Honored American Veterans Afield Receives Donation from Smith & Wesson

Honored American Veterans Afield

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. --(Ammoland.com)- Honored American Veterans Afield (HAVA) today announced that it has been presented with a donation in the amount of $50,000 from Smith & Wesson Corp.

The company designated HAVA the beneficiary of ‘Vegas Night’, the highlight event at this year’s Smith & Wesson SHOT Show kickoff and customer appreciation party. Proceeds will benefit HAVA’s programs to support disabled veterans and wounded active duty military personnel. A check representing the donation was presented to Tom Taylor, Chairman of HAVA, by Smith & Wesson President and CEO, James Debney, at SHOT Show.

Attendees at this year’s customer appreciation event were treated to ‘Vegas Night’, an evening that included playing a variety of Las Vegas table games. Later in the evening, players could use their “winnings” to bid on a variety of Smith & Wesson donated products including a Thompson/Center Dimension rifle, a new product line launched at the event, a BODYGUARD pistol, a number of other Smith & Wesson firearms and several American Express gift cards.

In conjunction with the event, the company donated $50,000 to HAVA. The donation was supplemented with an additional, personal contribution made by Larry Massimo, Executive Vice President of Davidson’s.

“It is our privilege and great honor to support these true American heroes who have defended the freedom that we all cherish,” said Debney. “As a founding member and continuing sponsor of HAVA, we greatly appreciate the work this organization does to support these deserving Americans who have sacrificed so much on behalf of our nation and our citizenry.”

Taylor said, “Smith & Wesson has been in the forefront of HAVA’s development over the past five years, and overwhelmed us with this largest-ever donation to help with a greatly expanded warrior support program in 2012. These wounded warriors have given their full commitment to protecting freedom and the support of Smith & Wesson and numerous other shooting sports companies allows us to help them re-capture confidence in their future. HAVA represents the best instincts of our industry, and we welcome financial or in kind donations from all of its member companies who share our passion for serving these heroes who have given so much.”

About HAVA
HAVA is a 501[c]3 organization formed by companies in the shooting and outdoor industry with the purpose of raising awareness and further assisting disabled veterans with their healing process through guided hunts, shooting sports and other outdoor sports activities. The sustaining sponsor companies are Smith & Wesson, NSSF, Mossberg, Yamaha Outdoors, Crimson Trace, Leupold & Stevens, Surefire, Ho rnady, Ruger, XS Sights and FMG Publications among numerous contributing companies. Those who would like to learn more about the HAVA mission can do so at www.honoredveterans.org

Smith and Wesson

SPRINGFIELD, Mass.--(Ammoland.com)- Smith & Wesson Holding Corporation today announced that it will recognize graduates from the Massachusetts Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MassMEP) made available through the state’s Department of Veterans Services (DVS).

Offering military veterans employment opportunities, the DVS partnered with MassMEP and Smith & Wesson in order to provide training and certification for veterans in the workforce.

In a separate event, Smith & Wesson President and CEO James Debney, and Vice President of Human Resources William Lachenmeyer, will attend a special Veterans Day ceremony today, hosted by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

CEO James Debney, said, “During this time when our nation honors its veterans, we are especially proud to support the M.O.S.T. program, which expedites jobs for returning veterans who bring extensive skills and a heightened sense of community and leadership to our workforce. At the same time, we are truly honored to be included in the Commonwealth’s celebration and recognition on Veterans Day. We actively support a number of programs and sponsorships designed to acknowledge the contributions made by these men and women and we will continue to look at new ways to show our allegiance.”

By joining with MassMEP and Smith & Wesson, the DVS provides certain veterans training programs that prepare men and women for jobs in the manufacturing industry. The Mobile Outreach Skills Training (M.O.S.T. ®) program is a fast-track, intensive skills training, recruitment, assessment and placement program that prepares unemployed and underemployed individuals, including returning veterans and minorities, for production jobs in less time than traditional programs. Those graduating on November 11 completed two weeks of training in a state-of-the-art, mobile training facility stationed by MassMEP on Smith & Wesson property. The successful graduates will be offered employment by Smith & Wesson.

As part of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Annual Veterans Day Ceremony, Smith & Wesson will be honored by the DVS during a special presentation at the State House. The DVS will recognize Smith & Wesson for its contribution to veterans and their families as well as the Company’s contribution in raising awareness of the needs of returning veterans and the assets they bring from their military experience to the working world. Several members of the state legislature along with Senior Military personnel from the Commonwealth, as well as hundreds of veterans, are anticipated to attend this year’s ceremony.

For more information on the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Annual Veterans Day Ceremony, please contact www.mass.gov/veterans. For additional information on the MassMEP M.O.S.T. program visit www.timewisemost.com or call 321-266-0677.

About Smith & Wesson
Smith & Wesson Holding Corporation (NASDAQ Global Select: SWHC) is a U.S.-based, global provider of products and services for safety, security, protection, and sport. The company delivers a broad portfolio of firearms and related training to the military, law enforcement, and sports markets, and designs and constructs facility perimeter security solutions for military and commercial applications. Smith & Wesson Holding Corporation companies include Smith & Wesson Corp., the globally recognized manufacturer of quality firearms; Smith & Wesson Security Solutions, Inc., a full-service perimeter security integrator, barrier manufacturer, and installer; and Thompson/Center Arms Company, Inc., a premier designer and manufacturer of premium hunting firearms. Smith & Wesson facilities are located in Massachusetts, Maine, and Tennessee. For more information on Smith & Wesson and its companies, call (800) 331-0852 or log on to www.smith-wesson.com.

California Department Of Fish And Game

California --(Ammoland.com)- The California Department of Fish and Game (DFG) reminds veterans that service-related injuries need not keep them from enjoying wildlife and the great outdoors.

America’s disabled veterans get a break on the price of sport fishing and hunting licenses and are provided some special opportunities.

DFG offers reduced-fee hunting and fishing licenses to both resident and nonresident disabled veterans. Any honorably discharged, disabled veteran with a 50 percent or greater service-connected disability who wants to hunt birds or mammals, or fish in California is eligible. The 2011 Sport Fishing License (Reduced – Disabled Veteran) and Disabled Veteran Hunting License cost only $6.44 when purchased at DFG license counters.

Special hunting blinds have been constructed to be accessible to people with mobility impairments at some state wildlife areas and ecological reserves, and at some National Wildlife Refuges.

DFG also works with military installations on wildlife management and provides tags for those installations to issue to military personnel for deer and Tule elk hunting opportunities.

“We recognize the service, commitment and sacrifice of our veterans, military members and their families by offering special hunting opportunities when and where we can,” said Charlton H. Bonham, Director of DFG. “Veterans, and especially disabled American veterans, are all heroes who have accomplished the remarkable, often during the worst of times. For that, we are truly grateful.”

The first disabled hunting license must be purchased from a DFG License Sales Office. Proof of having taken a hunter safety course and certification from the U.S. Department of Veterans’ Affairs or a copy of a previous year’s California Disabled Veteran Hunting License is required at the time of application.

These offices are located in Eureka, Fresno, Los Alamitos, Monterey, Napa, Rancho Cordova, Redding, Sacramento, San Diego and Stockton. Hours, addresses and phone numbers can be found on the DFG website at www.dfg.ca.gov/licensing/officelocation.html. Subsequent licenses may be purchased from any license agent or online.

Fish and Game Code, section 7150, authorizes DFG to issue Reduced-Fee Sport Fishing Licenses to anglers who meet specific criteria. Additional validations or cards are required for certain species and areas and must be purchased at the regular fee.

All California sport fishing licenses are valid Jan. 1 through Dec. 31 each year, and make excellent holiday gifts for veterans. The 2012 reduced-fee fishing license applications are on our website at www.dfg.ca.gov/licensing/fishing/sportfishingfreereduced.html. Reduced-fee hunting license applications are at www.dfg.ca.gov/licensing/hunting/reducedfee.html (hunting licenses are valid July 1 through June 30).

