I was at a breaking point in my life with the chaos of everything life consisted of and needed an outlet to break away from the responsibilities of life and unwind. This hunt provided me so much peace, and the ability to enjoy Gods country which was beautiful in every aspect. The connections that I made while at this hunt will last for a lifetime. Also, one of the hosts (Cody) was a combat veteran which really allowed me to feel as if I could share my story with someone who fully understood. Also, the hospitality of both Jeff Davis and Cody Garefalos was indescribable. I now have lifelong friends through this program and am extremely grateful for that. I do not believe that I have ever done anything this impactful and these memories will last for a lifetime. If I could, I would easily press the reset button to be able to experience this opportunity with this crew again. I now feel addicted to the outdoors, and to feeling the excitement of the hunt. I am so thankful to God for providing the meat and providing an experience that I will be forever grateful for.
Colonel Orr and Master Guns Art Garcia are the master minds behind this amazing organization. They had a vision and have seen it thru the past 20 years. I have known of this group for the past 3 years and just recently participated in events. I recently had the Honor of meeting and having Fellowship with two Board Members. Because of the tremendous support from the Board Members we as Warriors are able to attend the events. Being a participant has been a life changing experience for me. The VA can not do what CMO has done for us. CMO is truly GOD sent. The connection and healing that is gained in these events is beyond belief. I can’t say enough for the Team Leaders/Escorts that ensure that we get to and from these events without an issue. CMO has fostered a huge Family of Patriots all across this Nation due to their Honor & Integrity. Others should emulate how they conduct their Service to Humanity. It is so Humbling to be part of this organization and its Leadership. May GOD continue his work thru Combat Marine Outdoors and its exemplary Leadership.
CMO has been a great group to be a part of. Being able to connect with individuals who think, talk and relate to me is a cool thing to have around
I’m Jason Schanzer and spent part of this past weekend fishing with CMO out of Port Mansfield, Tx. Really a great organization that goes above and beyond to bring vets together and help us unwind. They’re also really accommodating to some guys that need extra help due to injuries and illness. I really can’t thank them enough for the experience.
Absolutely great organization, gives vets lots of different opportunities from fishing to Hunting. No experience necessary from the vet, goal is to get out, have fun and decompress with like minded individuals.
hi this cruzer this pass weekend August 1st to 3rd i went out on fishing trip with Cmo it was off shore and bay fishing it was a great weekend i had great time enjoy the great camaraderie with my fellow brothers in arms just had a great time i recommend all Veterans to join Cmo
I retired from the United States Marine Corps in May 2008.I am a multiple combat Veteran. Shortly after that I was diagnosed with severe PTSD.
In September of 2009 my wife contacted MGySgt Art Garcia to get me involved with CMO. I was invited on a hunt involving several other combat Veterans. It was the first time I had been around any service members that were suffering from PTSD too. That weekend was a life changing and healing experience for me.
Since then I have been involved with many CMO events over the years.Each one has been a wonderful time. Being around like minded Veterans is always a healing experience.Every event I see more and more Veterans that are being helped by CMO.
I was just involved with a fishing event this weekend that was totally an amazing time! Thanks to MGySgt Leal for the opportunity to attend.
Combat Marine Outdoors is an awesome organization that continues to help Veterans daily Keep up the great work.
Semper Fi
William (Bill)Gray
Staff Sergeant
United States Marine Corps
(Retired)
First and foremost i can't say thank you enough to CMO for hosting me. I have had the opportunity to go on 2 events with them and they were awesome. Being with other veterans old and young has helped me remember the comradery we had. The veteran brotherhood is strong and true. We all have our struggles and we were able to talk and know we're not alone. I have met some buddies who are now good friends. Thank you Master Guns Perez and Leal. Semper Fidelis
I have been on several amazing fishing and hunting trip with Combat Marine Outdoors. As a disabled veteran, I cherish the time spent with fellow disabled veterans and sharing stories while making lifetime friends. Additionally, these trips are very therepudic and a great way to relieve a lot of stress and anxiety. Thanks again CMO staff and everyone involved with such a great organization!!!
