Dead Down Wind Supports Wounded Warrior Hunt

Dead Down Wind

South Carolina --(Ammoland.com)- Dead Down Wind proudly participated in the 7th Annual SCI Low Country Chapter Wounded Warrior and Wheelchair Hunt at Nemours Plantation in South Carolina held on Oct. 24-25, 2011.

Four Dead Down Wind pro staffers worked as volunteers during the hunt. Gus Congemi, host of Live the Wild Life, and co-host Ernie Wojtysiak were on hand to film the hunt for the TV show and distribute Dead Down Wind gift bags to the hunters. Congemi said each gift bag contained numerous scent-prevention products to aid in the hunters’ success.

“Attending this hunt was important to my pro staff and me,” Congemi, says. “Pro staffer Mike Gilbert is a retired Army 1st SGT. Pro staffer Mike Leavitt’s father is retired military, and my daughter is a West Point graduate actively serving as a Captain in the Army. These ties to the military made us feel strongly about giving any support we could to this event and our troops. We wanted to give something back to those who serve our country.”

Fifty hunters, including 30 Wounded Warriors, 10 adult disabled hunters and 10 sick or injured youngsters participated in the hunt, and more than 200 volunteers lended a hand. Hunters took 14 deer and two hogs during the two-day hunt.

“Support for the organization allows it to expand its Disabled Hunter programs and inspire other groups and organizations to get involved in offering similar outdoor activities for the benefit of wounded warriors, sick youngsters and disabled adults,” Mark Peterson, SCI Low Country Chapter Disabled Hunter & Wounded Warrior program coordinator, says. “Every year hunters have inspirational stories of courage, perseverance and faith to share. They are stories that deserve to be told, especially the stories of service and sacrifice by the Wounded Warriors.”

For more information on Dead Down Wind, visit them online at www.deaddownwind.com .

The Fowl Life

ATLANTA --(Ammoland.com)- The Fowl Life with Chad Belding has partnered with the Wyakin Warrior Foundation to bring a benefit concert to Boise, Idaho, December 10, 2011, at Shorty’s Saloon.

All concert proceeds go to the Wyakin Warrior Foundation (www.wyakin.org), a nonprofit organization for severely wounded veterans, to help transition them into successful and rewarding careers.

“The entire Banded family and I are so excited to have the opportunity give back with this event,” Belding said. “Chad Ryan (The Fowl Life/Banded Nation) has worked very hard to make this happen, and he deserves a lot of the credit. We couldn’t be happier or more proud to be working with the Wyakin Warriors Foundation.”

The concert will feature Universal artist Drake White and co-writer and good friend Leith Loftin. Both artists have flown in from Nashville to show their support for veterans and for the foundation.

Shorty’s Saloon features some of the best live entertainment in Boise. It is located at 5467 Glenwood Street Garden City in downtown. The doors open at 6 p.m., and the concert begins at 7 p.m. General admission is five dollars.

About Chad Belding:
Chad Belding’s success started with his reality hunting show called ‘The Fowl Life with Chad Belding’ which launched on Sportsman Channel and WILD TV in 2008, and airs in more than 40 million homes in North America. Fans across the nation have watched as Belding and his crew hunt in more than 15 states across the U.S., incorporating a local guest in each location who offers advice on their local hunting ground and participates in the hunt. Now approaching season three, ‘The Fowl Life with Chad Belding’ is becoming the must-see reality series for hunters across the nation. Belding also launched a new show focused on predator hunts and wildlife conservation called ‘Dead Dog Walkin,’ which began airing on Sportsman Channel and WILD TV March 2011.

About Banded Nation:
Launched in January 2011, Banded Nation is comprised of hunters, editors, graphic designers, producers, videographers and on-camera personalities dedicated to bringing a new approach to outdoor television and outdoor style. Banded Nation was founded by renowned outdoor hunting show host Chad Belding and acts as the parent company to a wide variety of properties including Sportsman Channel and WILD TV’s award-winning national television series ‘The Fowl Life with Chad Belding,’ the new predator hunting television series ‘Dead Dog Walkin’ and Banded Gear. Visit www.bandednation.com for more information.

Modern Defensive Training Systems

Utica, NY --(Ammoland.com)- I and the other MDTS staff members, friends and strategic partners want to thank all of you who came out to support the MDTS Wounded Warrior steel shoot fund-raiser over Memorial Day weekend.

This was a huge success for a first time event with shooters attending from across NYS to include citizens, Law Enforcement Officers and Military Personnel.

I am very proud to say that between the money we raised through event enrollments, extremely generous donations, raffles and online donations via the MDTS Wounded Warrior donation page we raised over $5000! It is my sincere hope that we can do this again in 2012 or something similar in an effort to give back to those who have served our country, stay tuned.

For those who couldn’t make it to the event see what you missed in the video above:

July Updates:
Due to overwhelming demand we added another Combative Carbine Skills 1&2 course to the schedule on July 24th in Marietta NY, see more details below.

If you are on facebook check the MDTS Facebook page when you get a chance or join up if you are not. We are increasing our online efforts to provide more services and information to MDTS customers via the FB page.

We will be posting more personal training logs, videos, drills, gear reviews, pictures from classes, articles and invites to various short notice MDTS Training events there on a regular basis.

If I don’t run into you at a class, at the range or on the mats have a great summer and as always, keep training.