Fishing and hunting regulations and more information about licenses are available on the DFG website at www.dfg.ca.gov.

The Fowl Life Iraqi Veterans Canadian Goose Hunt

Sportsman Channel

New Berlin, Wis. --(Ammoland.com)- Hunting Canada geese and riding in a Blackhawk helicopter – sounds like a recipe for great TV!

Sportsman Channel, the leader in outdoor TV for the American Sportsman, is proud to showcase the latest episode of The Fowl Life with Chad Belding. Entitled “Blackhawk Down, Part 1”, host Chad Belding and “Team Fowl Life” travel to Colorado with American (Iraqi) veterans for world-class Canadian goose hunting.

They also experience American military training with a ride in Blawkhawk helicopter and fire Howitzer guns that were used in war. Simply put, this episode is about giving back to American military by sharing in the outdoors with moments of laughter, smiles, tears and immense pride in America. Watch this captivating episode of The Fowl Life on Sunday, October 30 at 9:30 p.m. EST.

Team Fowl Life chased the migration on the Front Range of Colorado (near Fort Collins) and also trained with the soldiers at Camp Ripley in Minnesota. The soldiers experienced Canada geese decoying at 15 yards as they pull up and out of their blinds to harvest several birds, including 13 out of one flock.

“The Veterans were awesome shots and got out of their blinds to shoot faster than anybody I have encountered on a hunt,” said Belding, host of The Fowl Life with Chad Belding. “I want the overall feeling to be that hunting is the common denominator. We all came together because of this rich heritage. I also had the distinct privilege of “pinning” a new soldier (Sergeant Chris Eisminger) to a new rank which truly humbled me.”

“Blackhawk Down – Part 1” will also include many interviews with soldiers in uniform and hunting gear discussing their opportunity to hunt and protect their fellow Americans. Viewers will also see Team Fowl Life train with the marines and will see the soldiers present Belding with an Iraqi Freedom Flag from their tank convoy.

• To learn more about The Fowl Life with Chad Belding, visit http://www.thefowllife.com/vs2/
• Follow us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/bandednation

About Sportsman Channel:
Launched in 2003, Sportsman Channel is the only television and digital media company fully devoted to the more than 82 million sportsmen in the United States, delivering entertaining and educational programming focused exclusively on hunting, shooting and fishing activities. Sportsman Channel is now available in HD, check with your local cable or satellite provider. Acquired by InterMedia Outdoors Holdings in 2006, Sportsman Channel reaches 27 million U.S. television households and is a part of the nation’s largest multimedia company targeted exclusively to serving the information and entertainment needs of outdoors enthusiasts. Visit www.thesportsmanchannel.com, follow on Twitter, @SPORTSMANchnl (www.twitter.com/SPORTSMANchnl), become a Fan on Facebook, www.facebook.com/sportsmanchannel and download Sportsman App at www.itunes.com/appstore

W.L. Gore & Associates

Newark, DE --(Ammoland.com)- W.L. Gore & Associates, a leading manufacturer of advanced technology products including the GORE-TEX brand for comfort and protection, today announced that Charles Ek of Milton, New Hampshire and Ron Warren of Montgomery, Alabama are the winners of the company’s “Hunt with Heroes” contest.

The contest is part of Gore’s initiatives to support United States military personnel who are dedicated hunters.

Contest winners were selected from a pool of entries in the nationwide contest, which was a joint effort between Gore and Freedom Hunters, a program of the non-profit American Military Family, Inc. that takes active duty and wounded combat veterans on hunting excursions to relax and recuperate. Gore began providing financial support and gifts in kind to the Freedom Hunters program in 2010.

Military winner, Army Warrant Officer Ron Warren, has served one tour in Iraq and three tours in Afghanistan, where he was an explosives dog handler for the Special Operations community. He recommended for the Bronze Star w/Valor during a fire fight in Southern Afghanistan. Ron Warren currently is stationed at Fort Rucker in Alabama, where he is enrolled in Army flight school.

Civilian winner Charles “Charlie” Ek is an experienced whitetail, turkey and grouse hunter from New Hampshire. An avid outdoorsman, Mr. Ek spent years running environmental education programs for children and adults.

From October 22 – 30, 2011, the two contest winners will enjoy an all-expense paid elk hunt in the backcountry of Colorado, hosted by Capitol Peak Outfitters. Gore will supply both with a full kit of Sitka gear featuring GORE OPTIFADE Concealment, the first-ever visual concealment pattern based on animal vision as well as hunting footwear with durably waterproof, breathable GORE-TEX product technology. Contest sponsor Cabela’s will contribute a $500 gift certificate to each winner to help him prepare for the hunt. Charlie and Ron will be joined by pro guides from Capitol Peak as well as hunter, photographer and outdoor blogger, Alex Tenenbaum, who will chronicle their trip on sitkainsight.com

“We are pleased to honor these two men, who represent thousands of military members, veterans and civilians who are avid athlete-hunters,” commented David Dillon, Hunting Category Leader at Gore.

“Gore is committed to preserving outdoor traditions and our nation’s hunting heritage. We are proud to bring together this soldier, outdoorsman and pro guides for a once in a lifetime experience and to provide them with gear designed to maximize their weather protection and comfort leading to their greater success in the field.”

About W.L. Gore & Associates (www.gore-tex.com)
Gore is a leading manufacturer of thousands of advanced technology products for the electronics, fabrics, industrial and medical markets. Perhaps best known for its waterproof and breathable GORE-TEX® fabric, the company’s portfolio features a diverse array of innovations, including everything from guitar strings to life-saving cardiovascular devices. Gore is headquartered in Newark, Del., posts annual sales of $3 billion, and employs 9,000 associates in 30 countries worldwide. It is one of a select few companies to appear on all of the U.S. “100 Best Companies to Work For” lists since the rankings were introduced in 1984. Visit www.gore.com to learn more.

GORE, GORE-TEX, OPTIFADE and designs are trademarks of W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc.© 2011 W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc., 295 Blue Ball Rd., Elkton, Maryland, 800-431-GORE, gore-tex.com.

Bass Pro Shops

Springfield, Missouri --(Ammoland.com)- Labor Day Weekend typically signals the last hurrah of summer as families finish vacations and kids get ready to head back to school.

It’s also a great time to recognize the everyday heroes around us, the achievements of those in the workplace and our military personnel.

That’s why Bass Pro Shops retail locations** across the U.S. will host the Honoring Our Heroes Event during Labor Day weekend September 3rd –4th and again September 10th –11th.

Bass Pro Shops retail locations will offer free family activities from 1-5pm each of those days and free crafts from 2-4pm (while supplies last) Labor Day weekend, September 3rd and 4th and again Saturday and Sunday, September 10th and 11th and it’s all free!

You can also help show your appreciation for our troops, most of whom won’t be able to get home for the holiday, by bringing in new or gently used DVDs, video games or books. All donated items will be sent to our troops through the AMVETS organization. The first 50 people at each store to donate, beginning at 10am each day, will receive a Sportsman’s Racing Team poster.

Kids can challenge mom or dad to a radio remote control car race Saturdays and Sundays or take part in any of the other free activities such as the bean bag toss or tire roll. If you complete all three activities you will receive a free stars and stripes band (while supplies last.) (Check out www.basspro.com/laborday for complete Honoring Our Heroes Event weekend activities for your local store)

Other fun activities offered from 2-4pm each Saturday and Sunday of the event include a patriotic bug or sun visor craft (while supplies last). Plus you won’t want to miss the Dutch oven apple pie cooking demonstrations and FREE samples Saturdays, September 3rd and 10th.

Families can also register to win one of two exciting prizes being given away. One winner will be selected nationally to win the Grand Prize of a trip to Charlotte, NC and meet NASCAR® driver of the #1 Bass Pro Shops car Jamie McMurray. The Grand Prize Package includes two tickets to the May 2012 Sprint Cup All-Star race in Charlotte, three-night hotel accommodations, special meet-n-greet with Jamie McMurray, a Bass Pro Shops themed go-cart, one pair of Oakley® sunglasses, a tour of Earnhardt-Ganassi Racing and a $300 Bass Pro Shops gift card to spend at the Charlotte store. You may enter to win at the store or online at www.basspro.com/winatrip.