What an amazing organization. Love the "family" closeness of the people who work with Combat Marine Outdoors. They really look out for the Veterans and their families. They offer so much more than hunts or fishing trips, they form a bond with each and everyone they come into contact with.
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For all who reads this, if you know of any veteran please introduce them to combat marine outdoors they are doing wonderful events to connect veterans and introduce them to experience new events. Leal was a wonderful leader for this weekend and took his time to ask all how they were doing and if they needed anything. Very welcoming. 10 stars
I cannot express enough gratitude for the incredible experience my son and I had with Combat Marine Outdoors (CMO). From the moment I reached out to Javier inquiring about a father-son hunt, the level of professionalism and dedication to making our experience unforgettable was evident.
Javier responded promptly, and I was soon in contact with Master Guns Art, who seamlessly facilitated our connection with Mr. Bill, the gracious landowner. The entire process was streamlined, and the communication was excellent, making us feel confident and excited about our upcoming adventure.
Our father-son hunt exceeded all expectations. My son had the opportunity to embark on his first deer hunt, and with the guidance of the experienced team at CMO, he came out with a magnificent 8-point buck. The joy on his face and the memories we created together are priceless.
What truly sets CMO apart is not just the hunt itself, but the hands-on learning experience they provide. We were taught how to skin and quarter the deer, adding a valuable skill set to our outdoor repertoire. The knowledge and expertise shared by the team made the entire experience educational and fulfilling.
I am immensely thankful to Combat Marine Outdoors for the opportunity they provided to my son and me. The professionalism, attention to detail, and genuine passion for creating meaningful outdoor experiences for Vets are truly commendable. If you're looking for a top-notch organization dedicated to serving those who served, look no further than Combat Marine Outdoors. They have earned every bit of this five-star review and more.
I was invited to do a guided whitetail hunt in East Texas. Al Leal was the escort and went above and beyond to make we had what we needed and were taken care of. The staff at the Little Jack Ranch were more than accommodating and made all of us feel like family. It felt like we were hanging out with friends and family the entire weekend. They made an environment that veterans could relax and not worry about anything. This experience was more than I could've hoped for and will be a cherished memory for the rest of my life.
I can’t say enough good things about this trip, from the booking of my flights, to the accommodations. The CMO guides, landowners and his family made us all feel like friends and family. Great food, great hunting, and great people! From me and my family thank you for all you guys do!
This organization is the only one I know of that benefits veterans and gives over 96% of what they raise back to the veteran. Some people would look at what they are doing and say they are self serving, and they would be dead wrong. CMO provides an opportunity for a service member to get away from the stressors of life and reconnect with their brothers. Its so important for us to stay connected. Sometimes, its all we have and it is the difference between becoming one of the 22. CMO has provided me an opportunity to meet some incredible people and share some incredible memories that I will cherish forever.
I spent several evenings durninbg the month of October hunting dove with Combat Marines Outdoors. I never hunted dove before and it was a new experince for me. What it really turned out be was a great way to connect with other combat vets. I can say I have a couple of new friends now, which is huge step in the right direction for me. My wife stated that I always came home with a smile on face and that I looked happy. I didnt get many doves but that was not the point of it for me. I was out and enjoying life for a few evenings!
Regards,
Emanuel
I had the incredible privilege of hunting with Combat Marine Outdoors (CMO), and the experience exceeded all my expectations. The camaraderie among the brotherhood at CMO created a bond beyond just hunting—a true sense of belonging and shared purpose. Together, we embarked on a challenging yet rewarding adventure, culminating in successfully hunting and harvesting a trophy, Aoudad, a unique species I never thought I'd encounter.
CMO not only allowed me to hunt such a remarkable creature but also facilitated an environment where lifelong friendships were forged. The memories created during that hunt will stay with me forever, reminding me of the exceptional moments shared with like-minded individuals who understand the thrill of the chase and the importance of preserving the natural world.
