I am always humbled by the regular Americans like yourselves willing to drop everything for us. I can’t thank you enough for everything and such a wonderful time. Your hospitality does not go unnoticed.

T. Hosfelt, US Army
Purple Heart Recipient

To all the staff at WWIA, thank you for the chance to go on another hunt and meet so many great people. I am very grateful for everyone I met on the trip. To the Hosts Shelley and Dennis, thank you for opening your home and having us here for the hunt. The food was great, and all the volunteers were great. Thank you for all you guys do.

G. Brazinsky, US Army
Purple Heart Recipient

This has been one of my best times this year. I shot my first bird. I am so thankful for everything. Everyone on this trip was awesome. Once again, thank you.

J. Juarez, USMC
Purple Heart Recipient

This has been an absolute joy. I’ve been able to experience a moment where I could interact with others who have shared similar experiences. It has been a place of refuge at a time when I needed it the most. Each guide was very knowledgeable and experienced. They were able to bring the knowledge to us through their expertise. I feel each civilian could possibly learn or have a quick brief on what to ask and not to ask wounded vets. Other than that, what a joy.

L. Cureton, US Army
Purple Heart Recipient

I absolutely loved this event. The guides and hunt club members are truly one of a kind. They made me feel like a member of their family and I couldn’t have asked for a better group of people to hunt with. This has jump started my thirst and passion for turkey hunting. Great event.

P. Abel, US Army
Purple Heart Recipient

When you have PTSD, it is like having a giant albatross hanging around your neck. The weight you carry becomes a burden not only to you but all the people around you. Think of it like a bottle that starts the day off already half full. It leaves little room to cope with anything by the end of the day. Your family is left with whatever has not already been filled up. Guilt, shame, regret, anger, sadness, and moral injury are just some of the big emotions that fill that bottle and are difficult to unpack every day. PTSD isn’t something that can be seen. It is very real and very destructive, just like someone with high blood pressure can live their life untreated, PTSD can be a ticking time bomb waiting to go off. Unlike a lot of physical wounds, mental health wounds can significantly affect the lives of those around you. Even if you go to a doctor and get treated, the anger, hurt and resentment from damaged relationships often doesn’t get addressed or acknowledged. It was important to me to find some time away from all the stress and noise and pain of everyday life. Time to empty the bottle, to reset. Not everyone can buy a bunch of gear, jump on a plane, drop their life and have somewhere to think, relax and feel. That is where WWIA comes in. By providing this opportunity to relax, reset and to not have to wake up already in a deficit has been invaluable. The woods, the water, the lack of distractions has allowed me to hit the reset button. Time to think and heal. The men up here are amazing. If you need to be left alone, they let you be. You don’t have to explain anything, just clear your head. The guide’s knowledge was second to none. Their kindness and eagerness for you to do well on your hunt is amazing. I enjoyed everything. The accommodations, the people, the rush of taking home a bird and the relaxation of fishing. It can’t be described. I will always remember this experience and can’t describe how much I needed this when I didn’t even know what I needed. Thank you all for everything.

K. Simandl, US Army
Purple Heart Recipient

This was a great thing for me, it helped me relax and to feel like a brand-new person. I also felt very welcomed by all the instructors that helped me while I was turning my work. I can’t wait to do this again. It is a great thing that Tony has going on here and I think more veterans should do this. Thank you for everything and keep up all the good work.

M. Engel, US Army
Purple Heart Recipient

I look forward to this event every year! The time spent here with Tony and the other vets is relaxing and fun. I learn something new every time I come. Thank you so much for the wonderful time I have had.

J. Chance, USMC
Purple Heart Recipient

This was so much fun, to be able to work with my hands again and make things has been special. Everyone was very helpful. I haven’t done anything like this in 40 years. I would like to thank everyone that set this event up and Tony for everything.

K. Johnson, US Army
Purple Heart Recipient

From the moment I arrived I was welcomed with open arms and encouraged to relax and enjoy myself. I could feel the stress leave and as I got to know Andy, Bill, Joe and Buddy I felt at home the entire time. I was hopeful that I would mesh with my fellow Purple Heart buddies, and I really enjoyed getting to know Andrew and James as the weekend progressed and the light kidding and banter started with each other. I spent a lot of time with each person there and know that I have found lifelong friends that I can count on. I also spent a lot of time with Mr. Buddy, who taught me a lot of about living on the river and swamp. It was a pleasure getting to know everyone and forming friendships that I hope to revisit soon. I can’t say thank you enough to Andy and his family and friends for hosting us and taking us in for the long weekend. I also want to thank WWIA staff for setting up such a great opportunity to relax and get to know other fellow Purple Heart awardees and hear their stories.

J. Moon, US Army
Purple Heart Recipient