There will also be prize drawings each day September 3-4 and 10-11 at 2:30pm, 3:30pm and 4:30pm for great prizes like a patriotic flag chair, Oakley® PIT BULL™ sunglasses, Bass Pro Shops® oversized sleeping bags, Bass Pro Shops® Dome tent or a Brinkmann® 3-burner grill.

Be sure to check out the special paint scheme on the #1 Bass Pro Shops race car honoring the 10th anniversary of September 11th at the Richmond race on September 10, 2011.

This Labor Day, help show your appreciation for all the everyday heroes plus our troops and squeeze the last drop out of summer fun without putting any pressure on your budget, by bringing the family to Bass Pro Shops Honoring Our Heroes Event.

• **Bass Pro Shops retail locations in Miami, FL and Branson, MO will not have the event but will honor sale prices.
• ***Bass Pro Shops Canadian locations will hold Labour Day events with varied times, dates and details. Please click here for Canadian location details.

About Bass Pro Shops Group:
Bass Pro Shops -56 retail stores in 26 states and Canada visited by over 110 million people annually, international catalog and internet retailing, American Rod & Gun wholesale division selling to over 7,000 independently owned retail stores worldwide, Outdoor World Incentives also selling Bass Pro Shops gift cards through over 132,000 retail outlets across America and a restaurant division with 26 locations. For more information regarding Bass Pro Shops store locations, products or special events, please visit www.basspro.com. To request a free catalog call 1-800-BASS PRO.

Tracker Marine Group – Manufactures and sells Tracker, Nitro, SunTracker, Tahoe and Mako boats through Bass Pro Shops retail stores and over 400 dealers worldwide. Visit www.trackerboats.com

Resort Group – Big Cedar Lodge and other resort properties including restaurants and golf course. Visit www.bigcedar.com for more information.

HAVA On-Target at Shooting Industry Masters

Honored American Veterans Afield

Longmeadow, MA --(Ammoland.com)- Honored American Veterans Afield (HAVA) and FMG Publications sponsored two American Heroes from Ft. Campbell at the annual Shooting Industry Masters event in Park City, KY on July 22-23, 2011.

These disabled soldiers were greeted with a 2-minute standing ovation by over 350 participants from the shooting industry who understand how their service and sacrifice exemplifies the commitment to freedom that America’s military personnel show every day.

These soldiers represented the hundreds of veterans that HAVA serves each year and exhibited the joy that HAVA activities brings to these American heroes as they begin to rebuild their lives after their service and considerable personal sacrifice.

Representing the Army on the HAVA team was SSG David Jacks, a 22-year veteran of 4 combat tours including Desert Storm in 1991 and Baghdad in 2005 who has won a Purple Heart and the Army Medal for Valor among other awards. And Captain Matt Moser of the 101st Airborne Division who suffered severe vertebrae damage while commanding convoys in Iraq – and now is in remission from cancer after numerous operations and several rounds of chemotherapy.

“HAVA was honored to feature two highly decorated Army combat veterans on our Shooting Industry Masters team to demonstrate to the industry that the HAVA mission delivers tremendous benefits to real American heroes,” said Tom Taylor, HAVA Chairman.

“Our sponsors know the value of our work in providing hunting and shooting opportunities to disabled veterans, and we invite all shooting industry companies to participate in this important work.”

About HAVA
HAVA is a 501[c]3 organization formed by companies in the shooting and outdoor industry with the purpose of raising awareness and further assisting disabled veterans with their healing process through guided hunts, shooting sports and other outdoor sports activities. The sustaining sponsor companies are Smith & Wesson, Yamaha, Crimson Trace, Leupold & Stevens, Surefire, Mossberg, Hornady, FMG Publications and the NRA among numerous contributing companies. Those companies who would like to learn more about the HAVA mission can do so at www.honoredveterans.org

AmmoLand Gun News

Dallas, TX - -(Ammoland.com)- According to The Associated Press, Todd Weaver’s idea of a romantic gift was not jewelry, roses or mushy cards. He preferred unique fancy gifts, for example, the time he celebrated the 21st birthday of his wife, Emma, by taking her skydiving.

The AP went on to say that Todd and Emma met in high school in Virginia. He was a popular baseball and football star. Right before leaving for a tour of duty in Iraq via his service in the National Guard, he ran outside in the rain in his socks to give Emma a kiss goodbye.

After Todd returned from his tour, the couple were inseparable. Todd joined the ROTC while attending the College of William & Mary. He graduated Phi Beta Kappa in 2008. Todd and Emma married and had a beautiful daughter, Kiley, who was only 9 months old when her father left for his second deployment to Afghanistan.

On Sept. 9, 2010, U.S. Army 1st Lt. Todd W. Weaver, 26, who was assigned to 1st Battalion, 320th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division, Fort Campbell, Ky., died serving his country in Afghanistan when insurgents attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device. Weaver was awarded the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart.

WTKR in Williamsburg, Va., reported that since Todd was killed in action last September, his widow, Emma, and his parents, Don and Jeanne Weaver, have been seeking to preserve his memory and sacrifice by raising money for a memorial scholarship in his name at William & Mary, an award that will fund a study abroad trip for a student every year. So far, they have raised $40,000 of the $50,000 needed to endow the scholarship.

It chaps my hide when people today belittle our military or say America doesn’t have young people who display the brazen courage of men of old when our service members continue willfully to place themselves in harm’s way and defend freedom to the point of death.

Last year, my wife, Gena, and I visited West Point, where the thousands of young cadets blew us away with how ready and eager they were to serve their country. And who can overlook the guts and nerve of our Navy SEALs as they took down Osama bin Laden? Beyond all these are the hundreds of thousands of patriots since America’s founding like Todd Weaver, who literally have given up their very lives for their country and our freedom.

Each Memorial Day, we honor and commemorate all of our fallen warriors. The day holds a special meaning for all of us, and for the families of the fallen, it provides a profoundly proud yet painful remembrance.

My father fought and was wounded in World War II in the Battle of the Bulge.
I served in the U.S. Air Force in Korea. I am also an honorary Marine. My brother Aaron served in the U.S. Army in Korea. And our brother, Wieland, served in the U.S. Army, as well, in Vietnam, where he paid the ultimate price on June 3, 1970. (His name is etched among the 58,000 fallen service members on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington.) Wieland was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star with “V” device (first oak leaf cluster) for his heroism Aug. 27, 1970.

The official correspondence about the award from Adjutant General Thomas E. Minix details Wieland’s heroism in this way: “For heroism in ground combat against a hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam on 3 June 1970. Private Norris distinguished himself while serving as assistant machine gunner in Company A, 2d Battalion (Airmobile), 506th Infantry, during combat operations near Fire Support Base Ripcord, Republic of Vietnam. When his platoon made contact with an enemy reconnaissance team, Private Norris volunteered to walk in the lead position to inspect the area after the enemy was engaged by aerial rocket artillery. Approaching the top of a hill, he noticed two hostile soldiers waiting in ambush. Private Norris immediately shouted a warning to his fellow soldiers, drawing the hostile fire to himself, mortally wounding him. His alertness prevented the insurgents from inflicting numerous casualties on his platoon. Private Norris’ personal bravery and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.”

On the day Wieland sacrificed his own life, I lost my best friend and brother, and the hearts of my mother and my other brother, Aaron, and my own were torn in two. That day, we unwillingly joined the ranks of those families of fallen warriors.

It has been 41 years since my brother left for his heavenly home, and we miss him and are as proud of him today as we were back then. This Memorial Day week (which concludes with the anniversary of his death), we again honor and commemorate his sacrifice and courage, along with all our other valiant patriots.

U.S. Army 1st Lt. Todd W. Weaver and my brother Pvt. Wieland Clyde Norris are just two stellar examples of hundreds of thousands of fallen warriors who are worthy of our thanks and honor. They all serve not only as our heroes but also as reminders that our liberties and republic are worth fighting for.

