WWIA Sends Purple Heart Recipients to Fish in Alaska
Wounded Warriors in Action Foundation (WWIA) is sending four Purple Heart recipients on an all-expense-paid fishing trip in Seward, Alaska from June 10-14. Hosted by John Moline of INN and OUT Charters, along with Kenai Fjords Bed & Breakfast, this 3rd annual trip will include three full days of guided fishing and sightseeing.
Hooking that big fish and spending the week in the Great Outdoors helps these veterans achieve a level of satisfaction and achievement that has often been missing from their lives. While the catch can be exciting, the main event on this trip is the opportunity to connect with other Purple Heart recipients and be enveloped in the warmth of a thankful and caring community.
Heroes fishing in Alaska
One Hero on last year’s event said, “I want to say thank WWIA for a wonderful opportunity to get away from the everyday struggles of dealing with the scars of war. Our group was small, but was very intimate. It was nice to have a trip leader who also knows the struggles. I appreciate that this did not feel like a dog-and-pony show, it felt like the only agenda was for us to enjoy time with people like us in the outdoors. I have made friends for life.”
Wounded Warriors frequently return home different than when they left to serve our nation; their personal and professional lives have changed dramatically. WWIA and hosts like Moline strive to show these Heroes that they can still experience and accomplish great things, no matter their current circumstances.
After last year’s event, Host Moline said, “It was a pleasure to offer a few days of fishing, whale watching, glaciers, otters, birds, and dragging up the ‘biggest fish ever’ to a few men who’ve sacrificed so much. Thanks to WWIA for the opportunity to offer this trip again.”
Critical to the healing process, whether from traumatic brain injury, permanent limb disability or post- traumatic stress disorder, these events bolster self-confidence while strengthening the bond with nature, local communities and other Purple Heart veterans. Each WWIA event serves 3-5 Heroes and lasts at least 2-3 full days, allowing for optimal bonding, brotherhood and camaraderie.