I am immensely grateful to CMO for granting me an experience I would have never had otherwise. It was more than just a hunting trip; it was a journey that enriched my life with unforgettable moments and connections that will last a lifetime. Thank you, CMO, for making this extraordinary adventure possible.
I was going through a dark spot before the event I attended with CMO. Being around those who have been through similar experiences was just what I needed. Having the ability to talk and communicate made this experience a great one. Thank you to CMO for making this possible.
I've been affiliated with CMO San Antonio since 2018 and they have proven to be a well led and outstanding organization . A great way of meeting fellow veterans from all branches of service. I've been on hunts, fishing trips , and participated in community based events like Chilli cook-offs and BBQ contest etc. It's a great way to interact with your brothers and sisters in arms while serving your local community . Marcus Guillory is our "go to guy" for CMO events , hit him up and check out the organization , you won't be disappointed . Keep up the good work!
When my brother in arms told me about CMO I thought it was too good to be true. There's no way an organization can do the things he told me CMO was doing. But it is true. I was contacted by CMO and offered a once in a lifetime opportunity to hunt South Texas. They flew this South Carolina boy out to Texas and I got to hunt in a place I never dreamed I would. Everything about this trip was first class, every staff member, every volunteer, and our host. All of them were true patriots and great Americans who wanted to give back to our Veterans. South Texas was absolutely gorgeous and the game animals were as abundant as the generosity of our host and guides but the real trophy was the opportunity to form lifelong friendships with new people and to reinvigorate our warrior spirits as we bonded over the memories of our combat experiences and our mutual love and respect for the outdoors. CMO is changing the lives of our Veterans in the most profound way, not only by giving us the opportunity to hunt, fish, and fellowship together, but by showing us that there are still people who care about us and that our sacrifices didn't go unnoticed. I returned from my trip with a new appreciation for life after combat and a full heart, forever grateful for this experience and the new family that found me. The Marine Corps motto is "Semper Fidelis", which means "Always Faithful". CMO exemplifies this motto. - J.M. Shealy Former Sgt, USMC OIF Veteran
I have been blessed with multiple experiences with Combat Marine Outdoors (CMO). From golf tournaments, clay shoots, to exotic hunts on the most beautiful ranches in the country. My experiences have all been excellent. I know hunting is what draws us veterans together, but it ends up being much more than that. The camaraderie, fellowship, simply providing an environment where veterans can confide in each other is priceless. This organization goes above and beyond to put it all together for the most memorable experiences.
Combat Marine Outdoors (CMO) is an excellent Organization for Combat Veterans and Warriors. I have been associated with CMO since my return to Society end of service and tour of duty in Iraq & Afghanistan in 2014.
Since my return to the States my reintegration into Society has been made possible through the support and love of members of Master Guns, Master Sergeant Dustin Jones, SFC “King”James. These men are like brothers and have been for every milestone with PTSD and Cancer. I cannot say enough positive words and give thanks for everything that CMO has done for myself and my family. Thank you is not not enough however it’s all I can offer for everything that this program has done for me over the years. It’s leaders such as these that stay with us and make sure we are G2G not just for a hunt but for life! God Bless CMO and everything the program does for its Warrior’s and Veterans!
V/R
SSG Rudy Rivera
USA
I went on my first CMO hunt this past September, 8th, 2023. It was just by happen chance that I was invited. I can’t express how great of an experience it was for me and to be able to share it with fellow veterans made it that much better! I never in my life imagined going on a gator hunt or any kind of trip like this, but this is definitely one experience I will never forget and I’m so grateful for the opportunity! I want to thank all the volunteers, professionals in the field, any and all donors to the organization as well as all the veterans I was able to share that day with! I truly feel so blessed and can’t thank CMO enough for everything.
Combat Marine Outdoors made it possible for me to find a comfortable place to unwind and get out of the house. For years I didn't leave the house except work and grocery stores. I learned about CMO from another Marine. I have been on a few of these hunts and each time I get more comfortable being around people. Every single hunt is well coordinated and the veterans are treated extreamly well. Talking with other veterans that have been through similar experiences and hanging out with like minded people is awesome. Thank you CMO.