About such patriots, Gen. George S. Patton was right: “It is foolish and wrong to mourn the men who died. Rather, we should thank God that such men lived.”

Chuck Norris

COPYRIGHT 2011 CHUCK NORRIS

About Chuck Norris:Action hero and Second Amendment activist, Chuck Norris is one of the most enduringly popular actors in the world. He has starred in more than 20 major motion pictures. His television series “Walker, Texas Ranger,” which completed its run in April 2001 after eight full seasons, is the most successful Saturday night series on CBS since “Gunsmoke.”In 2006, he added the title of columnist to his illustrious list of credits with the launch of his popular Internet column. Now Chuck is a regular contributor to AmmoLand, click the following link to See more of Chuck Norris on AmmoLand Shooting Sports News.

Arkansas Game & Fish Commission

LITTLE ROCK, AR --(Ammoland.com)- During last week’s monthly meeting of the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, commissioners approved several resident military retiree and resident disabled military veteran licenses and permits.

The licenses will be available July 1.

The licenses range in price from a $35.50 lifetime combination license down to a $5 lifetime trout stamp. Military retirees who are at least 60 years of age and residents of Arkansas are eligible for the resident military retiree lifetime license and permits.

Arkansas residents who are totally disabled military veterans qualify for the resident disabled military veteran licenses and permits.

The licenses and permits are being offered to recognize the sacrifices that have been made by the state’s military retirees and disabled veterans.

In other business, the Commission:

• Approved a proclamation by Gov. Mike Beebe to start Free Fishing Weekend at noon, June 10, and end at midnight, June 12. Licenses will not be required for fishing in Arkansas during that period.
• Approved a $23,210 expenditure to complete improvements to the access road to the new trap range at the Fred Berry Conservation Education Center on Crooked Creek.
• Approved a lease for the temporary location of the AGFC Northeast Arkansas Regional Office in Jonesboro. The temporary office will be in the old Federal Aviation Administration building at the Jonesboro Municipal Airport. The lease is for 15 months while a new office building is under construction on the grounds of the Forrest L. Wood Crowley’s Ridge Nature Center. If the new office building is completed before the end of the 15-month lease, the AGFC will not be required to fulfill any remaining time on the lease.
• Approved changes to the Commission’s committee procedures. The changes included restructuring the Commission’s seven standing committees to five standing committees.
• Approved a minute order delegating authority to the AGFC director for administrative and emergency decision-making.

Kate Calahan, Cheri Arnold, Vickie Gardner, Leslie Smith and Issac

Alpenoptics.com

Rancho Cucamonga, CA --(Ammoland.com)- Alpen Optics, along with Mississippi Outdoors, Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Prois, Fisheries and Parks and PVA-ORHF (Outdoor Recreation Heritage Fund) recently hosted a turkey hunt/fishing event for injured female veterans to “celebrate” these women and the sacrifices they’ve made for our country.

Vickie Gardner, co-owner of Alpen Optics, says, “I know how much being in the outdoors hunting and fishing means to me, and I knew that our returning female veterans would benefit from these activities as well. After spending time with the three special women during their first turkey hunting experience, I can say without a doubt that the hunt was healing and uplifting for not only them but everyone involved.”

Gardner says she wants to make the media aware of this Celebration Hunt and solicits the media’s help in raising awareness for female veterans, especially injured female vets and how hunting can provide a level of healing for them.

Veterans Leslie Smith, Kate Calahan and Cheri Arnold all suffer from debilitating injuries, but say that hunting and spending time in the outdoors provides them with a sense of empowerment and self-assurance that strengthens their spirits.

The participants enjoyed two days of hunting and fishing on the beautiful 8000-acre property owned by Mississippi Commissioner Billy DeViney; and two of the ladies ended up taking a bird.

After harvesting her first ever turkey, Smith, an amputee who’s partially blind, said, “Hunting and taking this bird made me feel confident and powerful. I feel if I can do this, I can do anything.”

Calahan, who’s partially paralyzed, insisted on going after her gobbler on foot. She even climbed what she claimed were “two of the biggest hills in Mississippi” to get the job done.

“I began hunting a couple of years ago with the Paralyzed Veterans of America Organization,” Calahan says. “I realized through hunting that I don’t have to be stuck inside. I can do things. It’s a great feeling.”

Arnold, an incomplete quadriplegic, says hunting has opened up another world for her. Although she didn’t get a bird, Arnold says, “I was thrilled to witness Leslie and Kate’s excitement at getting a bird.”

Arnold was the only lady to catch a fish during their afternoon fishing trips for bream and bass.

Gardner says, “The 2nd Celebration Hunt was a life changing experience for all of us. I look forward to future hunts and to meeting more remarkable women who’ve given so much of themselves to protect the freedom that we often take for granted.”

Veteran Outdoors 2011 Season 2 Episode Schedule

Veteran Outdoors

Austin, TX --(Ammoland.com)- See what Veteran Outdoors has been up to this spring and see where and when you can catch season 2 of Veteran Outdoors on TV!

5/2 – Episode 1: “Pay It Forward” – VO Alumni MSG Dan Robles hosts and surprises his buddy SFC John Faulkenberry with his dream elk hunt on the W7 Ranch in Quemado, TX.

5/9 – Episode 2: “A Major League Surprise” – VO Team Member/ Retired Major League Pitcher Doug Brocail helps surprise US Army Veteran Tim Seckel and his son Grant on their first father/son deer hunt to the Thunderhill Ranch in Llano, TX.

5/16 – Episode 3: It wasn’t just “Anywhere in Texas”, it was the JDB Ranch in Menard, TX where VO Team Member/Country Music Star Kyle Park gets in on the surprise whitetail hunt for SFC Jerad Eldred.

5/23 – Episode 4: “Pay it Forward” – VO Alumni MSG Dan Robles hosts a surprise Spearfishing trip to the Coronado Islands before his buddy Joe Chadwick deploys on his third tour & VO Alumni SFC John Faulkenberry returns to surprise Capt. Kyle Marcum with an Alligator hunt at the Womack Ranch in McFaddin, TX

5/30 – Episode 5: “Guts & Glory” – Charlie Bravo Aviation’s CEO, Rene Banglesdorf, steps in to host SGT Kisha Makerney on the Reynolds Ranch in Sterling City, TX & SPC Louis Dahlman at the Butterfield Ranch in Robert Lee, TX as they go after West Texas Whitetails.

6/6 – Episode 6: “Redemption” – VO Alumni SPC Louis Dahlman surprises SSG Jim Stanek with his dream Oryx hunt on the Live Oak Ranch in Uvalde, TX. VO Alumni SSG Stanek then pays the mission forward to US Army Veteran Chris Cordeiro with a trip to the Rockin P Ranch in Brady, TX.

6/13 – Episode 7: “Dance Floor & Deer Blinds” – VO surprises SSG Rico Roman during their fundraising Hangar Dance with a whitetail hunt on the Live Oak Ranch in Uvalde, TX and SSG Jim Stanek comes along to host.

6/20 – Episode 8: “Mission… Accomplished ” - VO Alumni SSG John Botts & MSG Dan Robles surprise SSG Justin Lynn with a west Texas Turkey hunt but when the turkey’s don’t cooperate, VO decides to take the hunt to another level.

6/27 – Episode 9: “All I want for Christmas”  – The fishing didn’t turn out quite the way we intended so VO Alumni Dan Robles & host Cody Hirt surprise SFC Matt Miles with a hunting trip during his son’s Christmas play.

7/5 – Episode 10: “The Big Leagues” – US Army Veterans Nick Kasbohm & Whitney Lessor were called up to the Bigs by VO Team Member, retired Major League Pitcher Doug Brocail as surprises them with a Mule Deer & Antelope hunt at the Wagonhound Ranch in Wyoming.

7/12 – Episode 11: “If at first you don’t succeed…” VO surprises US Marine Capt Ryan Voltin with his dream exotic hunt at the historic YO Ranch and when they don’t succeed the first time, VO brings him back alongside the Combat Wounded Marines to complete the mission.

