Once again, the annual black bear hunt in Alaska for disabled veterans resulted in a 100% success for all hunters, with 15 animals being taken. The hunt, held on land owned by the Tyonek Native Corporation, is effective in reducing black bears in an area where, along with other predators, the bruins are severely depleting moose herds.
The hunt, sponsored by the PVA Outdoor Recreation Heritage Fund (PVA- ORHF), which is part of the Paralyzed Veteran's of America, allows military heroes the opportunity to enjoy a hunt. For many, this is their first hunt after being injured.
"Hunting is superb therapy for men and women who are suffering from both mental and physical injuries, and are struggling to enjoy life as they once knew it," said Jim Zumbo, who is national co-spokesperson for PVA- ORHF Fund. "It allows them the opportunity to share an outdoor experience with other warriors, make a transition back to society, and gives them hope and confidence that they can once again return to a lifestyle that was lost after they were wounded in Iraq or Afghanistan."
Country music recording artist Aaron Tippin agrees. Tippin, along with Zumbo, is also national co-spokesperson for PVA- ORHF, and is a longtime supporter of our troops who are in harm's way. Both men assisted in the hunt. Tippin performed at a fundraiser near Anchorage prior to the hunt. The event was attended, as usual, by Todd Palin, the former Alaska Governor's husband. Revenue generated in the fundraiser helps finance hunt expenses. Most of the local work for the hunt was done by volunteer Dan McDowell, a fishing guide on the Kenai River, and avid supporter of PVA-ORHF.
The hunt was orchestrated by Doug Warren, who is a consultant for PVA-ORHF. Warren said, "these projects are designed to be more than just hunting opportunities. They offer a chance for our wounded heroes to spend time in the great outdoors with their peers, share experiences, and reconnect with their brothers and sisters who watched their backs in time of combat."
Other celebrities were also on the hunt. They included Joe Wurzelbacher (Joe the Plumber) who is a veteran of the US Air Force, and country singer Steve Cochran, a former Marine and Purple Heart recipient. Joe is an avid hunter and took a nice bear, as did Cochran, who also performed with Aaron Tippin at the fundraiser.
The group enjoyed a pow-wow event with the Tyonek Native Corporation (TNC). Members of TNC held a pot-luck dinner followed by tribal ceremonies. The veteran's were honored at the event, and were invited to dance with villagers. Afterward, they were inducted as honorary members of the tribe. Purple Heart recipient Steve Cochran performed at the event, along with Litefoot, a popular Native American rap artist.
TNC added a large area to the veteran's hunting jurisdiction, and is proud to be in partnership with the PVA-ORHF. Members of TNC expressed their satisfaction with the bear hunt and made it a permanent event.
General James T. Conway, Commandant of the US Marine Corps, wrote a letter to marines and soldiers who participated in the hunt:
"On behalf of all Marines, it is my pleasure to extend heartiest greetings to our Marines and Soldiers participating in the Bear Hunt in Alaska. I have to admit, I was a bit jealous when I heard of this trip....it sounds like a great time. Your service and sacrifice reflect the highest traditions and ethos of our Armed forces, and there is no group of Americans more deserving of a relaxing get-away. I am very glad you will have this opportunity to enjoy some good bear hunting and camaraderie.
Thank you for answering our Nation's call with honor, patriotism, and courage. Through your willingness to go into harm's way and defend our way of life, you have helped carry on a heroic legacy and shape the future of our military. Your service to this country has been nothing less than valiant, and the sacrifices each of you made in defense of freedom have earned you the admiration and gratitude of all Marines and all Americans. As you enjoy the time hunting in the beautiful Alaskan landscape, know that your countrymen care greatly about you and your recovery.
My best advice is to shoot straight - there's nothing worse than a pissed off Alaskan bear - and listen to what the guides tell you so that you don't become 'meals on wheels' for the local predators. Stay safe, and happy hunting!
Semper Fidelis"
Doug Warren announced that next year's Alaska bear hunt will offer a new wrinkle. All hunters will be female Purple Heart recipients. Stay tuned.
PVA-ORHF is dedicated to raising the funds needed to make sure America's wounded heroes have the opportunity to participate in outdoor activities to enjoy themselves, and as part of their rehabilitation process as they re-enter mainstream society. To learn more about PVA-ORHF or to learn how you can support these deserving wounded heroes, go to www.pvaheritagefund.org, www.100000patriots.org or call Marsha Stumpo at (540) 349-5090.
