WWIA 2021 Rifle Hunt

By ShelleyCohen,

Associate Wounded Warriors in Action Foundation

Operation Iraqi Freedom (2003-2011) and Operation Enduring Freedom (2001-2014) may seem like a long time ago. However, to veterans of those conflicts who suffer the enduring physical and emotional effects of being wounded in action - there is no timeline. Then, consider if you will veterans of the Vietnam War which lasted almost 20 years and ended more than 45 years ago! These veterans walk by you every day, some you know and others you may never know. Regardless of the conflict they endured, or the years they fought in, we must never forget their sacrifices and accept the many with lifelong enduring physical and emotional pain.

This is the 8th year volunteers have come together from Lewis and other surrounding counties to host hunting events for Purple Heart recipients through Wounded Warriors in Action Foundation (www.wwiaf.org). Located at DoubleCreek in Hohenwald, we closed out 2021 with a very successful rifle deer hunt.

Heroes from MN, AR, GA, NC, and TX participated alongside volunteer guides who are the foundation of the success of this event. Our thanks go out to Jared Hinson, Toby Adkins, Cody Walter, Garrick Couch, and Logan White for providing support and their hunting expertise for the group. Highland Corporation supported the event with several cases of bottled water along with a cash donation toward the cost of hunting licenses.

There is no successful hunting event without great food, so thanks also go to Liza Mullen, Betty Hinson, Tammy Adkins, Lana Molnar and Amy Reynolds. Friends and family of DoubleCreek also donated funds toward groceries. The loan of side-by-side vehicles came from Travis Hinson, Paul Rawden, and Johnny Clayton. You can see how it truly takes a community to create a great hunting experience for these deserving heroes.

The hunting events we host for WWIAF.ORG are not about "getting a deer or turkey". What they are about is providing an opportunity for Purple Heart recipients to gather in a small, nonjudgmental environment. Being able to go back in time and share their military experiences and injuries is part of the path to healing. Many injuries have life-long consequences that are not visible to others – yet hold quite a grip on those bearing the brunt.

Sometimes, the solitude of a bench looking over a creek helps to put one's life back in perspective and without life's distractions-this in itself is also healing.

Some of the notes left behind by the participants reflects the impact these events have:

"This was the first time I went deer hunting and actually saw deer. I ended up getting a doe and an 8 point buck. This was an experience I will never forget, thank you."

"It is so refreshing to meet new people that have been through the same things as me. Thank you so much."

"The volunteer guides are awesome please tell them how much I appreciate them."

This is the 8th year Dennis Reynolds and Shelley Cohen of DoubleCreek have hosted hunting events for WWIA. It is the love of the outdoors, sportsmanship and the need to connect with other Warriors that is critical to the healing process. Whether it is traumatic brain injury, limb/back disability or post-traumatic stress disorder, or survivor's guilt - these events bolster self-confidence while strengthening a bond with nature and others.

A documentary featuring DoubleCreek and interviews with WWIA Purple Heart veterans who have benefited from these events is available for viewing at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5THSTdAK5LE

The Wounded Warriors in Action Foundation was founded in 2007 and is dedicated to serving our nation's combat wounded, Purple Heart recipients, by providing world-class outdoor sporting activities. This recognition of their sacrifice promotes healing and wellness through camaraderie and a shared passion for the outdoors.

Those interested in donating their time, funds, or other items, please contact Dennis Reynolds at 615-969-1078.