7/19 – Episode 12: “Everything’s Bigger in Texas” VO flies US Air Force SSG Shaun Meadows and his family down to the Thunderhill Ranch to take on the challenge of breaking the VO Whitetail Record.

7/26 – Episode 13: “Fishing For Freedom” – ArmyBassAnglers and VO join forces to surprise veterans with professional tournament action.

8/2 – Episode 14: US Army SGT Kisha Makerney returns to Texas to find her trophy.

About:
Veteran Outdoors is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to honor our country’s wounded veterans’ patriotism and their sacrifice by providing quality hunting, fishing and outdoor related activities. VO’s goal is to raise public awareness about the therapeutic effects that being in the outdoors actually has on the mental and physical disabilities of our country’s wounded men and women. We will also provide a platform for veterans to tell their own stories in their own words. Visit: www.veteranoutdoors.com

Pre-paid RMEF Memberships for U.S. Service Members

Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation

MISSOULA, Mont. --(Ammoland.com)- More than 1,800 pre-paid memberships to one of America’s premier wildlife organizations are waiting to be claimed by active U.S. servicemen and women with an interest in elk, hunting and conservation.

Supporters of the 178,000-member Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation (RMEF) paid for these memberships as a thank-you to those who are defending our nation.

An RMEF membership ($35) includes a year’s subscription to Bugle magazine and other benefits, with proceeds supporting the nonprofit organization’s work to conserve habitat for elk and other wildlife. Learn more at www.rmef.org.

To claim a membership, simply go to www.rmef.org/military and sign up.

This offer from RMEF is good while supplies last.

About the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation:
Snowy peaks, dark timber basins and grassy meadows. RMEF is leading an elk country initiative that has conserved or enhanced habitat on over 5.9 million acres land area equivalent to a swath three miles wide and stretching along the entire Continental Divide from Canada to Mexico. RMEF also works to open, secure and improve public access for hunting, fishing and other recreation. Get involved at www.rmef.org or 800-CALL ELK.

Lone Survivor Foundation and Veteran Outdoors

Austin, TX --(Ammoland.com)- On Tuesday, the Lone Survivor Foundation and Veteran Outdoors announced coordinated efforts to broaden the reach of their missions and launch the first season of Veteran Outdoors featuring the Lone Survivor Foundation.

Débuting on the Sportsman Channel this spring, the show’s dual-focus will include providing a platform for veterans’ stories of survival and sacrifice to be heard and exposing the indispensable benefits of rehabilitation through outdoor activities.

“The motivation behind this venture is consistent with our overall business plan of working hand in hand with like-minded organizations in support of our nation’s finest,” said Major Sharon Henderson, president of Lone Survivor Foundation (LSF). “Veteran Outdoors has a similar passion and purpose which makes them an ideal partner in this campaign.”

Veteran Service Organizations Work to Amplify Missions on the Sportsman Channel

Founded by Navy SEAL (Ret) Marcus Luttrell and Sharon Henderson, the Lone Survivor Foundation welcomes home, empowers and restores American wounded warriors and their families. The Foundation also strives to encourage hometown USA to “pay it forward” to our troops.

Henderson said by increasing awareness about the needs of wounded veterans and their families, the organizations hope to motivate others to become more involved in local efforts of this type.

Cody Hirt, president of Veteran Outdoors (VO), spoke to the importance of inspiring others to participate by sharing the stories of these men and women.

“There is an endless need for the work that the LSF is accomplishing,” said Hirt. “VO is excited to provide a voice for the message of support and thanks to our veterans, and a platform to reach a broader audience with these stories.”

VO gained a national audience in 2009 when their self-titled show aired on the Fox Sports Network. The show’s motto is: “giving back to those who gave.” Each episode highlights unique hunting and fishing experiences with wounded veterans.

Bailey Grey, public relations specialist for LSF, said joint efforts to increases the effectiveness of both organizations will draw attention toward this cause.

“We have an opportunity to make an even greater impact on the lives of our wounded warriors,” said Grey. “Our hope is that we can motivate many more individuals to pay it forward to these men and women who have done so much for our nation.”

Hunters Ridge Ranch

CAMDENTON, Mo. --(Ammoland.com)- One of hunting’s best kept secrets, Hunter Ridge Ranch hosted its Third Annual Wounded Warrior Freedom Barbecue to honor American servicemen who have returned home from overseas.

Set amidst Missouri’s picturesque Ozark Mountains, the event brought together wildlife professionals and sportsmen to express their appreciation for the men and women serving in our U.S. Armed Forces.

This year’s honored warriors - Bradley Garfied, Jeffrey McFarland, Jamie Andries, and Corey Smith of the U.S. Marines and Royce Harvey of the U.S. Army – received four-days of all-inclusive hunting and fishing at the scenic Hunter Ridge Ranch.

The five men also enjoyed a fun Saturday evening barbecue where they received numerous tributes and special gifts from individuals, organizations and companies wishing to express their support and gratitude.

“Americans are blessed to enjoy rights and liberties that are unmatched anywhere else in the world, and we owe it all to the brave men and women in our armed forces. We all owe a great debt to them for their sacrifice to our country, and our Wounded Warrior event is a way we can better show our appreciation,” says Oscar Hunter, owner of Hunter Ridge Ranch.

“On our ranch, we have trophy whitetail, red stag, fallow deer and elk as well as some fantastic duck hunting and fishing. I can’t think of a better way to say ‘thanks to our troops’ than by sharing it all with our military personnel.”

Hunter Ridge Ranch features a 1,000-acre reserve and 2,000 acres of free-range property which is home to some of the largest whitetail trophy deer in the world, plus magnificent elk, red stag, buffalo and fallow deer. Hunter Ridge Ranch also provides fishing in Lake Niangua full of bass, crappie, catfish and blue gill, along with pristine conditions for excellent duck and turkey hunting. Above all, Hunter Ridge Ranch fully caters to its guests’ individual needs to make their visit a truly memorable experience.

To learn more about Hunter Ridge Ranch or its corporate and customized packages, call 800.288.9997 or visit www.hunterridgeranch.com.

Headquartered in Camdenton, Mo., Hunter Ridge Ranch is one of the nation’s premium hunting destinations for a world-class outdoor experience. For more information on the Hunter Ridge Whitetails, call 800.288.9997.

Honored American Veterans Afield (HAVA) Launches New Website

Honored American Veterans Afield

Longmeadow, MA – -(Ammoland.com)- In an effort to build upon the Honored American Veterans Afield (HAVA) mission, the organization announces a new website with better communication and added functionality.

Please visit www.honoredveterans.org.

About HAVA:
HAVA is a 501(c)3 organization formed by companies in the shooting and outdoor industry with the purpose of raising awareness and further assisting disabled veterans with their healing process through guided hunts, shooting sports, and other active outdoor sports activities. The sustaining sponsor companies are Smith & Wesson, Yamaha, Crimson Trace, Leupold, Surefire, Mossberg, Hornady, FMG Publications and NRA. There are many other contributing companies. Those who would like to learn more and contribute to the HAVA mission can do so at www.honoredveterans.org.

Armalite & Geneseo, Illinois Marks Veterans Day 2010

ArmaLite Inc

Geneseo, IL – -(Ammoland.com)- Geneseo, Illinois the home town of Armalite Arms Inc,  is quite small… just over 6,000 people live here.

But, each year, this small town makes a big city effort to mark Veterans Day and to honor our local veterans. Just after dawn, volunteers put out nearly 650 flags in the city park. Each flag is in memory of a local veteran. This year there are seven new flags. For the last several years, bad weather has prevented a full display of these honored flags. This year all the flags were put on display.

When their task is done, there is hot coffee and pastries waiting for the volunteers at the nearby VFW post. The ladies of the Geneseo Women’s Club are up before dawn to make sure the treats are ready.