About Chris:
Chris Fry is the owner and director of training and curriculum development for Modern Defensive Training Systems in Utica, N.Y. where he conducts courses in reality driven practical combatives skills, extreme close quarters physical defense, tactical folding knife and edged weapon combatives and combative pistol, carbine and shotgun skills. MDTS offers a variety of courses for responsible citizens, corporations, law enforcement and the U.S. Military with a singular goal of providing up to date, realistic and practical personal protection training. Visit: www.mdtstraining.com

Left to right: Scott Carnahan, Vice President, Equipment Category Group, Safariland; Trevor Baucom; Jim Scoutten, host of Shooting USA; and Billy Abbate, Atlanta Arms and Ammo. Safariland).

Safariland.com

JACKSONVILLE, Florida --(Ammoland.com)- Safariland, a BAE Systems line of business, announced today that it has developed specialized competition gear for wounded warrior, Chief Warrant Officer (CW3) Trevor Baucom, in preparation for his competitive shooting debut at the NRA Bianchi Cup Tournament later this month.

Chief Warrant Officer Baucom is a former Blackhawk helicopter command pilot with the United States Army.

He was injured in a helicopter crash while on an assault mission in Afghanistan. CW3 Baucom was deployed for four (4) tours to this region. The accident during his fourth deployment left him paralyzed from the waist down. He is bound to a wheel chair and will be competing in this year’s Bianchi Cup May 25-28 in Columbia Missouri alongside all the other competitors.

“It was truly an honor to work with Trevor; he’s got such a positive outlook and great attitude,” stated Scott Carnahan, Vice President, Equipment Category Group. “When I was approached by Jim Scoutten of Shooting USA, to develop a special rig for Baucom, the answer was a no brainer. Team Safariland is about encouraging others to enjoy the shooting sports and developing effective, innovative product. What better way to do this than by supporting one of our true heroes in competition shooting.”

After a personal meeting with Baucom, Carnahan challenged his design team to develop a race-worthy custom rig designed for a wheelchair action shooting. Safariland modified one of its most popular holsters, the Model 5198, even adding the red anodized aluminum TEAM SAFARILAND logo to it. Also included on the rig are two of their newest innovations, open-top space saving magazine pouches that sit face out on the belt. The Model 79 Slimline Double Magazine Pouch and the Model 777 Slimline Triple Magazine Pouch were a perfect complement to the holster. Then came the specially designed mounts for the wheelchair to ensure the rig was ready to win.

“I am awed by the support that I have received and my goal in all of this is to help get my fellow brothers out and into the shooting sports,” said Baucom. “I’m thrilled with the holster design that Scott and his team came up with for my wheelchair. I look forward to continuing to work with Safariland to help develop gear for my fellow wounded warriors and other wheelchair bound participants.”

Smith & Wesson, Shooting USA and Atlanta Arms and Ammo are also supporting Baucom with his preparation into competition shooting, along with Billy Abbate as his shooting instructor. All were together at this year’s NRA Show (National Rifle Association Annual Meetings and Exhibits) as Jim Scoutten made the announcement in the S&W booth.

For more information about Safariland holsters or other products, visit www.safariland.com/dutygear or www.holsters.com.

About Safariland
Safariland, LLC is a premier provider of law enforcement and security products and services, delivering a full-range of customer-specific solutions. Offering many of the world’s most recognizable branded products in the public safety market, Safariland is committed to saving

lives. For more information about Safariland and its body armor products, as well as information on the new NIJ-06 standard, please visit www.safariland.com.

CW3 Trevor Baucom with World Champion Shooter Doug Koenig - and a young admirer

AmmoLand Gun News

Atlanta, GA --(Ammoland.com)- Atlanta Arms and Ammo, the leading supplier of match grade ammunition in the shooting industry, is proud to announce its partnership with wounded warrior Trevor Baucom as he prepares for an upcoming national level shooting competition.

Along with industry leaders Smith & Wesson and Safariland, Atlanta Arms and Ammo has taken a lead role in the development of Baucom as the Wounded Warrior ambassador to the shooting sports. Atlanta Arms and Ammo has been a supplier of match grade ammunition to many of the top competitive shooters in the world for over 20 years, and is now providing Baucom with the same quality products.

Chief Warrant Officer #3 (CW3) Baucom is a former Blackhawk helicopter command pilot and is currently pending a medical discharge from the United States Army. He was injured in a helicopter crash while on an assault mission during his fourth deployment to Afghanistan. The accident left him paralyzed from the waist down.

During his rehabilitation, Baucom was introduced to the shooting sports by Shooting USA host, Jim Scoutten. With the help of members of the shooting industry, he immediately began training for competitive events.

His instructor, Billy Abbate of Atlanta Arms and Ammo, has been on the range with Baucom for many days of one-on-one shooting instruction. Abbate, one of the nation’s first competitive shooters to earn the classification of “Grand Master”, is a high ranking competitor in many shooting disciplines and possesses a vast amount of shooting experience. Abbate has witnessed Baucom’s growth as a shooter.

“Trevor has really developed a burning intensity to improve his shooting over a very short period,” said Abbate. “We are training for the upcoming Bianchi Cup in Columbia, Missouri. Trevor will be on the range, competing head-to-head against able-bodied competitors, and I am confident that he will have a great showing.”

Baucom’s competitive shooting debut will take place over Memorial Day weekend at the National Action Pistol Championship (Bianchi Cup) in Columbia, Missouri. The Bianchi Cup offers a challenging course of fire that requires precision, mistake free shooting. For someone like Baucom, who has been a recreational shooter in the past, the Bianchi Cup should be a new and exciting experience. Baucom will be shooting against some of the best marksman in the world, given that the “Cup” attracts shooters from Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and many of the European countries.

August Sports Promotions is a Maryland/Washington, D.C. based sports representation agency that specializes in representing athletes from the outdoor sports. For more information on Trevor Baucom, please contact the offices of August Sports Promotions.

