How WHHC has impacted me: Back in 2021 I contacted WHHC to be considered for a Hunt. I was contacted by Matt Houston and I was selected to go on a Turkey Hunt in Pa at the Kelly Ranch. When i arrived I was met by Anthony Gray who then took me to the Kelly ranch. I met Jeffry Kelly the owner of the farm and is also on the Board of Directors of WHHC. I felt as if I was part of a family and this made a never forgetting impression on me. Being retired I have lots of time on my hands and now I am part of this fine organization in efforts to help other Veteran Heroes.
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How WHHC has impacted me: In 2014, I was contacted by WHHC and they offered me an all-expense paid trip for Trophy Whitetail in Illinois. This was my very first real hunt post injury and it meant the world to me. WHHC in my opinion went above and beyond to make sure my time spent in the woods was the very best possible. I harvested a very nice doe and it changed my outlook on hunting and life in general. That hunt made me realize that hunting and being surrounded by other Combat Injured Veterans is the best therapy for me, I now hunt or go fishing at least 4 times a month or as the season allows.
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How WHHC has impacted me: In 2017 I was contacted by WHHC Pro Staffer Chris Rupp. He asked if I was interested in attending a rock fishing trip. I provided the needed documentation and Chris was more than just a Pro Staff, he was like a brother. We stayed in touch talking about whatever. What I liked the most was I was also invited to other events right off the bat and I was allowed to bring a Battle Buddy. It is like they knew how I must feel going into a room full of strangers with severe anxiety and such. When I arrived at the first event, I felt a warm welcome and knew I could be myself. On the fishing trip I made a lot of new brothers and we shared stories only those who have faced the same issues can relate to. I am honored to be a part of the WHHC family! Chris Rupp and the WHHC inspired me so much, I have volunteered for another group that is closer to me in Virginia. Wish there was a Virginia chapter.
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How WHHC has impacted me: I was fortunate to have attended a goose hunt with the WHHC in the end of 2016. Being in the outdoors and around other vets that have experienced some of the same things I have is the best “therapy” I could ever receive. The people that donate their time and money for events for the vets are truly the medicine we need. When we go to a hospital or therapy office, it is a medicinal setting; we are not as willing to discuss what is really happening or is on our minds. Change the setting to a forest, a cabin, a fire pit, good food, etc. and you begin to hear stories unfold which brings on laughter, friendship, and maybe even much needed pause for thought. At that point we begin to feel like others “get it” how things became in our lives, the good, the bad, and even the ugly; and yet we are all thrilled to be alive and are grateful for each day.
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How WHHC has impacted me: I was contacted by Chris Rupp to go on a snow goose hunt in Dover, Delaware. Chris and the WHHC went above and beyond to make this hunt a special experience for me. Food and beverage was provided along with plenty of ammo. This hunt was relaxing and provided me with some needed time to be around other combat veterans and just talk and be myself. I am forever grateful to the WHHC for this experience.
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