As the flags quietly mark the day, ceremonies are held inside the VFW post. Prayers are said, there is a guest speaker and a light lunch. Outside the post, saluting gunfire comes from uniformed vets.

By late afternoon the flags are taken down, rolled up and put in special cases to be stored away. With the luck of more good weather, the flags will re-appear on Memorial Day.

Armalite & Geneseo, Illinois Marks Veterans Day 2010

AR STANDS FOR ARMALITE

About:
ArmaLite has one of the broadest product lines in the firearms industry. We manufacture and sell semiautomatic rifles in a variety of calibers including 5.56mm and 7.62mm, long range super-accurate bolt action rifles in calibers including .308 Winchester, 300 Winchester, 338 Lapua, and 50 BMG, and classic 9mm pistols. Visit: www.armalite.com

Wiley X Salutes The Brave Men And Women Of The Armed Forces

Wiley X Eyewear

Livermore, CA --(Ammoland.com)- Wiley X Eyewear has been developing the kind of rugged, battlefield proven eyewear, gloves and tactical accessories that have made it standard issue for top military and law enforcement personnel worldwide.

With Veteran’s Day approaching, the attention of the world turns to honoring the valor and sacrifices made by those who protect our freedom today and all through our country’s proud heritage. And, Wiley X has been proud of its own 20+ year legacy, but for the entire team of veteran owned and operated Wiley X, applauding those who make our way of life possible is part of the day-to-day business model.

Wiley X is the only premium sunglass manufacturer whose entire line is certified to exceed ANSI Z87.1-2003 high velocity and high mass impact standards. The experts at the company know what the people who wear their products face in the field — environments so dangerous, mercurial and punishing that taking chances with anything other than real protection can mean life or death. In fact, Wiley X tests each model of its eyewear vigorously, and from different angles, to withstand the impact of a .25” diameter steel ball fired at 150fps, and the weight of a 1.1lb. pointed projectile dropped from a height of 50” before entrusting to the faces of those who protect the U.S.

ISO 9001:2008-certified Wiley X knows that those serving in the armed forces are held to a higher standard, and feels that its eyewear needs to set the benchmark for safety and performance, as well. Specific Wiley X products are certified to the military’s rigid Ballistic VO impact standards, and have even received coveted National Stock Numbers (NSN) numbers, which identify standardized supplies that are recognized by the United States Department of Defense (DoD) and all NATO countries. Wiley X also provides exceptionally rugged tactical gloves that are trusted by the same members of the Special Forces, the USMC, and elite members of the L/E community to name a few — creating these well engineered protective gloves and accessories to help them achieve victory in the field day in and day out.

The company recently launched a new Wiley X Black Ops™ Collection — a line expressly developed for upper echelon tactical operatives — with their signature High Velocity Protection™ (HVP™) and shatterproof Selenite™ Polycarbonate lenses which offer 100% UVA and UVB protection.

So on November 11th, when you join the rest of the country to applaud those who have fought the good fight and faced danger as part of their day-to-day duties now and throughout history, remember that these heroes put their lives on the line for all of us and that freedom comes at a price.

To learn more about Wiley X’s full line of high performance eyewear — visit Wiley X Eyewear at 7800 Patterson Pass Road, Livermore, CA 94550 • Telephone: (800) 776-7842 • Or visit online at www.wileyx.com. For updates on Wiley X pro athletes and events, find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/wileyxeyewear.

Sportsman Channel

New Berlin, Wisc --(Ammoland.com)-  Sportsman Channel, the leader in outdoor TV for the American Sportsman, thanks our veterans for serving our country and ensuring our freedom.

In honor of Veteran’s Day on Thursday, November 11, Sportsman Channel has hours of shows dedicated to the people behind the uniform and the guns they use headlined by Guns & Ammo, Tactical Arms, The Experience, The Industry and Personal Defense TV.

Check out www.sportsmanchannel.com for a complete list of programs and air times.

All times below ET.

• Guns & Ammo – Thursday 8 pm with re-airs: This season Guns & Ammo covers the entire shooting sports category–from AR-platform rifles and bolt guns and shotguns to semiauto pistols and DA revolvers to good old reliable single actions. This week’s show sizzles as the Torture Team does a “boil and freeze” torture test with an Uberti Single Action Army handgun. Also, the crew conducts a lively debate on the merits of 9mm pistols versus the white-hot popularity of .380 pocket guns.
  
  The Experience – Tuesday 8 pm with re-airs: Our heroes are ordinary Americans who are the backbone of our country. They all have something in common, an extraordinary story to tell. Although their stories are different, their passion is the same; they are hunters. Hosts, Weston and Jodi Clark honor these heroes with a hunt of a lifetime in an adventure like no other on The Experience. This week, Weston and Jodi take Sergeant Major David List back to Alaska for another black bear hunt. Meanwhile, they also attend the 144th birthday part for the 1-10 CAV 4th ID.
• The Industry – Friday 2 pm with re-airs: The Industry will give you a behind-the-scenes look at the outdoors industry. We will take a look at our industry’s products, services, organizations, video production, and hunting tips. This week, viewers will get an inside look at Project New Hope, a military support organization utilizing the outdoors to help our nation’s heroes. Visit www.projectnewhope.net to discover how you can make a difference for a military family.
• Tactical Arms – Thursday 10 pm with re-airs: Guns, guns, and more guns. In each episode of Tactical Arms, our experts examine a modern weapon from the inside out. From machine guns, to battle rifles, to shotguns, to handguns – they go through a metric ton of ammo to show you the anatomy, performance, origins, and use on today’s battlefield that make these Tactical Arms the best of breed. This week, FN’s SCAR-Heavy represents the next stage in battle rifle evolution, with a host of features and capabilities never seen before. We will put this rifle through its paces, and also examine the sniper variant, the SSR, pitting it against a general purpose gun.
• Personal Defense TV – Thursday 8:30 pm with re-airs: Get ready for the most action-packed season of Personal Defense we’ve ever filmed! New host and personal defense expert, George Wehby, heads to Thunder Ranch, Tactical Defense Institute, and Firearms Academy of Seattle to deliver on the number one reason people own guns–Personal Defense. This week, guest host Massad Ayoob shows viewers his “Action Plan” demonstration on how to “stall the draw” of the other guy to give you the advantage in a face-to-face gun fight.

About Sportsman Channel:
Launched in 2003, Sportsman Channel is the only television and digital media company fully devoted to the more than 82 million sportsmen in the United States, delivering entertaining and educational programming focused exclusively on hunting, shooting and fishing activities. Sportsman Channel is now available in HD, check with your local cable or satellite provider. Acquired by InterMedia Outdoors Holdings in 2006, Sportsman Channel reaches 27 million U.S. television households and is a part of the nation’s largest multimedia company targeted exclusively to serving the information and entertainment needs of outdoors enthusiasts. Visit www.thesportsmanchannel.com, follow on Twitter, @SPORTSMANchnl (www.twitter.com/SPORTSMANchnl), become a Fan on Facebook, www.facebook.com/sportsmanchannel and download Sportsman App at www.itunes.com/appstore

Veteran Outdoors Partners with ArmyBassAnglers

Veteran Outdoors

Georgetown, TX –-(Ammoland.com)- Veteran Outdoors is proud to announce an alliance with ArmyBassAnglers with promise of advancing the missions of both organizations.

“Veteran Outdoors will be able to expand into the world of professional bass fishing tournaments and give our veterans the chance to live the excitement of some high speed competitions,” said Cody Hirt, host and founder of VO. “This will be a dream come true for a lot of guys.”

The alliance will expand the reach of VO by adding the professionalism and support of ABA, who welcome the opportunity to provide the thrill of tournament bass fishing on a professional level to deserving veterans.

“We are excited at the opportunity to provide the same level of professional support to Veteran Outdoors in both arenas of fund raising and awareness that we have been able to provide to the other 3 non-profits we support,” said Cody Roberson, ABA, president and founder.

“We see Veteran Outdoors as the missing link and feel they will complete our Task Force of high professional non-profits to further extend our combat power to help all veterans that love the outdoors in our battle to SUPPORT. DEFEND. FISH.”