Novak Customized Tactical 870 Remington Shotgun

International Supplies

Inglewood, CA --(Ammoland.com)- International Supplies, one of the leading worldwide distributors in the outdoor sporting industry, proudly announced today that they along with Ben Goodson, a 17-year Army Veteran and Purple Heart recipient, will be raffling a Novak Custom Tactical 870 Remington Shotgun at the 2011 SHOT and NRA Shows.

The raffle will help raise money for Wounded Warrior Project (WWP). WWP is a nonprofit organization that supports those men and women of our armed forces who were severely injured during conflicts in Iraq, Afghanistan and other locations around the world.

CA-based International Supplies will start selling raffle tickets for $5 each at the upcoming 2011 SHOT Show in January at their booth #1266 and will continue selling raffle tickets through the end of the NRA Show in April. The drawing itself is scheduled to take place on the last day of the NRA Show at International Supplies’ booth #230 on Sunday, May 1st at 2 p.m., but winner need not be present. All proceeds from the raffle will go towards Wounded Warrior Project.

International Supplies will issue three prizes. The first prize is a Tactical Remington 870 Shotgun, which was donated and customized by Wayne Novak and Charley Pulit of Novak Sights, one of the leading gunsmiths in the industry, and therefore, worth more than $1,200. The shotgun features a Fiber Optic Ghost Ring Sight Set, Reliability Package, Combat Trigger Job, Dome Large Head Safety, 2 Shot Tube Extension, High Visibility Follower, 4 Shot Side Saddle, Bevel Recoil Pad, Wilderness Sling, Novak Logo on Bolt, Sight in / Test Fire 25 rds., and it will also come with a Tactical Blue Dot flashlight and remote pressure-switch, provided by Brite-Strike, leading providers in tactical flashlights.

The second prize is a Brite-Strike Tactical Blue Dot Flashlight, a super heavy duty rechargeable tactical flashlight worth $250. The third prize is a SureStrike 9mm kit with a 12 gauge shotgun adapter, worth $200, donated by Laser Ammo, a leading manufacturer in dry-fire training systems.

The raffle is open to all exhibitors and attendees at both the SHOT and NRA Show. However, for those who are unable to attend and would still like to participate in the raffle, you may send a check made payable to Wounded Warrior Project to the following address:

Checks would need to be received prior to April 29, 2011in order to participate. International Supplies also requests that by-mail participants include complete contact information so not only can they confirm receipt of check, but should one of the participants be the lucky winner, they can arrange to have the shotgun shipped directly to them through a locally licensed FFL dealer.

“This raffle is not only an opportunity to own a #1 shotgun customized by the best gunsmiths in the world, Wayne Novak and Charley Pulit at Novak Sights, and other cool products, but more importantly, it is a great way to give back to a good cause. All proceeds from the raffle will go directly to WWP. This organization has been instrumental in my own recovery and in many others, and hopefully, with the money we raise, we will be able to continue to do more for other wounded veterans.”

Wounded Warrior Project 2011 Drawing

Wounded Warrior Project

About International Supplies
International Supplies are distribution specialists based in Inglewood, CA, with more than 25 years of experience bringing unique, high tech and high quality gadgets to markets worldwide. They cater to a variety of industries: photo, film/video, consumer electronics, law enforcement/military, and outdoor and shooting sports. They are dedicated to offering their customers the very best in digital electronics, and other innovative and fashionable products. They distribute and market everything from traditional photographic film, to portable storage devices, technology cleaners, batteries, tape and underwater digital camera masks, to laser bullet dry-fire training systems, tactical flashlights, cameras and gun cases. International Supplies is also a proud supporter of the Wounded Warrior Project. For more information about International Supplies, please visit www.internationalsupplies.com or call (800) 999-1984.

About Wounded Warrior Project
The mission of the Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) is to honor and empower wounded warriors. WWP’s purpose is to raise awareness and to enlist the public’s aid for the needs of injured service members, to help injured servicemen and women aid and assist each other, and to provide unique, direct programs and services to meet their needs. WWP is a national, nonpartisan organization headquartered in Jacksonville, FL. To get involved and learn more, visit woundedwarriorproject.org.

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.

Legacy Sports International Wins Secretary Of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award

Legacy Sports International

RENO, NV --(Ammoland.com)- Legacy Sports International wins Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award!

The Department of Defense has announced that Gene Lumsden and his company Legacy Sports International, LLC will receive the 2010 Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award, the highest recognition given by the U.S. Government to employers for their outstanding support of their employees who serve in the National Guard and Reserve.

Legacy Sports International was selected as one of only 15 employers out of 2500 nominations from across the nation to receive the 2010 Freedom Award. Legacy Sports International is also a recipient of the ESGR Pro Patria Award and is a strong supporter of the Wounded Warrior Project.

“With 2010 marking the 15th anniversary of the Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award, it gives me great pleasure to announce this year’s recipients,” said James G. Rebholz, Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) National Chairman. “Legacy Sports International and this year’s other recipients are among the top U.S. employers that provide outstanding support for Guard and Reserve employees. Their superior and unselfish initiatives to support their Guard and Reserve employees make them indispensable partners in the defense efforts of this country. We are truly grateful for their unwavering support.”

On behalf of Secretary of Defense Robert Gates, a National Selection Board comprised of senior defense officials, business leaders and prior Freedom Award recipients selected the 2010 Freedom Award honorees. Legacy Sports International was nominated by Boone Cutler their credit manager and author of “Voodoo in Sadr City”. With a staff of 16, including three Veterans, Legacy Sports International imports firearms and shooting accessories. The nominator, who was injured while serving in Iraq before becoming a Legacy Sports International employee, was hired by Gene Lumsden while still recovering at Walter Reed Army Medical Center and given full pay throughout the rehabilitation process.

