04 – Testimonials - Wounded Warriors in Action Foundation

“The time I spent on this event felt like a miracle. Since my time in the Army, I have never felt more at home (other than being home). The only time in years I haven’t felt out of place or a burden. It was good for the soul to connect with people who I felt truly cared for me. I cannot thank you all enough.”

Garth C.

Purple Heart Recipient

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2026

Great group of guys, lots of laughs, rain, reeling up fish, antics, and friendships made. Proud to be a continuing Host. J. Moline, Current Affair Charters, Host

J. Moline,

US Navy

Host

Event Name:

Alaska Halibut Fishing

Fishing

2026

After being an Associate/Guide for WWIA for 11 years, I’ve helped with so many incredible events, met some phenomenal people, and bonded with so many other Wounded Warriors. To date this year’s WWIA halibut fishing event in Seward, Alaska is near the very top of all of them. This was a fantastic event when I helped in 2016 and it’s become one of WWIA’s premier events. The Warriors clicked as soon as they arrived at the airport with Espirit De Corps and camaraderie being the highest I’ve experienced. When you add in Captain John Moline (Navy) and Wes Oetinger (USMC) everything was multiplied. The jokes, laughing, serious talks, and companionship, and absolute true brotherhood solidified. Add in Alaska’s beauty, animals, fishing, and culture and well it was perfect despite any adverse weather conditions mother nature threw at us. The knowledge passed along by Captain John and River guide, Wes will remain with us for the rest of our lives, as well as the friendships made. Seriously can’t thank WWIA, Corrina, John McDaniel, Captain John Moline, Wes Oetinger, Seward Legion Post 5, and an incredible Seward community for the lifelong impact they facilitate. With the upmost, appreciation and respect. J. French, US Army, Purple Heart recipient

J. French,

US Army

Associate

Purple Heart Recipient

Event Name:

Alaska Halibut Fishing

Fishing

2026

All I can say about our trip as wow! I had such a great time. It has been way too long since I actually felt like I could relax and have fun. This was my first time in Alaska, and it was amazing. Everyone was just amazing. I can honestly say I felt the love from everyone. It was amazing hanging out with people who understand me. It reminded me that I’m not alone, that there are other people that are going through the same thing I am. I see them being successful and it gives me hope that everything is going to be OK. I have always looked for peace and I found it here. I was able to relax a little and just enjoy the moment. Thank you for everything. J. Gonzalez, USMC, Purple Heart recipient

J. Gonzalez,

USMC

Purple Heart Recipient

Event Name:

Alaska Halibut Fishing

Fishing

2026

What a trip, Captain John and Frenchie did an amazing job. Lots of firsts for me. First time in Alaska, the scale of everything here really makes you appreciate how fortunate we are to be in this country, have the things we have, and how small of a footprint we take up. First trip with WWIA, wow! Fishing was great, Captain John and Frenchie did an amazing job and worked their butts off. The flights, accommodations, and my God, the food was amazing! First time using a fly rod, fishing saltwater, or fishing a river, (won’t be the last). On a very personal level this is one of the first if not the only time I have really felt at peace in 30 years. I have no words, as I tear up. Thank you all. R. Hooker, US Air Force, Purple Heart recipient

R. Hooker,

US Air Force

Purple Heart Recipient

Event Name:

Alaska Halibut Fishing

Fishing

2026

I would like to thank all the members of the WWIA team, especially Mrs. Corrina, and Current Affair Charters. Special shout out to Captain John Moline. Everyone went out of their way to make the trip the best that it could have been even through flight delays and inclement weather. Once here it was awe inspiring natural beauty and nonstop action. I was teamed up with an awesome group of guys, and I was able to just let my guard down and enjoy myself and their company. Captain John was also awesome and went the extra mile to make sure that the trip was safe, fun, relaxing “ish” as we were so busy doing things there wasn’t much downtime. This program is one of the best things out there. WWIA is one of those things that really helps restore your faith in humanity, which is a true treasure to find. So, from the bottom of my heart, thank you W. Gibson, US Army, Purple Heart recipient

W. Gibson,

US Army

Purple Heart Recipient

Event Name:

Alaska Halibut Fishing

Fishing

2026

First off, I would like to thank WWIA, Corrina, Frenchie, John Moline, Seward American Legion, Wes Oetinger, and all the guys who attended this event. Even before we arrived, the attention to detail was great. We had some time and explored the area around the airport while waiting for one of the vets to land. The drive to Seward was filled with beautiful scenery and great conversation. Turns out I was pheasant hunting with Jon this past March. We laughed and joked all the way to Seward; the views were amazing. From the moment we got to Johns it was first class. The views are like nothing I’ve ever seen. The camaraderie was instant, and there is a level of calm, knowing that everyone here has gone through a similar life-changing event and made it through. The food, starting with steak dinner at the Legion, homemade biscuits and gravy, and fish 10 different ways, each uniquely delicious in its own way. We spent lots of time on the rivers, catching salmon and despite rough seas, we caught rockfish cod, and 8 halibut. I’ve never been to Alaska, but I’ll be back someday with my family. Thank you. J. Peterson US Army, Purple Heart recipient

