15th Annual North Carolina OBX Fins & Feathers

7-11 January 2026

Currituck Sound, NC

Five of our Heroes traveled to the Outer Banks of North Carolina for some world-class waterfowl hunting, fishing, great food, and bonding time with their fellow Purple Heart recipients. Celebrating thirteen years of honoring our Heroes, this event encapsulates how a community can come together to serve and give back to those who have given so much on our behalf.

This was evidenced by the tremendous outpouring of appreciation and gratitude shown to our Heroes throughout their stay. An example of this remarkable community involvement was shown as our Heroes arrived in Currituck, as the NC Patriot Guard, Currituck County Sheriff, Currituck County Fire Department,  a local Jeep club, and hundreds of members of the local community gathered to welcome, honor and show their appreciation for our Heroes. They were given a large and memorable escort through town as members of the local community lined the streets, waving flags, holding up signs, applauding, cheering, and expressing their appreciation to our Heroes for their tremendous service and sacrifice. It was an incredible way to begin this memorable event and our Heroes were moved by the outpouring of care and the displays of gratitude and patriotism from this remarkable community.

The accommodations, food, and hospitality extended to our Heroes could not have been better. Our Heroes had an extraordinary time in the field hunting and harvesting ducks. They also had a great time on the water fishing for tuna courtesy of Hitman Sportfishing. One bluefin tuna was successfully harvested, measuring approximately 72 inches and weighing 212 pounds. Our Heroes also had the opportunity to take a guided wild horse tour in Corolla Beach. Dozens of horses were spotted and the Heroes loved being able to experience something so unique on their excursion to North Carolina. As great as the hunting and fishing were, our combat-wounded Warriors appreciated the outstanding camaraderie, stories, laughter, and friendships made throughout the course of this event. This was unquestionably the highlight for everyone involved. We would like to express our appreciation to all the stellar local businesses, restaurants, and community members that graciously served and honored our Heroes throughout their stay. Special thanks to Hosts Larry Beasley, Tim Brown, and Tim Spence for putting on another world-class event for our Heroes, to Brook Sparks for her fantastic coordination and support year after year, to the Kavanaugh’s for their hospitality, to Chef Wes Stepp (NC Coast Grill & Bar) and his team for their culinary masterpieces, and Holly’s Creative Confections. Recognition and thanks to WWIA Guide, Nick Fox, and WWIA Lead Associate, Tony Smith, for their contributions and care throughout the event.