Ive been on a few trips now with CMO. This is a great organization, providing great camaraderie and stress relief through outdoor therapy for our veterans and active duty brothers hers and sisters. The fish are always plentiful, and recently went on a hunt at The Landings Ranch. Was promised to see a ton of animals, and that’s exactly what we saw. Art and Gilbert took care of us, and fed me probably the best steak i’ve ever had. Can not say enough great things about CMO, and the brothers that make it such a special organization. I say thank you, and I cant wait for the next one.
I have been hunting with CMO since march 21, i have a blast every time I’m invited, it’s always great to spend time with my fellow veterans. Everything is always taken care of and we are treated like VIP’s. I can’t say enough good things about CMO, i’ve had the opportunity to do things i never would have own my own, i’m very thankful for every invite i get. I’m looking forward to the next event.
I’m proud to support and take part in the many things Combat Marine Outdoors (CMO) has to offer.
I have been a client and supporter for many years.
My first interaction with CMO was Jan 2020 when I was provided the opportunity of a lifetime along with two of my Marine brothers complements of Combat Marine Outdoors. We started by meeting our CMO escort Dustin the night before, for dinner and discussion about what was ahead.
Leaving the next morning early we headed north west of San Antonio to Big Spring, TX, Griffin T2 Ranch. Our host Larry had the cabin ready and awaiting our arrival and promptly briefed us on the hunt. We had lunch and headed out to get some shotgun time in on clay. Then headed to the 1137yd range they had set up. There we met the ranch owner Tom, neighbors and fellow ranchers Darrell, Bruce and a few other family and friends. A wide variety of firearms were brought out and shot. We hit tannerite with .308, shot my favorite revolver the super Blackhawk in .44, and slammed .50cal led into an air compressor tank at the 3/4mile mark. Headed back to the cabin to find a party brewing. More family and friends arrived for a well laid out barbecue with akaushi ribeye and all the fixings. After dinner Russ and I went out with Weylin and his buddy for some night time predator hunt. Managed to call in one coyote but couldn’t range him in the thermal and put him down. 2 shots missed. Managed some fun with jackrabbits though. Made it back about 0030 and hung by the fire until 0200.
Up the next day at 0630 for breakfast and a morning hunting quail. Managed to chase a dozen or so coveys and shot 7 quail. Larry and Roy showed us what to look for and worked the six pro dogs pointing them out. After their mid day siesta time hit we headed back to the cabin for lunch. From there we went pond hopping taking down a variety of duck. That evening we had dinner at a local cafe owned by the Wolf family. There, we were taken by surprise to find ourselves in front of about 45people there to honor us. It was a rather emotional night connecting with these families and getting to tell our stories and honor some of the community in return. Many gifts were exchanged and I have some I will cherish for my lifetime. After dinner we headed back to the cabin along with a few other friends and told stories around the fire and shared good swill and some quality cigars.
Up the next morning we feasted on fresh duck and breakfast tacos. Planning out the final morning hunt we got slammed with rain. Pretty much ruled out quail or deer and made for miserable duck conditions. Instead we ate, told stories and spent quality time before we had to pack and head back home.
It was a tough goodbye as I was made to feel at home and really felt I needed much more practice at all the shooting events. Lol.
As we departed in the rain home we witnessed a truck hydroplane, jackknife his trailer and slide into the mud. No one was hurt and our crew were able to get him back on the road. The rest of the drive was uneventful.
I’m honored to have been provided this opportunity and can’t thank those who made this happen enough. The CMO mission will forever hold a piece of my heart. Hooah!
Since my initial hunt with CMO, I have been invited back to hunt dove, fish for red drum, catfish and white bass.
Be sure to checkout all they have to offer and never skip the fundraiser events. Not just for the support and camaraderie… but for the killer raffles!
