R. Mestas

Purple Heart Recipient
Hunting

2021

Military Branch: USMC

Event Name: MoKan Ducks, Bucks and Trapping Event

Thank you so much for everything your organization is doing for the veterans. This has been one of the greatest trips I have been on. I am usually pretty tense and feel nervous in crowds or with large groups of people. But, from the moment I was picked up from the airport, to the last night of hunting, everybody here was going out of their way to ensure that I was comfortable and was enjoying myself. The first day I arrived I could feel my body relaxing and my shoulders dropping. I just realized how tightly wound up I have been. I also realized that it is possible for me to still be able to be relaxed and comfortable around new people. Now when I return home, I am going to try to keep this new feeling with me and start leaving my comfort zone more. I really want to thank you for that. Being surrounded by so many positive and great people has had a great impact on me. You guys are not just talking the talk, you are making huge impacts in combat vets lives. Thank you so much for what WWIA is doing.