The Freedom Award will be presented to Gene Lumsden of Legacy Sports International during a formal ceremony Thursday, September 23, 2010 at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center in Washington, D.C.

Some past recipients of the award include: McDonnell Douglas, The State of Louisiana, American Express, United Parcel Service Airlines, Miller Brewing Company, Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., and The Choctaw Nation.

For more information contact: www.legacysports.com

Urban Shooter Podcast

Upper Marlboro, MD --(AmmoLand.com) This week on the Urban Shooter Podcast, episode 163, the BlackManWithAGun.com’s Kenn Blanchard changes the show a little and has fun with the intro, shares his wisdom on “How to tell your wife about your love for guns,” some news and an interview with the headliner for the Second Amendment March, Lucas Hoge ( www.lucashoge.com ).

Mr. Hoge is a budding country singer that is supporting the Wounded Warrior Project and the Second Amendment with donations from sales of his music. Kenn samples one of them on this show.

Kenn also gives a status on what happened to “Zombie Strike,” the narrative story heard on his show. He reminds the fellas that Mothers Day is coming on May 9th, in case they weren’t aware of it. He quotes President Theodore Roosevelt to motivate all of us that work in the trenches, to do the right thing.

The podcast is now available on www.windowstoliberty.com radio network. Check the schedule for details. Kenn will be a guest on internet radio show’s “The American Youth” Saturday, May 1, 2010, from 8-10 pm. Kenn says it’s all about love this week. Show some love to The Urban Shooter Podcast and tell a friend. www.urbanshooter.us

Check out the latest episode!

• Follow me on twitter.com/urbanshooterpod Facebook.com/kennblanchard
• Forum: www.blackmanwithagun.info
• And the show notes on www.urbanshooterpodcast.com

About:
Urban Shooter PodCast is a listener supported variety show podcast for all law abiding gun owners, air-soft, air-gun, and paintball enthusiasts of the city hosted by author, instructor and activist, Kenn Blanchard. The weekly shows share grassroots information on what’s going on, mixed with humor, guest interviews, commentary, gun safety, marksmanship and listener feedback. Visit: www.urbanshooterpodcast.com

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.

FORT BENNING, Ga.--Capt. Juan Guerrero, Company C, Warrior Transition Battalion, Fort Sam Houston, Texas, trains Mar. 30 inside Pool Indoor Range. Guerrero, who suffered severe injuries to both legs while deployed to Iraq in 2007, is training with Soldiers from the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit on the air rifle in preparation for the inaugural Warrior Games that will be held May 10-14 at the Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, Colo. (Photo by Michael Molinaro, USAMU PAO)

United States Army Marksmanship Unit

FORT BENNING, Ga. --(Ammoland.com)- Some of today’s wounded warriors have lost limbs, feeling in their arms or legs, or the use of both eyes but they haven’t lost the feeling of inspiration, motivation or commitment to succeed while still serving their country.

Wounded Soldiers from around the Army came to Fort Benning and the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit Mar. 29-Apr. 1 to learn from the military’s best shooters in preparation for the inaugural Warrior Games. Air Rifle and Pistol are among the athletic events wounded, ill and injured service members from all branches will compete in at the inaugural games May 10-14 at the Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, Colo.

“I’m really excited to get out there and see what this is going to be like because I guarantee it’s not going to be like anything else that I’ve ever done in my career,” said Staff Sgt. Rachelle Renaud, 1st Battalion, Warrior Transition Brigade, Fort Hood, Texas. “I am really looking forward to it.”

The Warrior Games provide a focal event to empower the incorporation of athletics into military wounded warrior programs, and provide an opportunity to introduce Paralympic sports to injured service members. Warrior Games is an effort to inspire recovery, capitalize on physical fitness and promote opportunities for growth and achievement among wounded troops.

“What we have to do with our service members is inspire them to reach for and achieve a rich and productive future, to defeat their illness or injury, whatever lies in their way, to maximize their abilities and know that they can have a rich and fulfilling life beyond what has happened to them in service to their nation,” said Brig. Gen. Gary Cheek, commander, U.S. Army Warrior Transition Command.

The Soldiers attending the training camp relished the chance to meet new Soldiers and break away from their sometimes grueling rehabilitation schedules. They want to look forward to something other than another doctor’s appointment. Renaud said that it’s easy for Soldiers to feel alone and start down a narrow path of darkness, but the notion of the games shows that people are inspired to help them.

“It’s so easy to isolate yourself then think that nobody understands,” said Renaud. “But a lot of people do understand.”

A veteran of two deployments to Iraq with the 720th Military Police Battalion, Renaud endured severe pain in her back that led to a double lumbar fusion on her spine. She hasn’t regained the feeling in her left leg but still has the spirit to compete and overcome her injuries.

“(The Warrior Games) has inspired me. One of the things, as far as my routine, that has changed is that instead of just going home and doing nothing, I’m motivated to go out and go exercise, go to the gym—go do something to prepare. It really distracts from everything else that is going on. It’s that moment when I don’t have to think about anything.”

USAMU Soldiers taught them the intricacies of the air rifle and pistol, as well as proper marksmanship fundamentals. Some of the Soldiers who attended the week-long clinic chose to compete in shooting events because they are good at handling a gun or have an affinity for shooting. All of them agreed that the chance to meet Soldiers, Airmen, Marines and Sailors in the same condition that they are has them motivated to get to Colorado.