By competing in bass tournaments, charity events and making appearances, ABA is able to support programs like Take a Soldier Fishing, Returning Heroes Home and Fishing for Freedom.

“Most of our missions in the past have been taking veterans on their dream hunting trips, and we have been searching for the right avenue to open up opportunities to get more guys out on the water. ArmyBassAnglers and Cody Roberson will do just that. We are looking forward to the friendships that will be created between us, the veterans, and the bass fishing community,” said Hirt.

VO will continue to honor the nation’s veterans with the chance to experience unique outdoor adventures while allowing the veterans to tell their amazing and life changing stories.

For more information visit www.veteranoutdoors.com or www.armybassanglers.com

About:
Veteran Outdoors is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to honor our country’s wounded veterans’ patriotism and their sacrifice by providing quality hunting, fishing and outdoor related activities. VO’s goal is to raise public awareness about the therapeutic effects that being in the outdoors actually has on the mental and physical disabilities of our country’s wounded men and women. We will also provide a platform for veterans to tell their own stories in their own words. Visit: www.veteranoutdoors.com

Honored American Veterans Afield

Longmeadow, MA – -(Ammoland.com)- The nation’s top firearms trainers will gather in Reno, Nevada on August 10 – 13 at the 2010 Warrior Conference to share the latest training methods.

They will also rally support for HAVA (Honored American Veterans Afield), the industry supported non-profit organization that helps returning veterans re-connect with shooting sports. Through the raffle of a Smith & Wesson M&P15T rifle with accessories from Crimson Trace, Leupold and XS Sights, the group will contribute several thousand dollars to support HAVA events and spread the word about the good works of this organization that is expressing the industry’s support for America’s returning heroes.

“HAVA is very pleased at the opportunity to share the stage with the nation’s top trainers and to add their voices to the broad support for disabled veterans and active duty military,” said Tom Taylor, HAVA Chairman. “As HAVA approaches its 4th full year of operation, we will host over 500 disabled veterans at events nationwide in 2010 and we need support from the entire industry to continue growth. The Warrior Conference is a key opportunity for us to spread the word about our mission and to raise funds to support it.”

“The Warrior Conference is a gathering of top trainers, many of whom are combat veterans, that understand the enormous difficulty of a returning veteran’s re-entry into civilian life,” said conference founder Wes Doss. “Partnering with HAVA gives our attendees a voice in supporting this important work, and a way to offer encouragement to these industry volunteers who give of their time to express the nation’s gratitude.”

Please go to www.warrior-conference.com for more details about the conference and raffle.

About HAVA:
HAVA is a 501(c)3 organization formed by companies in the shooting and outdoor industry with the purpose of raising awareness and further assisting disabled veterans with their healing process through guided hunts, shooting sports, and other active outdoor sports activities. The sustaining sponsor companies are Crimson Trace, Hornady, Leupold, NRA, Mossberg, Smith & Wesson, Surefire, Yamaha and FMG Publications. Those who would like to learn more and contribute to the HAVA mission can do so at www.honoredveterans.org.

Free Hunting Licenses for NJ Veterans

New Jersey Fish and Game

Trenton, NJ --(AmmoLand.com)- Free fishing and hunting licenses, stamps and permits for NJ resident veterans with a service-connected disability have been available since 2000.

The NJ DEP Division of Fish and Wildlife issues these licenses to eligible veterans after a certification process requiring proof of honorable discharge from any branch of the Armed Forces and who have been declared by the US Department of Veterans Affairs to have a service-connected disability of any degree.

Eligible veterans only need to apply once for disabled veteran certification. Only the division can approve certification; license agents are not authorized to do so.

Once certified, free licenses, stamps and permits can be obtained from any license agent or via the division’s license website. Regular license requirements (i.e. applicable hunter education course completion for hunting licenses, etc.) apply.

Certification can be completed at three division offices (no license agents) or via the mail.

For more information, including a link to a mail-in application form, visit http://www.njfishandwildlife.com/dvinfo.htm on the division’s website. Please be sure all required documentation listed on the application is provided to avoid processing delays.

Carbon Express

Flushing, Michigan – -(AmmoLand.com)- Carbon Express®, a leader in arrow technology, innovation and precision is proud to announce that they will be a key supporter of the Salute To our Heroes Event presented by BowTech.

The event’s organizer and Bowtech Prostaff member, Kip West promotes archery, fishing and skeet shooting, while providing these heroes with some much needed rest and relaxation.

“These American heroes have laid their lives on the line to protect the freedom that we all take for granted everyday. In the process they have been severely wounded. I cannot thank them enough but I can help give them a few days of outdoor fun away from the hospital while teaching them the basics of the wonderful sport of archery. ” commented West.

Carbon Express is very excited and eager to help out with this event. “Being able to support the ones who serve and protect our country is a great feeling for us, and is the least we can do,” said Lennie Rezmer, Vice President of Carbon Express.

Three teams of six to seven individuals will make their way through the archery, fishing and skeet shooting tournament, with a winner being named at the conclusion. Celebrities such as country music star Tracy Lawrence, Bassmaster Classic Champion Woo Daves, TV hunting personality Chris Brackett and retired U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Bradley Greutzner will be helping out at the event.

“I just want to thank Carbon Express for all of their support and assistance in making this event a truly memorable one for these soldiers,” exclaimed West.

About Carbon Express®
Carbon Express®, an Eastman Outdoors Inc. brand, is the leading manufacturer of high performance carbon hunting and target arrows and arrow components for hunters and target shooters. For more information or customer service visit www.carbonexpressarrows.com, or call 800.241.4833.

DALLAS, TX --(AmmoLand.com)- For many seriously injured military veterans, sports and outdoor activities have been shown to be effective in helping them rebuild confidence and focus on their abilities to achieve. For that reason, in mid-March, Balfour Beatty Construction’s Dallas/Fort Worth division hosted a week-long pig hunt for wounded veterans at their hunting lease in Richland Springs, Texas.

“The ORHF hunts are huge for guys like me”

Balfour Beatty Construction employees labored before the event to prepare the site for the heroic hunters, including building ramps for the hunting cabin and special deer blinds to accommodate wheelchairs.

The event, organized through the Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA) Outdoor Recreation Heritage Fund (ORHF) with Balfour Beatty hunting lease partner Jack Hazel, also received additional support from other industry organizations. Savage Sports Corporation provided new guns for the hunters to test, and was represented by company CEO Ron Coburn; Crimson Trace Lasers contributed additional guns and laser sighting accessories and was represented by Travis Noteboom, Director of Public Relations; and Outdoor Life magazine Executive Editor John Snow was present to provide full coverage of the event.

Five wounded veterans participated in the hunt: PVA-ORHF Chairman, Joe Fox, a retired USMC Vietnam Veteran who hunts from a wheelchair; Dr. Stanley McGowan, a retired U.S. Army Captain, who served in Vietnam and is blind; quadriplegic SSG Matthew Keil, who is retired from the U.S. Army, who hunts using a power chair with a custom “sip and puff” setup to operate his rifle; former U.S. Army SP4 David Bradshaw, who also hunts from a chair; and retired USMC Corporal Jason Mikolajcik, who is recuperating from extensive burns and shrapnel wounds received from an IED explosion in Iraq.

For SSG Keil, this trip marked his first time away from home without his wife since receiving his wounds. “The ORHF hunts are huge for guys like me,” said SSG Keil. “It gets me back out into the world, doing things I liked to do before my injury. And it’s great to be around other vets and people who see the guy … not the chair.”

The vets brought down 36 pigs in just three days of hunting, five times more than the lease hunters took in the entire 2009 hunting season.

The PVA Outdoor Heritage Fund, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, was established in 2001 to permanently support its many sports programs, including fishing, hand cycling and triathlon, track and field events, and recreational shooting, hunting, and fishing. To learn more about the organization, visit www.pvaheritagefund.org.