Let me tell you how grateful I am for this organization. I have been on 3 trips. One was a hunting trip and got a nice bobcat, 2nd on was a fishing trip with purple heart veterans and Vietnam veterans. That was awesome just being able to sit and talk to them, listen to their stories and all the advice they have to offer. The last trip was a dove hunt and bbq. The trips aside the organization provides someone to talk to and in contact with the right people. This is a great organization to be part of and I am very grateful that they brought me in. Oh and don't let the name fool you. It is all branches and the comradery/joking is all there too. Love it!!!!
Chris Jones
Awesome organization that takes great care of veterans. The outdoor adventures they provide is a great opportunity to escape the chaos of everyday life and creates a positive environment for veterans to get together and share their life stories while doing something fun together.
My experience with the Combat Marine Outdoors (CMO) has been and outstanding. They have invited me Fishing, deer hunting and dove hunting several times. The staff has always been very supportive and provide great information. The volunteers and escort personnel are all ways ready to guide us and very attentive when we need water, food and drinks. They provide guidance as necessary. I always have a great time.
All, if you are looking for a group that is all about the Veterans then you have come to the right place. I do not want to take anything away from the other groups out there but this organization does make the veterans feel like they belong to something bigger. They make you feel like a part of a family that will always be there for you when needed. I have been fortunate to be apart of this organization for about three years now and have gone on a couple of hunting and fishing trips at no out of pocket cost. This group pays for all of the cost for the veterans, from the time they leave their home to the time they return. Trust me when I tell you this is an upstanding group to be a part of. They give you other veterans to connect with while out on hunt or out fishing, that have gone through some of the same things you might have. These are just more tools you can use if you would ever need them you always have some to reach out to.
CMO offered an opportunity for me to do something that I truly love (fishing) while at the same time providing a safe and friendly environment (very important) with a host of other like minded individuals. There was little to no cost to me and for that I was most appreciative. Can't praise them enough!
As a combat wounded Marine CMO provides exciting adventures to veterans that have defended our freedom. At no cost to the veteran smiles and fun are created on outdoor events. There is no better therapy than being outdoors with fellow veterans.
Semper Fi
CMO provided the chance to bond again with Brothers through fishing and other recreational activities.
My Son got his first Deer during a father/son hunt that was provided through this organization as well..
Nothing but positives to say about this organization.
Im a severe Traumatic brain injury veteran.CMO I by far the best organizational. Everything is provided by these guys. It’s a dream come true .
Attending an event with CMO is not just time to enjoy the outdoors; it is more than that. It is an opportunity to fellowship with like minded folks, while enjoying some outdoor activities. It is a chance to bond with brothers and sisters who have served. It is a chance to build relationships and develop stronger networks as a Veteran.
I have been on a Fishing Expedition and A White Tail Deer Hunt with CMO. I cannot thank them enough for the generosity as well how they genuinely care for Military Veterans. I encourage those who can, sign up with them for an opportunity. Thank you CMO for making me feel like family and truly supporting the Veteran Community!
CMO is a great organization that puts veterans first.
The escort that I went out with was very professional and was always one step ahead of everyone. My only wish is that 1 could do this once a month!
Absolutely amazing organization. No details are overlooked, the staff and escorts care and it shows. I am humbled and honored to participate. CMO provides the opportunity for me to connect with other veterans through experiences that I would not otherwise have access to. It also provides an opportunity to talk with other veterans in different stages of transition from the military to civilian life and get their perspectives and insight. It makes me feel much less isolated, and not alone in the challenges of taking skills I learned in the military and applying them work post retirement/separation.
CMO is a fantastic organization. They bring vets together for hunting and other outdoor experiences to help many of us with our physical or mental challneges that are all too often unique to our vets. For me personally, CMO is a form of therapy.
What is more, the sponsors are so welcoming with their time and efforts toward our experiences and healing. Their dedication to CMO and the vets shows how much they sincerely care for our veteran community.
I am grateful for CMO and its sponsors. Thank you ever so much!