“The challenge to compete with these other Soldiers who have gone through similar experiences and have overcome all of the difficulties that I have been able to overcome is very exciting,” said Capt. Juan Guerrero, C Co, WTB, Fort Sam Houston.

Severely injured in both legs from an explosively-formed projectile while on a patrol south of Baghdad in 2007, Guerrero understands that there may be Soldiers wary of competing with their injuries but offers some sound advice.

“They may think they aren’t going to be able to do it, but until they try it, they won’t know for sure. One of the things as a Soldier is that you have to try it first. If you try it and succeed, then you go on from there. If you try and you fail, you try again.
“It’s a long process, but eventually, you’ll get to the point where you’ll be able to do stuff you didn’t think you could do, just like I did.”

As the week progressed, the anxiousness and enthusiasm to get on with the games was evident. There was no mention of treatments or appointments, just encouragement and excitement. There was a practice match and they rooted for each other. With the games still more than a month away, the intent of the games seems to already be working.

“It’s an honor to be here and amongst a lot of these guys,” Renaud said. “I’m so humbled by them. They have seen it all and it’s a great experience—very uplifting. I wish everyone the best of luck and hope everyone enjoys their time and gets the most out of this.”

FORT BENNING, Ga.--Wounded warrior Soldiers conduct a practice match under the tutelage of Soldiers from the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit Apr. 1 at Pool Indoor Range. They are training for the inaugural Warrior Games, slated to be held May 10-14 at the Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, Colo. (Photo by Michael Molinaro, USAMU PAO)

FORT BENNING, Ga.--Spc. Joe Hein, U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, instructs Staff Sgt. Kenny Griffith, Warrior Transition Brigade, Fort Hood, Texas, on proper positioning with an air rifle Mar. 30 at Pool Indoor Range. Griffith was among 16 Wounded Warriors who came to Fort Benning to get rifle and pistol training from the experts of the USAMU in preparation of the Warrior Games, an inaugural event being held May 10-14 at the Olympic Training Center. (Photo by Michael Molinaro, USAMU PAO)

FORT BENNING, Ga. -- Soldiers from various Warrior Transition Units throughout the Army converged on Pool Indoor Range to train for the upcoming Warrior Games in May at the Olympic Training Center. They received instruction from Soldiers of the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit on Air Rifle and Air Pistol, among the events servicemembers will be competing in at the games. (Photo by Michael Molinaro, USAMU PAO)

FORT BENNING, Ga.--Ray Arrendondo, coach of the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit's International Pistol team, gives some instruction to Sgt. Robert Price, Warrior Transition Unit, Brooke Army Medical Center, San Antonio, Texas, Mar. 31 at Pool Indoor Range. Price was among a group of Wounded Warriors from the Army who came to Fort Benning and the USAMU to train in Air Pistol and Rifle in preparation for the Warrior Games to be held in May. (Photo by Michael Molinaro, USAMU PAO)

About USAMU:
The USAMU’s mission is to raise the standard of marksmanship proficiency and combat readiness throughout the Army by sharing knowledge gained from competing and winning in national/ international competitions, research and development and advanced training programs while enhancing the Army’s recruiting effort through an active public information and public relations program. For more information on the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, contact the Public Affairs Office at (706) 545-5436, Michael.Molinaro@usaac.army.mil or www.USAMU.com .

National Rifle Association

FAIRFAX, VA --(AmmoLand.com)- The National Rifle Association’s connection to the military goes back well over a century. Indeed, it was military men who founded the organization.

Dismayed by the lack of marksmanship shown by their troops, Union veterans Col. William C. Church and Gen. George Wingate formed the National Rifle Association in 1871. The primary goal of the association was to “promote and encourage rifle shooting on a scientific basis,” according to a magazine editorial written by Church.

Military veterans have played a role in NRA ever since. They make up a significant part of NRA’s membership and Board of Directors. They shoot in NRA’s competitive matches and often become NRA-Certified Instructors to teach gun safety and basic marksmanship.

Because NRA deeply appreciates the sacrifices you make while serving our country, we are honored to offer you a complimentary one-year membership in the NRA as a token of our gratitude and respect. Click here for more information on benefits of membership and to take advantage of the offer: http://www.nra.org/supportourtroops/.

Soldiers who hunt—and have difficulty finding a place to hunt because of frequent relocation—should visit www.nrahuntersrights.org. While this site focuses primarily on NRA’s battles to protect hunters’ rights, several links on the site make it easy to find a place to hunt, including: a state-by-state index to public hunting lands, a guide to hunting on national wildlife refuges, and a state listing of guides and outfitters.

NRA is also proud to support a number of Wounded Warriors hunts Read about one here.
( http://www.nrahunterrights.org/Article.aspx?id=1792 )

NRA conducts many more programs and services of interest to the military, from tactical competitions (http://www.nrahq.org/law/competitions/tpc/index.asp) to tuition-free armorer schools (http://www.nrahq.org/law/training/armorerschools.asp). The NRA HQ Range (http://www.nrahq.org/shootingrange/nrahqrange/) in Fairfax, VA, has hosted a free Veteran’s Day shoot for several years. Visit www.NRA.org for details on the programs of the NRA.

About:
Established in 1871, the National Rifle Association is America’s oldest civil rights and sportsmen’s group. Four million members strong, NRA continues its mission to uphold Second Amendment rights and to advocate enforcement of existing laws against violent offenders to reduce crime. The Association remains the nation’s leader in firearm education and training for law-abiding gun owners, law enforcement and the military.

