Thank you so very much for letting me have this opportunity with WWIA. This was a great getaway in my life and the veterans that I hung out with were super great and made me feel meaningful in this life. It was a good therapy and a very good time hunting turkey. Even though we didn’t get any, I still love the meditation that it brought me

Z. Jensen, USMC, Purple Heart Recipient

This is my second year to have the privilege to come to the Truxton event. When I received the call with only a days’ notice, it was not even a second thought. It was a yes. The chance to come back again to see all these wonderful and amazing people again. The chance to connect with other vets and gather to see how they feel. One of the men I had the privilege to meet was James. His heart is in all when it comes to turkey hunting. I learned many things from him about turkey hunting. The other vet I met on this trip was also our guide, his name is Roy. Roy is full of knowledge. I learned some things just listening to him talk. Getting the chance to come back to this event filled my heart with more joy than you can imagine. All of us were able to get a turkey and sharing the time in the woods with these men was a blast. Lots of laughs, some tears. Now this event is always going to be a special memory. Not only were we all able to get a bird, but it was their third time hosting this event with three Warriors each time and the chance to share it with them means the world to me. Looking forward to coming back in the future to hunt with Roy and his son alongside my extended family here in Truxton.

N. Gibbs, US Army, Purple Heart Recipient

This trip was amazing. This is my first event with WWIA and also this was my Guides first event as a Guide. I could not have asked for a better time because we had the best. Roy Holland is an amazing guide, but more so an amazing person. I felt that if there was anything I needed that wasn’t already provided for me, he would move mountains to get me what I needed. The event was the greatest, we had amazing Hosts that took care of anything that we needed or wanted. The food was so delicious. We had home-cooked meals at the cabin and Trent’s parents invited us to their home for a home cooked meal that made me feel at home. The Hosts and their guides were so knowledgeable and did above and beyond to make sure that all three of us went home with turkey and trout. The lodging that we stayed in was top-notch, comfortable, and they made you feel like home and made you feel welcome and safe. I made so many friends here that I will stay in contact with because they were amazing. Hands-down one of the best experiences I have ever had.

J. Bousfield, US Army, Purple Heart Recipient

Thank you to everyone at WWIA and the Hosts and guides in Rural Valley, PA. The entire trip was amazing from start to finish, and I felt at home with friends the whole time. The hospitality was truly felt, and I am eternally grateful for the opportunity. I appreciate everyone that made this week of turkey hunting, trout fishing, and good eating possible. Thank you so much.

A. Harkin, US Army, Purple Heart Recipient

It was an amazing event, despite harsh, cold, rainy weather, all Warriors were astonished and happy with the pace and flexibility of this event. It always astonishes me how quickly service members connect, if not by the first night of meeting for the first time, the second day. This event allowed Warriors to harvest tom turkeys and expand their accomplishments in Woodturning, some of us never thought we’d be able to do. The beautiful and functioning slate calls were surpassed only by the plates, rolling pins, mushrooms and all other projects that were done. All Warriors were greatly in need of a respite from life. This event provided not only that break, but also provided the energy and clear thinking to attack our every day lives and issues. Outstanding and well-organized event, I can’t thank everyone enough.

J. French, US Army, Purple Heart Recipient

I have been retired for 10 years and it will always humble me that people invite us into their homes to show their support. There is a huge disconnect in America today with the military but people like you all renew my faith. I didn’t get a large forest chicken, but had an awesome weekend anyway. Thank you once again.

S. Carey, US Army, Purple Heart Recipient

This trip was very meaningful for me. Right before the invitation to come, I was telling people I felt like the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan were fading from America’s collective memory. WWIA showed me that wasn’t the case. I got to harvest a turkey on this trip, something I hadn’t done in the last 20 years. This experience was made more special by our amazing guides, gracious hosts, and fellow veterans. Their camaraderie and support meant a lot to me. We also got to venture into Woodturning, a craft completely new to me. This unexpected gift was not just about learning to shape wood, but also shaping my sense of capability and creativity. The warmth and kindness of everyone involved was amazing. They welcomed us like family! Thank you to everyone who made this possible, it was a much needed reminder of the beauty of both nature and human kindness.

M. Brown, US Army, Purple Heart Recipient

These past few days have been awesome. It is very rare for me to be able to relate with people, so when I am around like-minded people, I am finally able to drop my guard. The people are great here with WWIA. The hunt was great and talking with other veterans with the same thoughts was great. I see myself in everyone who is here. I am greatly honored to be part of this event. I really needed to be around people like this. The compassion and kindness shown is remarkable. I can’t say thank you enough.

J. Juarez, USMC, Purple Heart Recipient

Thank you for giving me the opportunity to attend one of the WWIA hunts and hopefully I will have another opportunity to attend a hunt again. The hunt was amazing and 100% well organized and it couldn’t have been any better. The fellow veterans (brothers) and guides were tons of fun. I felt like I’ve known them all my life. I did not tag out but I had a great time and hunt and the memories I made will last a lifetime and new friendships will last forever. Once again, thank you to all who made it possible and to WWIA.

C. Romero, USMC, Purple Heart Recipient.

Thank you to everyone who had a hand in making this amazing dream a reality. WWIA and all its partners and affiliate set the standard as the most professional yet fun organization I have ever had the privilege to be associated with. From the hunt to the brotherhood and fellowship to the wonderful food with some of the best folks I have ever met. I am unbelievably grateful for this opportunity, and for my first ever turkey harvest! Thank you all from the bottom of my heart. I will never forget any of this or any of you! Eternally thankful.

J. Estevez, US Army, Purple Heart Recipient.