4th Annual Alabama Turkey Hunt
| April 8-12 Boaz, Alabama The residents and businesses of Boaz, Alabama proudly welcomed four of our combat-wounded Warriors for the 4th Annual Alabama Turkey Hunt. After our Heroes arrived at camp and got settled into their accommodations, they were given a weapon familiarization briefing and discussed the expectations for the hunt and the event. A delicious dinner was enjoyed by all at a local buffet called Beans and Greens. The rest of the evening our Heroes sat around the campfire and got to know each other and were also paired up with their guides for the next morning. Everyone turned in early in anticipation of the upcoming hunt. After an early rise and good breakfast, everyone headed out to their respective spots with their guides and success was found quickly as Hero Shaun harvested a beautiful turkey. There was a great deal of turkey activity, which helped build excitement for everyone. After a hearty lunch, they were back in the field in pursuit of those elusive birds and Hero Mitch was able to harvest a huge Tom. Other hens and a few jakes were seen, but nothing worth taking. Later that evening the turkeys were processed, everyone got cleaned up and went to dinner at a local steak house. Afterwards, everyone converged around the campfire and discussed plans for the next day before calling it a night. Another early morning as everyone hit the fields in search of Tom turkey and were all in position by 0530. Purple Heart Hero Jake ended up harvesting a nice Tom. Later in the afternoon, Hero Mitch harvested his second tom! After a long and enjoyable time in the field, it was time to relax and wind down with some grilled burgers and turkey nuggets. Everyone reminisced about their experiences, shared stories and laughs, and got some well-deserved rest after a wonderful day spent in Alabama. The Heroes headed out the next morning with eagerness for the last hunt of their trip. After patiently waiting for the right bird, Hero Ryan finally got his shot and harvested an awesome Tom. The time spent in the field throughout these five days was exceptional as they set a record with a total of 6 turkeys harvested over 3 days. In the afternoon, everyone attended a local golf tournament that was raising money for this event in the future. It was a treasured time of talking to the local community members and supporters, sharing stories, and being honored and welcomed. The evening ended with some live music and a catered dinner at the golf club as our Heroes relished the remarkable moments, camaraderie, and new friendships made during this life-changing excursion. Special recognition and thanks to Host Matt Brannon, and to all the incredible supporters, volunteers, donors, and friends who worked hard to make this opportunity possible for our combat-wounded Veterans. Additional gratitude and appreciation to WWIA Guide Jake Whipkey and Lead Associate Shaun Tichenor for their outstanding assistance and leadership throughout this event. “Absolutely amazing! I needed this trip more than I knew myself. Everyone was family! The brotherhood that was felt as soon as I arrived was something that I have been missing in my life since my service in the USAF ended. Thank you for lighting the fire inside me again.” – J. Allen, US Air Force Purple Heart Recipient “I’ve spent a lot of years chasing animals in a lot of places. What I have learned is the true trophy is not what you kill. It is the experience you will remember. This hunt was a once in a lifetime trophy. This did not feel like a wounded warrior hunt, this was a hunt with friends.“ – M. Adams, US Air Force Purple Heart Recipient |
