[Melbourne, FL]— Wounded Warriors in Action Foundation (WWIA) is sending six Purple Heart recipients to Melbourne, FL, for their 8th Annual Florida Gator Hunt on August 19-21. On this all-expense-paid trip, hosted in part by the Brevard County Airboat Association, American Legion Riders Post #81, and their friends, these Wounded Warriors will hunt overnight on the St. Johns River from airboats.
The annual alligator hunt is one of WWIA’s most anticipated hunts due to the unusual challenges this type of stealth hunting offers. Harvesting a gator helps these veterans achieve a level of satisfaction and achievement that has often been missing from their lives. While the harvest can be exciting, the main event on this trip is the opportunity for Purple Heart recipients to connect with nature, communities who care, and each other.
WWIA Lead Associate and Purple Heart veteran, Pat Corcoran, says, “The alligator hunt is great for bonding with other Warriors. It’s all-weather, in the dark with primitive weapons and airboats, stalking, sneaking under the cover of darkness—that’s what we’re used to. Before even 24 hours on an event, these guys are fighting together as a team.”
In addition to the hunt itself, the Heroes down in Melbourne are met by a thankful and caring community of supporters. Brevard County Airboat Association, American Legion and American Legion Riders Post 81, Brevard Country Sherriff’s Department motorcade, Hollywood Limousine of Brevard County, Boy Scout Troop #365, and Operation Outdoor Freedom are all to thank for donating their services and welcoming the Heroes with open arms.
Critical to the healing process, whether from traumatic brain injury, permanent limb disability or post- traumatic stress disorder, these events bolster self-confidence while strengthening the bond with nature, local communities and other Purple Heart veterans. Each WWIA event serves small groups of Heroes and lasts at least 2-3 full days, allowing for optimal bonding, brotherhood and camaraderie.
ABOUT WWIA
Wounded Warriors in Action Foundation (WWIA) is a national non-profit dedicated to serving our nation’s combat wounded Purple Heart recipients by providing world-class outdoor sporting activities as a means to recognize and honor their sacrifice, encourage independence and connections with communities, and promote healing and wellness through camaraderie and a shared passion for the outdoors. For more information, please visit www.wwiaf.org, like us on Facebook at facebook.com/wwia or contact us at info@wwiaf.org.
Local Contact
Pat Corcoran
pcorcoran05@hotmail.com
(315) 440-6675