2010 Winter Range

Winter Range

PHOENIX, Ariz. –-(AmmoLand.com)- The 19th annual Winter Range, the National Championship of Cowboy Action Shooting, announced that this year’s match will receive comprehensive coverage by the Outdoor Channel’s hit television show Cowboys as well as DownRange TV and CAS City.com which will provide daily online event coverage.

Winter Range will take place at the Ben Avery Shooting Range in Phoenix, Ariz., February 24-28, 2010 with over 600 men, women and juniors expected to compete.

“Winter Range represents one of the finest gatherings of Cowboy Action shooters in one of the most picturesque locations, and for the first time Cowboys, DownRange TV and CAS City will be on hand to capture all the action,” explained Michael Bane, producer of Cowboys and

A team of 12 will be on hand from the Outdoor Channel providing comprehensive coverage of the event. Cowboys host, Ron “Tupelo Flash” Stein, will be filming two episodes of the popular show which will air in Q3 and Q4 of this year. The online effort will be spearheaded by Bane and Marshal Halloway, online editor for DRTV and CAS City, and supported by Teresa Heilevang, Denise Jackson and Paul Erhardt who will each be contributing to the online content of DRTV and CAS City.

In addition to covering the match, Bane, Stein, Halloway and Heilevang will also be competing in the match giving the viewers an extraordinary inside look at the sport of Cowboy Action Shooting.

“One of the things we’re doing differently this year is that four of us are competing in the match and our coverage will reflect that hands on, insider perspective that viewers can’t get anywhere else,” explained Bane.

“Whether it’s on TV or online, the Outdoor Channel will be giving its audience the best seat in the house to follow this year’s National Championship of Cowboy Action Shooting.”

The Winter Range Championship and Exhibition is produced by the Arizona Territorial Company of Rough Riders, a not-for-profit group representing various Cowboy Action Shooting™ clubs in Phoenix and throughout Arizona. Proceeds from this year’s event will be donated to the Wounded Warriors Project.

The Ben Avery Shooting Range, where Winter Range takes place is located at the intersection of I-17 and Carefree Highway (Exit 223). Winter Range will occupy the western portion of the range and can easily be located by the huge white tent that serves as the hub of activity.

Daily event times are 8am until 5pm Wednesday through Saturday and 8am to 12pm on Sunday. Admission is free, but a $5 parking fee will be collected.

For more information on Winter Range visit WinterRange.com. To follow the competition online, visit DownRange.tv or CASCity.com where you’ll find interviews, shooter profiles, scores, photos, podcasts and videos from the match.

Wounded Warriors Deer Hunt A Bluegrass Depot Big Success

Kentucky Department Fish Wildlife

Kentucky - -(AmmoLand.com)- Drowned out by the roar of a dozen motorcycles from the Patriot Guard Riders, a police escort and the commander’s Humvee, the Soldiers shouted and waved as they met their escorts just off of Interstate I-75 on a dark cold night on Nov. 19.

Thirteen wounded warriors were then escorted to Blue Grass Army Depot for a free weekend of food, fun, deer hunting and camaraderie.

Depot employees and area organizations opened their hearts and wallets in support of Soldiers from Fort Campbell and Fort Knox who are part of the Army’s Wounded Warrior Program.

The weekend was designed to provide Soldiers injured in Iraq or Afghanistan with an opportunity to forget about their injuries and spend a weekend hunting deer. Some of the Soldiers had also participated in the depot’s September deer hunt. Blue Grass Army Depot commander Col. Joseph A. Tirone had visited Soldiers at Walter Reed Army Medical Center’s rehab center when he was stationed at the Pentagon and took wounded Soldiers to the National Rifle Association Museum and shooting range.

“We had a great time and at that point we knew that setting up a wounded warrior deer hunt would only be a matter of time,” he said.

Tirone praised depot employees, family members, members of the local community and commercial organizations who donated their time, money, expertise, and hunting equipment to make the weekend a success.

“The wounded warriors were thrilled with the hunts, their guides and the support they received while at Blue Grass. The experience contributes significantly to Hooah or healing outside of a hospital” said Sgt. 1st Class Ron Gullion, Fort Campbell, Ky. Sgt. Maj. Paul Baxter, depot military affairs, said that the goal was for the Soldiers to enjoy the hunting experience and have an “arm chair hunt.”

“They could sit back and volunteers did all the work. We even had volunteers who field dressed the deer the Soldiers bagged and packed the meat in ice so they could take it home,” he said.

The Patriot Guard Riders awarded challenge coins to each wounded warrior who arrived for both hunts.

“It’s a testament to the way the employees here feel about Soldiers and veterans. We had a new group of riders trained by the Department of Defense and depot safety personnel meet and provide escort to these Soldiers,” said Steve Verrigni, Patriot Guard senior ride captain.

Tim Robinson of the depot’s environmental office said that there were so many volunteers some had to be turned away.

“It was a great opportunity for depot employees to meet and honor these Soldiers. Many of us made lifetime friends,” he said. Tirone, an avid deer hunter, added, “This is what it’s all about, taking care of those who have made major sacrifices for our country. When the wounded warrior I was escorting shot his buck, I don’t know which of us was more excited.”

The Army Wounded Warrior Program is the official U.S. Army program that assists and advocates for severely wounded, ill, and injured Soldiers, veterans, and their families, wherever they are located, for as long as it takes. AW2 provides individualized support to this unique population of Soldiers, who were injured or became ill during their service in overseas contingency operations since 9/11.

Reprinted from www.army.mil, Official Homepage of the United States Army and Kentucky Conservation Coalition Newsletter.

