5th Annual Truxton Turkey and Trout

May 14-18

Truxton, New York

Two Purple Heart Heroes traveled to Truxton, New York for the 5th Annual Truxton Turkey and Trout event. Upon arriving at the cabin, Heroes Raul and Andrew were warmly welcomed by Host Trent McCall and the event guides and supporters. Everyone enjoyed dinner together, got acquainted, and discussed plans for the following morning’s turkey hunt before settling in for the evening.

The Heroes headed into the field with their guides early the next morning in pursuit of spring turkey. It proved to be a memorable first hunt as Raul successfully harvested a beautiful mature Tom with his guide, Josh. After returning to the cabin for lunch and some well-deserved rest, the afternoon shifted from the woods to the water. A representative from Cortland Line graciously presented each Hero with their own fly rod and reel combo and provided instruction on the fundamentals of fly fishing. The Heroes then put their new skills to work at the cabin pond, where they enjoyed catching trout in a relaxing and laid-back setting. The evening concluded with a wonderful fish dinner and dessert at Poole’s Diner, courtesy of Laurie and Ed Poole.

The following morning brought another opportunity to hunt turkey. Although the Heroes saw birds throughout the morning, none presented the right opportunity for a harvest. They returned to the pond that afternoon for more fly fishing before gathering for a special dinner at Trent’s parents’ home. Their gracious hospitality and warm welcome created an intimate, family atmosphere that made the evening especially meaningful.

The Heroes returned to the woods for another morning hunt on their final full day before once again enjoying some time fishing that afternoon. That evening, community supporters and friends gathered at the cabin for a cookout featuring an incredible spread of ribeye steaks, shrimp, and plenty of great food. The Heroes and longtime supporters of the event were recognized with coins, and everyone enjoyed one final evening of fellowship, conversation, and camaraderie. Andrew made one last effort for a turkey the following morning before everyone said their goodbyes and headed home.

Special recognition and sincere thanks to Hosts Trent McCall and family, and to Ed and Laurie Poole for their hospitality and care of our Heroes. Additional thanks to the outstanding guides, families, community supporters, and friends whose tremendous hospitality made the 5th Truxton Turkey and Trout such a memorable experience for our combat-wounded Veterans. Additional gratitude and appreciation to WWIA Guide Matthew Brannon for his outstanding leadership and support throughout the event, to Cortland Line for generously providing the Heroes with fly-fishing equipment.

“This is my first trip with WWIA. From day one I was treated like family. This event has reminded me of how powerful healing is through the military brotherhood. This trip and the family environment the hosts and guides provided has brought color back to my sunrises and sunsets. I have a fresh clean sheet of paper that I can put some old traumatic memories on and cast them away. Thank you to everyone for this amazing new start. Such a wonderful heart. God bless you all. First turkey kill!”

– Raul G., US Army
Purple Heart Recipient