Truly a first class nonprofit that’s really about all the veterans needs and giving them a great opportunity to reconnect with brothers and sister and having some good fun along the way
Baldree Gator Hunt in Lamont Florida September 17th-24th. Our guide Ken "Q" Urquhart This trip was an experience of a lifetime. The host were generous, professional, and great people to be around. The accommodations were great and the hunts were a Success. I am truly thankful for this trip.
James Grebe
Dedicated totally about veterans and their families. This organization put together an amazing bucket list gator hunt for me and a handful of brother veterans and made us all feel so appreciated. They kept us busy chasing gators and everyone of us scored! And when we aren't out at night hunting gators on airboats, we got to hog hunt, fish with some of the most knowledgeable and experienced fishermen in the region and they delivered the reds and trout like nobody else. The food was fantastic and we never went thirsty either. Unselfish and humble, these folks are the salt of the earth. We made life long friends with them and still keep in touch. When Hurricane Idalia slammed their area, we didn't hesitate to get down there and help offer our backs to clear debris and logs for them. Our escort, Ken was totally accommodating and drove us everywhere. Chad and Dana Joel, Jen and JR were so completely awesome hosts and are the kindest and most wonderful human beings. It brought hope to all of us and the feeling of appreciation so strong, they make you wanna live there and just be around them. Thank you is not enough to CMA for your generosity and love for us and all veterans. God has truly blessed you and I pray your storm recovery is swift. Love you all and we will never forget that these people are why we serve. God bless you.
I am John Barnard a wounded combat veteran of many wars. 1982-2011 served in the US Army Special Forces. When ask to share my story I was reminded I am not the only one. There are many out there feeling the lose of life.
John Eldridge a die hard Christian comes to mind, When men who are out conquering the world. But remember — what the evil one does to a good warrior if he cannot keep him in the battle is to bury him with battles. Wear him down with fight after fight. But life is not all about the battle. We tend to forget Romance is always central. These battles to let go of your insistence to control, meaning, to allow for a life that exists beyond the realm of analysis, to let some portions of your life be impractical, to cease evaluating all things based on their utility and function? Coming closer to the heart, are you willing to let passion rise. undoubtedly it may unnerve you? To permit the healing of some of your deepest wounds? To let yourself be run through as with a rapier by Beauty itself? Are you willing, at some level, to be undone? This is the world of the warrior. We become disconnected with family, friends, and love ones. Being able to find that connection with others and the beauty of life is a conquest. Thankfully this organization dose just that. They provided me a link to find that person, father, and husband I needed to be. The time spent passing on life learned lessons to my daughter while hunting and experiencing her own life sight brought me back. The innermost strath of my child allowed me to see and hear with my hart. There are to many obstacles impeding that process and connections with life. The organization and contributions block these embittered moments, opening a precious moment of reconnection. The opportunity given to me was precious and priceless
Thank you very much for this opportunity to reconnect with life. JB
Combat Marine Outdoors is the most outstanding nonprofit organization I was able to be apart of. For the short time I attended their exhilarating hunting trip, I felt right at home with the warm welcomes and being treated like family. The staff did a remarkable job setting up everyday to make us veterans comfortable in every situation planned; fishing, range days, hunting, and even chow. This organization notices combat veterans in need of mental and physical help by sparking their interests and hanging out with some great people. These duties being provided are not what we asked for but what we needed and has left an everlasting impression on myself and dad. I appreciate the time, money, and hard work from the entire staff that allowed me to enjoy some awesome bonding time with the ones I look up to the most. Thank you CMO!
CMO gave me an opportunity to take my son hunting and fishing the way I used to go with my dad. The first 4 years of my sons life I was deployed for 200 days each year, and I know I’ll never make that time up but CMO allowed me to make the memories despite still being active duty.