About:
The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources manages, regulates, enforces and promotes responsible use of all fish and wildlife species, their habitats, public wildlife areas and waterways for the benefit of those resources and for public enjoyment. Kentucky Fish and Wildlife, an agency of the Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet, has an economic impact to the state of $4.5 billion annually. For more information on Kentucky Fish and Wildlife, visit our web site at fw.ky.gov.

Alpenoptics.com

Alabama --(AmmoLand.com)- This November and December, 14 wounded warriors will enjoy excellent deer hunting in Alabama thanks to the Semper Fi Community Task Force and outdoor companies such as Alpen Optics.

Alpen Optics, which has developed top quality binoculars, spotting scopes, rifle scopes and accessories, will show their appreciation for these heroes by donating waterproof monoculars to each hunter.

“The small, but bright monoculars are ideal for spotting game and are lightweight and easy to carry,” said Vickie Gardner, Alpen Optics’ vice president of stuff.

In addition, Alpen has provided hats, key chain lights and more for the gift bags that will be presented to the Marines and soldiers participating in the hunts.

Hunters will be guided by expert deer guides on premier private property. In addition, they will use blinds designed for those with special needs.

“We want these very special heroes to know how much their fellow citizens appreciate what they have done for their country and to know we have not forgotten them,” said J. Wayne Fears, outdoor writer and Wounded Warrior planning committee member.

“There is a peace to be found when hunting with good friends, and we hope to help these wounded warriors find that peace, and the healing that comes with being in the outdoors.”

To learn more about Alpen Optics visit their website at www.alpenoutdoor.com or www.alpenoptics.com, or by calling 877-987-8370.

For more information about the Wounded Warrior Project, visit their website at www.woundedwarriorproject.org

Under Armour

Baltimore, MD. --(AmmoLand.com)- Under Armour today announced its partnership with the Wounded Warrior Project, a not-for-profit organization that provides programs and services for injured service members and their families. The two have joined forces in conjunction with the University of South Carolina and University of Maryland football teams to recognize the sacrifices made by those who have served and those that continue to serve in our nation’s Armed Forces.

On November 14, in honor of our troops, the University of South Carolina Gamecocks and University of Maryland Terrapins will wear specially designed head-to-toe uniforms for their Game Day match-ups versus the University of Florida Gators and Virginia Tech Hokies respectively. The teams will take the field in black and desert camouflage uniforms featuring the Wounded Warrior Project logo. The uniforms will also have a unique twist; a core value embellishment – Duty, Honor, Courage, Commitment, Integrity, Country, and Service – will replace the players’ last name on the back of each jersey. Both games will be nationally televised.

Wounded Warrior Project and Under Armour will create special make-up products for fans to wear on game day to show their support. The gear will be sold in college book stores, local military base exchanges, and online at www.underarmour.com. A percentage of the fan gear proceeds will be donated to the Wounded Warrior Project. Additionally, a select number of game jerseys will be auctioned off after the game on the University websites and 100% of the proceeds will be donated to the Wounded Warrior Project.

“Partnering with an organization such as the Wounded Warrior Project allows Under Armour a unique opportunity to connect with college football fans and our athletes on a whole new level, while also supporting the overall mission of the Wounded Warrior Project – to build public awareness and help support injured service men and women and their families,” said Kevin Plank, founder and CEO of Under Armour. “We will continue to both honor and empower those who have been wounded and we are proud to support our troops.”

“We are extremely grateful to Under Armour and their partners, to their dedicated employees that believe in our mission, and of course to both universities and their athletic programs for this unique opportunity,” said Steven Nardizzi, executive director of the Wounded Warrior Project. “The incredible design of these uniforms, especially the use of warrior character traits in place of the athletes’ names on the game jerseys, and the overall visibility of these games, will generate excitement and greatly increase public awareness of our organization and the men and women we are privileged to serve.”

About Under Armour, Inc.
Under Armour® (NYSE: UA) is a leading developer, marketer, and distributor of branded performance apparel, footwear, and accessories. The brand’s moisture-wicking synthetic fabrications are engineered in many different designs and styles for wear in nearly every climate to provide a performance alternative to traditional natural fiber products. The Company’s products are sold worldwide and worn by athletes at all levels, from youth to professional, on playing fields around the globe. The Under Armour global headquarters is in Baltimore, Maryland, with European headquarters in Amsterdam’s Olympic Stadium, and additional offices in Denver, Hong Kong, Toronto, and Guangzhou, China. For further information, please visit the Company’s website at www.underarmour.com.

About Wounded Warrior Project
The mission of the Wounded Warrior Project is to honor and empower wounded warriors. Its purpose is to raise awareness and to enlist the public’s aid for the needs of severely injured service members, to help severely injured men and women aid and assist each other, and to provide unique, direct programs and services to meet their needs. To learn more, visit www.woundedwarriorproject.org.

Quality Deer Management Association

Fayetteville, North Carolina - -(AmmoLand.com)- We will be conducting our 2nd Annual Research, Educate, Advocate, Certify, Hunt (REACH) Banquet to raise funds for our Wounded Warrior to the Woods Program (W3P) and Warrior’s Dependent Youth Programs. The REACH Banquet will be held 11 September 2009 at the Gates Four Club House in Fayetteville, North Carolina.

Our Branch began the W3P in the summer of 2008 with the intent of reuniting our heroes with the Great Outdoors. Many of these warriors were avid outdoor enthusiasts before being called to duty to serve our great nation. These warriors have suffered many injuries due to their sacrifice for the country they love. Due to the nature of their injuries, many of them are no longer able to pursue their passions without physical, mental, and financial support.

