Army and Marine Purple Heart recipients recently came to Hohenwald to experience a time of connecting and healing at the 7th Annual DoubleCreek Turkey Hunt. This event, sponsored by Wounded Warriors in Action Foundation (WWIAF.org), was hosted by Dennis Reynolds and Shelley Cohen. With incredible support from this community, two birds were taken and these heroes had an opportunity to connect with a commonality of being wounded while serving.

These heroes were from NY, TN, AL, FL, and TX, one of whom had never turkey hunted prior to the event. We are thrilled to report that he got the first turkey – this experience was life-changing for him.

These Purple Heart veterans were from Iraq, Afghanistan, and Operation New Dawn initiatives - sustaining injuries that have had a life-long impact on their overall health and well-being. They are very appreciative of the volunteer guides and other community members that are integral to the success of these events.

Volunteer guides included Dan Thomas, Jared Hinson, Manny Moreton, Garrick Couch and Toby Adkins. Betty Hinson, Sharon Cox, Hilliard family, Liza Reynolds, Muletown Cookies and Amy Reynolds provided items for the meals. The use of side-by-side vehicles for the event was provided by Travis Hinson, Chris Holt, and Paul Rawdon.

Game Wardens Clint Newton and Jonas Cothran donated ice and joined the group for breakfast on the first day of the hunt.

This weekend of sportsmanship also offers a setting that encourages these heroes to connect with other Purple Heart recipients who understand the impact of being a wounded warrior.

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.

The support of the local community helps to ensure the success of these events and we extend a big thank you to our volunteer guides as well as those who helped with food preparation and sleeping arrangements. The Highland Corporation has generously donated funds toward hunting license fees, along with cases of bottled water. Family, friends, and co-workers also generously donated toward groceries and travel costs for the heroes.

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 Shelley Cohen at 931-801-2530.