About Balfour Beatty Construction
Balfour Beatty Construction has been a leader in the U.S. commercial construction industry for 77 years, providing general contracting, at-risk construction management, design-build, preconstruction, public/private and turnkey services for clients nationwide. The company employs 2,100 professionals and was recently named among the Top 100 Best Companies To Work For® in the U.S. by Fortune Magazine. Balfour Beatty Construction is part of London-based Balfour Beatty plc, a global leader in professional services, construction services, support services, and infrastructure investment.

Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation

MISSOULA, Mont.- -(AmmoLand.com)- Jim Zumbo, host of Jim Zumbo Outdoors on Outdoor Channel and longtime member and supporter of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, has established a special elk hunt for veterans at RMEF’s Torstenson Wildlife Center/Double H Ranch in New Mexico.

The first-annual “Jim Zumbo’s Purple Heart Hunt” will be a cow elk hunt in November.

Participants will include the two high bidders in auctions held March 4-7 at the RMEF Elk Camp and convention in Reno, Nev., as well as two servicemen who are recipients of the Purple Heart medal for wounds suffered in combat. Each high bidder will hunt with the veteran they sponsor.

“The rewards that I receive from taking disabled military warriors hunting are immeasurable,” said Zumbo. “This elk hunt is an opportunity to not only offer quality hunting experiences to veterans, but also for able-bodied sportsmen to experience hunting side-by-side with troops who are true American heroes.”

RMEF President and CEO David Allen said, “RMEF is proud to be a part of Jim’s Purple Heart hunt. We will roll out the red carpet for these true American heroes. As Americans, we cannot do enough to repay those who serve our country with honor and allow us to enjoy our freedoms. The Purple Heart hunt is just another small way we can say thanks to these men and women.”

Zumbo is well known for his work with disabled servicemen, many of them amputees. He and country music singer Aaron Tippin are national spokesmen for the Outdoor Recreation Heritage Fund, which is part of Paralyzed Veterans of America. Zumbo has hosted military heroes on hunts in Africa, Alaska and a dozen other states.

Like most of his hunts with disabled vets, Zumbo plans to film the upcoming elk hunt, which may be aired on his television show.

About the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation:
Snowy peaks, dark timber basins and grassy meadows. RMEF is leading an elk country initiative that has conserved or enhanced habitat on over 5.7 million acres—a land area equivalent to a swath three miles wide and stretching along the entire Continental Divide from Canada to Mexico. RMEF also works to open, secure and improve public access for hunting, fishing and other recreation. Get involved at www.rmef.org or 800-CALL ELK.

Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation

MISSOULA, Mont. — U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Patrick Zeigler, shot four times at Fort Hood, Tex., on Nov. 5, dreams of recovering well enough to go elk hunting someday.

That wish has become a welcome command for a battalion of hunters eager to help.

The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, an organization made up primarily of hunters focused on conserving habitat for elk and other wildlife, has adopted Zeigler as one of its own. Members have vowed to make the soldier’s dream come true—as well as support him through the grueling rehab and surgeries that stand between him and his first adventure in elk country.

“When I told Patrick about the offer to go elk hunting, it was one of the few times I’ve seen his eyes light up since he’s been in the hospital. He loves to hunt and fish and be outdoors. He always wanted to hunt elk but never had a chance. Now, that experience is one of the things he’s driving for,” said Zeigler’s father, Pat, a career serviceman now standing vigil by his son’s side.

Zeigler, 28, was wounded when a gunman opened fire inside a crowded processing center at the Texas military base. Thirteen people were killed and more than 30 others wounded before police shot and apprehended the accused shooter. Some of the survivors remain in critical condition, including Zeigler who still has bullets lodged in his head, shoulder and hip. A fourth bullet passed through his forearm. He is paralyzed on his left side and has begun treatment at a facility in Austin, Tex.

A graduate of Florida State University, volunteer fireman in his hometown and husband to be, Zeigler served two combat tours in Iraq. He had just been selected for officer candidate school before finding himself in the wrong place at the wrong time at Fort Hood.

In the days after the shooting, Zeigler told a chaplain of his elk-hunting dream. The chaplain contacted Jim Zumbo, an outdoor writer and former RMEF board member devoted to providing hunting experiences for military heroes. Zumbo, in turn, called RMEF President and CEO David Allen.

“When I heard Patrick’s story, I knew our members would jump at the chance to help this guy. As soon as he’s able to go, we have a donated elk hunt waiting for him,” said Allen. “I’m humbled at the sacrifices that Patrick and his family have made, and pleased that we can offer him something meaningful to help him through a difficult time.”

Allen added, “We are not going to let Patrick and others be forgotten after the news and headlines go away. He deserves better. We want to be a part of his recovery as well as his life.”

RMEF members are offering moral support to Zeigler via Christmas cards, letters, small gifts and donations to a trust fund.

Although RMEF members are communicating directly with the Zeigler family, other supporters can get involved through Operation AC, a group that compiles and ships supplies, cards and letters to soldiers, including families affected by the Fort Hood shooting. Send to Ft. Hood, Injured c/o OPAC, 560 Peoples Plaza #121, Newark, DE 19702. More info at www.operationac.com or frankie@operationac.com.

The Zeigler family has set up a trust fund at a hometown bank. Send to SSG Zeigler, Patrick Trust Account, American National Bank of Texas, 5809 Wesley St., Greenville, TX 75402; (903) 455-7592.

Zeigler’s friends launched a web site, www.healpatrickzeigler.com, for additional info.

Allen has invited Zeigler to the annual RMEF convention in Reno in March, and is hoping the soldier is “well enough to attend and get to know his new elk hunting family.”

About the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation:
Snowy peaks, dark timber basins and grassy meadows. RMEF is leading an elk country initiative that has conserved or enhanced habitat on over 5.6 million acres—a land area equivalent to a swath three miles wide and stretching along the entire Continental Divide from Canada to Mexico. RMEF also works to open, secure and improve public access for hunting, fishing and other recreation. Get involved at www.rmef.org or 800-CALL ELK. Learn more at www.rmef.org.

Outdoors Magazine

Sidney, Maine --(AmmoLand.com)- Vinnie Trask of Sidney, Maine celebrated Veteran’s Day a few hours late in the North Maine Woods. He did it in style though with a trophy that carried 8 points and 250-plus pounds.

Trask was staying at Pine Grove Lodge in Pleasant Ridge, Maine, and was a guest of the Pine Grove Program, which gives free hunting, fishing, and outdoor-related trips to people with disabilities – primarily those received as the result of a man-made or natural disaster. In Trask’s case he is a Vietnam-era veteran who lost both of his knees while working on aircraft. These days he gets around on prosthetics with the use of a cane.

Veteran Deer Hunter's Big Maine Buck

Early this morning Trask was working his way into a “hot spot” when he caught the flag of a deer in the distance. As he waited for it to get lighter he slowly worked up a logging trail for a better vantage point.

As Trask topped a small hill he spotted the heavy-racked buck in the distance and fired. The deer disappeared and Trask continued to slowly make his way along. In a short time he caught the deer standing about 150 yards away looking back at him. This would be the big buck’s last mistake. As Trask’s gun again disrupted the quiet morning air the deer dropped out of sight.

Due to the roughness of the terrain Trask waited for reinforcements before going to see if his shot had hit home like he suspected. In no time guides Heath and Steve Howe arrived on the scene.

“It took them about an hour to find the deer,” said Trask. “”It was about 50 yards from where I thought I shot him.” After examining the buck it was clear Trask’s long shot had broken the deer’s back.

“I’ve been lucky to shoot seven deer over 200 pounds,” said Trask, who also wanted to thank Bob and Andrea Howe and the Pine Grove Program for all they do to help people with disabilities.

For more information visit www.pinegroveprogram.com.

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Each month Outdoors Magazine shines its spotlight on different areas of the outdoors world. Features and sub-features are multiple page spreads written by select experts in their fields. In addition to features and sub-features, each month Outdoors Magazine has over 40 columns written by real guides, industry experts, and the best in their fields. Our staff are die-hards who take the time out of their lives hunting and fishing to write.