Our Branch also conducts educational seminars, hunting adventures and other outdoor activities for these great Americans. During these events our sponsored hunters are provided with a Hunter Education Course, clothing and equipment for their hunts and mentors who accompany them into the field. Our Branch is currently in the process of building disabled-accessible hunting blinds on Ft. Bragg to facilitate disabled veterans and disabled citizens, who hunt on Ft. Bragg, in their continued pursuit of their passion.

We are requesting donations in the form of merchandise, hunts and/or monetary donations for the Banquet. You may purchase a Silver ($250.00), Gold ($500.00) or Platinum ($1,000.00) sponsorship for your organization/business. Your donation will be acknowledged on the REACH Banquet brochure and banner. Any contribution/sponsorship from your organization/business would be greatly appreciated by our Branch and the Wounded Warriors and Warriors with Dependents.

We realize organizations & businesses receive many requests for support each year so the Fort Bragg QDMA Branch thanks you in advance for your consideration of our request.

Quality Deer Management of Fort Bragg

I can be reached at espears@embarqmail.com or by phone at (910) 261-7439. Please visit our web site, www.qdmafortbragg.com for more information about QDMA and our W3P Program.

About:
QDMA is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit wildlife conservation organization (# 90-0334437) that promotes safe and ethical hunting, adherence to wildlife and trespass laws, hunter involvement in education and management programs and is heavily involved in community outreach programs.

FNH USA

McLean, Va. - -(AmmoLand.com)- The 4th Annual Midwest Three-Gun Championships.

Was held the first weekend in June in Fayette, Mo. offered shooters many interesting challenges and a lot of valuable prizes.

Check out the action…

FNH USA Midwest Three-Gun Championships Photo Round-Up

FNH USA Midwest Three-Gun Championships Photo Round-Up

FNH USA Midwest Three-Gun Championships Photo Round-Up

FNH USA Midwest Three-Gun Championships Photo Round-Up

About:
FNH USA is the sales and marketing arm of FN Herstal, S.A., Belgium. Its corporate mission is to expand its global leadership position in defense, law enforcement and commercial markets by delivering superior products and the finest in training and logistical support. Visit www.fnhusa.com to view the entire line of FNH USA products and services. FNH USA, P.O. Box 697, McLean, VA, 22101, U.S.A.

A SCAR 16S was raffled off at the Championships and raised $4900.00 for the Wounded Warrior Project. The lucky winner was Mike Hughes

FNH USA

McLean, Va. - -(AmmoLand.com)- The 4th Annual Midwest Three-Gun Championships held the first weekend in June in Fayette, Mo. offered shooters many interesting challenges and a lot of valuable prizes.

“The event just keeps growing,” said Ken Flood, match director and national sales manager for FNH USA. “We had a full roster with some of the finest shooters in the country and a couple of new surprises. We had many who had never shot a Three-Gun before, and I believe we made some converts to the sport,” he added.

First place winners in each division, include:

• Tactical Optics Daniel Horner
• Tactical Iron Robby Johnson
• Tactical Optics-Heavy Tate Moots
• Heavy Metal Michael Fordyce
• Open Don Bednorz
• Stage 5 Daniel Horner

In both the Tactical Optics Heavy and Tactical Optics Division, the winners shot the FN SLP shotgun, recently named Shotgun of the Year by NRA Publications.

FNH USA Midwest Three-Gun Championships Tactical Optics Winner Heavy Tate Moots

Winning the FNH USA stage – where shooters used the FNP-45, the FN SLP, and the FN SCAR 16S – was Daniel Horner and he won a SCAR 16S for his first place performance at this stage. Second and third place went to Mike Ostrander and Jim Dunham, who won an FNP-45 and FN SLP, respectively.

A SCAR 16S was raffled off at the Championships and raised $4900.00 for the Wounded Warrior Project. The lucky – and very excited — winner was Mike Hughes, a range officer. “This was a successful fund raiser by any standards, said Flood. “We were very happy to send that check to Wounded Warrior.”

About:
FNH USA is the sales and marketing arm of FN Herstal, S.A., Belgium. Its corporate mission is to expand its global leadership position in defense, law enforcement and commercial markets by delivering superior products and the finest in training and logistical support. Visit www.fnhusa.com to view the entire line of FNH USA products and services. FNH USA, P.O. Box 697, McLean, VA, 22101, U.S.A.

FNH SCAR 16S Rifle

FNH USA

McLean, Va. - -(AmmoLand.com)- During its 4th Annual FNH USA Midwest Three-Gun Championships, $20 raffle tickets will be sold for a chance to win an FN SCAR 16S. Proceeds of the raffle will be donated to the Wounded Warrior Project.

Ken Pfau, vice president of law enforcement and commercial sales for FNH USA, said, “We were looking for a way to support the cause of the Wounded Warrior Project and saw an opportunity with the participants and spectators at our Three-Gun to do just that. The SCAR 16S – our highly sought after semi-automatic carbine — creates excitement wherever we take it, so that is why we decided to raffle one.”

According to its web site, the mission of the Wounded Warrior Project “is to honor and empower wounded warriors.” Its purpose is to:

• Raise awareness and enlist the public’s aid for the needs of severely injured service men and women.
• Help severely injured service members aid and assist each other.
• Offer unique, direct programs and services to meet the needs of severely injured service members (www.woundedwarriorproject.org .

About:
FNH USA is the sales and marketing arm of FN Herstal, S.A., Belgium. Its corporate mission is to expand its global leadership position in defense, law enforcement and commercial markets by delivering superior products and the finest in training and logistical support. Visit www.fnhusa.com to view the entire line of FNH USA products and services. FNH USA, P.O. Box 697, McLean, VA, 22101, U.S.A.