Wounded Warrior Project Veterans Connect During Night of Bowfishing

BELTON, Texas, March 15, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Catching fish can be challenging, especially with a bow and arrow. Even more difficult is trying to do it at night. Injured veterans discovered that during a recent Wounded Warrior Project^® (WWP) bowfishing event. As they attempted the unusual outdoor activity, warriors experienced the benefits of connecting with fellow service members in their communities.

Warriors arrived armed with bows and flood lights. They took to the water in search of Belton Lake fauna, including longnose gar, sunfish, crappie, and largemouth bass. Driven by the excitement of a new sport and making several catches, the group did not return to shore until almost midnight.

"Going into this event, I didn't know any of the warriors, and yes that did make me a bit nervous," said Army veteran Luke Morgan. "But I couldn't resist the chance to go bowfishing. I am definitely glad I went. Building relationships with other warriors helps us feel less alone throughout our recoveries."   

These connection activities support the recovery needs of warriors by reintroducing them to the bonds experienced during military service. In a WWP survey of the injured warriors it serves, more than half of survey respondents (51.7 percent) talked with fellow veterans to address their mental health issues.

"Bowfishing was something I had never done before, so I decided to give it a try," said Army veteran Douglas Shreve. "We had a blast; it was one of the best Wounded Warrior Project experiences I've ever had. And I got to spend time with other veterans in a comfortable environment." 

Before getting out on the water, WWP staff members advised attendees of additional services to aid their recovery processes. WWP offers programs that assist injured veterans with mental health, physical health and wellness, career and benefits counseling, and connecting with other warriors and their communities. Generous donors make it possible for wounded warriors to benefit from program resources at no cost to them.

To learn and see more about how WWP's programs and services connect, serve, and empower wounded warriors, visit https://newsroom.woundedwarriorproject.org/.

About Wounded Warrior Project
Wounded Warrior Project^® (WWP) connects, serves, and empowers wounded warriors. 

SOURCE Wounded Warrior Project