J. Peterson,

US Army

Purple Heart Recipient

Event Name:

Alaska Halibut Fishing

Fishing

2026

Thank you so much for the absolute fishing trip of a lifetime! Roy was amazing as a guide and really added to this incredible experience. It was also so nice to meet Dan who was awesome. I am grateful to add two new Purple Heart brothers to the family… and the fishing was just a bonus! The host, Scott is a great American, who was so kind to us that I will never forget this experience. The fishing was epic! So much better having the honor to do it with some American heroes and some world class civilians. On a scale from 1-10 I’d rate this trip a 300. Thank you so much for everything. I am so grateful for the opportunity to make so many great memories that will last a lifetime. K. Power, US Army, Purple Heart recipient

K. Power,

US Army

Purple Heart Recipient

Event Name:

Montauk Fishing

Fishing

2026

My Montauk fishing trip with WWIA was an absolutely incredible experience. Scott, Brian, Jim and Ben made us feel so welcome and put us on some amazing fish. They treated us to some fantastic meals and cooked us breakfast to simply ensure everyone had an unforgettable time. They went above and beyond in every way. Scott opened his home to us and made it feel like our own. I can never fully express my gratitude to him and the rest of the team for everything they did. Their generosity, hospitality, and dedication made this trip truly special. Roy and Kurt, the other warriors on the trip, were equally incredible. We clicked instantly and there was never a dull moment. We shared stories, laughs, and experiences that created a bond I’ll never forget. I know I’ve made friends for life. I cannot say enough about this amazing event and the outstanding organization that made it all possible. Thank you for an experience I’ll carry with me for the rest of my life. D. Teel, USMC, Purple Heart recipient

D. Teel,

USMC

Purple Heart Recipient

Event Name:

Montauk Fishing

Fishing

2026

First time catfishing and it was absolutely amazing. Great people and fantastic food. I caught a 60-pound flathead catfish. Such a privilege to be able to participate in these events. J. Rae, US Air Force, Purple Heart recipient

J. Rae,

US Air Force

Purple Heart Recipient

Event Name:

MoKan Catfishing

Fishing

2026

I really want to thank everyone who put in the work and organized this event. It was first class. I had never been catfishing before and had never eaten catfish. The fishing was amazing. The guides were seriously the best. Everyone was over the top welcoming. I don’t leave the house often, so getting on the river was a refreshing change of pace and being around other men that can relate to your… stuff. Food was over the top, I felt like a rock star. The organization of travel and communication made everything feel stress-free. A huge thank you to everyone. S. Solie, US Army, Purple Heart recipient

S. Solie,

US Army

Purple Heart Recipient

Event Name:

MoKan Catfishing

Fishing

2026

I was thrilled to receive a last-minute invitation to join the Wounded Warriors in Action (WWIA) fishing trip hosted by MoKan after a cancellation opened up a spot. I was only able to fish for two days, but it was an outstanding experience. The camaraderie and great fishing made it truly memorable. I had a blast and even caught some nice fish! A huge thank you to the entire MoKan team for the warm welcome-back, the excellent organization, and the delicious food throughout the trip. It meant a lot to be included, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to connect with fellow veterans in a relaxing and rewarding way. Highly recommended! S. Fisher, USMC, Purple Heart recipient

S. Fisher,

USMC

Purple Heart Recipient

Event Name:

MoKan Catfishing

Fishing

2026

Walleye is among my top three fish I love to eat. I received a call from Corrina from the WWIA, and she wanted to know if I wanted to attend this event in Ohio, I said oh gosh, walleye (would I)! Then we had an unforeseen death in our family, and I felt I shouldn’t leave my husband, but he told me to go and just cut the trip short. I’m glad I listened to him. What an amazing reception from Vermillion VFW, VFW Motorcycle Club, and the Sons of Legion who made us quilts. We were paraded through town like honorary guests. I have not been so welcomed and felt so much pride in this country for a very long time. The country I fought for and would gladly fight for again. Your staff are just amazing, you made us feel comfortable and loved and if you leave here hungry or thirsty, then it’s your own fault. I want to share with the next group that fishes this event, the Friday night fishing was because of me. We went casting at night and Virgil said, “you know what, I think I’m going to add this to our fishing event, a Friday night fish for those who want to”. So, you’re welcome. C. Cockerell, US Army, Purple Heart recipient

C. Cockerell,

US Army

Purple Heart Recipient

Event Name:

OH Freemasons Lake Erie Walleye

Fishing