This week was an amazing opportunity for me. I have been wanting to try woodturning for five or six years, but this was the first time for me. Having the chance to learn the skill from such experienced craftsmen has been the opportunity of a lifetime for me. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for this opportunity and for your effort and generosity in establishing and running this event. This sort of thing is more important than you know for guys like me.

A. Cook, US Army, Purple Heart recipient

I am beyond grateful for this opportunity. I learned, laughed, and connected with other vets and hunters. I pray to participate again in future events. I became more confident in my hunting. A memory I will cherish forever.

G. Quintero, US Army, Purple Heart recipient

Thank you all for such an amazing weekend. This trip could not have come at a better time for me. Life lately has been rough and the stress and anxiety have been almost unbearable at times. Being able to come to Ohio for four days has been an amazing re-set for me. I look forward to going home with a clear head. The hunting was tough, but the guides, cooks, and volunteers were amazing. I can’t say thank you enough for this short break from real life and being able to be stress-free.

R. Ryker, US Army, Purple Heart recipient

This was my first WWIA hunt. I am grateful and thankful for the opportunity, experience, and memories. It is something I will never forget and will cherish. The guys were awesome, and a tight brotherhood was formed from everyone involved.

Z. Rice, USMC, Purple Heart recipient

I am thankful and grateful for this experience and the memories I will never forget.

J. White, US Army, Purple Heart recipient

I truly appreciate all you’ve done for me and my brothers with this memorable experience. Thank you for all the planning, coordination, and most importantly your genuine appreciation for our military. I did not join the service expecting anything in return. I joined for my love of country, God, Corp, and the opportunities that I have been granted by the great USA. I live by a phrase “I am grateful for having gratitude, and I am glad to be here” thank you for making me feel like part of your family. Thank you for sharing all your stories, knowledge, and passion for the hunting culture. This was my first time doing a duck hunt, I cannot ask for a better experience. I had a lot of goosebumps, laughter, wow, moments, and deep appreciation for every single one of you. Thank you!

L. Ortiz, USMC, Purple Heart recipient

Thank you for the great week of shooting and catching. The fellowship and brotherhood was second to none. The best event I’ve been to so far. Thanks to everyone who helped with the food, fellowship, and ducks.

J. Brock, US Army, Purple Heart recipient

When I signed up for this event, I had only a small idea of what to expect. This event from start to finish has been absolutely exceptional and far exceeded my expectations. The escort in was one of the most honorable things I have experienced. The love, compassion, and care we received from the communities between the two states was amazing. During this trip, I harvested my first duck, and ended up, limiting out on blue bills on both days. I also went on my first chartered fishing trip and caught a nice sized Yellowfin Tuna. I have cherished every minute of this trip. I enjoyed sharing war stories with my fellow Purple Heart recipients, and being able to share my experiences and struggles has helped me cope with the losses of my fellow brothers. Thank you to each and every one of you for everything that you do for the veterans in the Purple Heart community.

D. Booth, US Army, Purple Heart recipient

I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the fine men and women who contributed their time and effort to making this event possible. It is easy in this day and age to become jaded and to feel isolated in society as it exists today. Having had the privilege to meet and enjoy the hospitality and kindness of the host of the OBX event and the patriotic citizens of this community has refreshed and restored my faith in the character of the heart of our nation. Thank you for caring so much, for putting in so much effort, and for being examples of the very best our country has to offer. I’ve truly had a wonderful experience that will live permanently amongst my best memories. With deepest gratitude.

A. Cook, US Army, Purple Heart recipient

What a wonderful event! Thank you to everyone that took part in the planning and execution. There has been so much love shown to all of us. I so enjoyed sitting with Mr. Winslow and chatting about past hunts and trips while learning new waterfowling techniques. It was like sitting with my father and grandfather at the same time. Being able to spend time with each of the volunteers and talking about anything and everything was so needed for me. The fishing trip was a great day. Even through the rough seas we were able to bond and share life with each other. That is a time that I will cherish forever. The food was amazing and very much appreciated. This event came at a time when I truly needed time to step back from life’s challenges and gave me the ability to re-engage with clarity and peace. Thank You Wounded Warriors in Action for everything you do for everyone

T. Parker, US Army, Purple Heart recipient