My experience with CMO was absolutely awesome and it’s unfortunate to see others claim their experience was different. The staff was exceptional in scheduling and executing dream experiences to include accommodating severely wounded veterans with significant challenges. CMO does not just focus on the event, however. They focus on the therapeutic aspect of fellowship between veterans which is extremely successful but introducing the veterans to the extremely gracious and patriotic donors and landowners is every bit as rewarding. I am extremely grateful for CMO and what they do for veterans, including myself. To see others write disparaging comments is unfortunate because my experience could not have been more exceptional.
Thank you isn’t enough. CMO brought our brothers together to build the camaraderie like we did on active duty. This possible once in a lifetime opportunity allowed us to build great memories.
I was introduced to CMO through a fellow Marine Corps brother with a company we both work for. At the beginning I wasn’t 100% sure about going and was invited a couple times. I decided to give it a try and had a blast, made new friends and given opportunities to do things I never imagine or see myself doing, all in all great experiences and memories made. I couldn’t be more thankful for the love and support from the donations, ranch owners, to my brothers in arms that volunteer their time coordinating and putting these events together. Great organization, great people and would 100% recommend giving it a try. Thank you CMO, volunteers and Donors- despite the few negative comments you all make this possible.
An absolutely memorable experience! The Staff at Combat Marine Outdoors are some of the most genuinely caring veterans I’ve ever been around. They truly go above and beyond for ensuring your well-being. I am proud to be affiliated with such a wonderful organization.
An amazing organization, Family and veteran oriented focused on building everlasting relationships. My Dad and I had an unforgettable time and reconnected after many years apart due to his combat deployments.
Forever Grateful,
⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This organization has something for all veterans. if hunting and fishing is not your thing they have some trekking adventures as well. A little ir a lot of time in the outdoors with like minded brothers and sisters us the best therapy. being in your environment outside the military has proven to be the greatest therapy.
I am very thankful for all volunteers and donors of CMO...
I had the privilege of going on two fishing trips I had an awesome time with other veterans - CMO provided everything we needed in the trips - outstanding organization
F
Thank you
I am very grateful for the volunteers and donors of CMO...
I had the privilege of going on a hunt I would have never expected to go on with the Brothers I served with.
The fulfillment that I left with from this trip I will carry with me always!
What a great organization...
Thank you
Absolutely amazing experience! I felt complete for the first times since I retired from the US Marine Corps. Truly blessed to have the opportunity to spend time with Marines and like minded individuals. Thank you for for providing the missing piece to my puzzle!
I was introduced to CMO via a friend that knows Art Garcia. I was able to go on a fishing trip with CMO in San Antonio and had a great time. Our escort Marcus was great and took care of everything for us. CMO really cares about combat veterans and making our lives a little better. I wish I would have come in contact with CMO sooner than I did.
While I feel for the people who are complaining, I can't help but see a pattern of Marines that feel scorned. It has always been my understanding that brothers in arms, regardless of the branch are brothers. With this each should be glad that one of their own is getting help.
I have been a volunteer for a major benefit to raise money for our combat veterans going on three years now, not the branch, but the individual. I have had the opportunity to meet several of these veterans, not all wounds visible because some are traumatic wounds they carry in their minds and their hearts. I have heard their stories and I have seen the difference that the Combat Marine Outdoors organization has made in their lives. I have seen some of these broken men breath new life and have now become volunteers to help others, so when they are out with the group, they may be there as helpers and handlers, not as the combat veteran.
This is an organization of brothers helping brothers and to see people trying to tear it down is upsetting. No, I am not a veteran, I am a spouse who has lived with a combat veteran and I know how hard it is everyday for these soldiers.
Don't let pettiness hurt your fellow brothers from getting the help they need.
I am a ranch owner who has hosted vets from Combat Marines Outdoors and will do so in the future.
All my experiences have been positive. The Marines enjoy themselves and get away from the hospital for a break. I have gotten to be friends with two of the CMO leaders; Master Guns and Rusty. I have watched them work with the vets and seen their energy and compassion in action. It is an honor for me to be associated with the Marines and CMO.
Dan Allford
Review from Guidestar
I cant believe this organization supports animal cruelty like donkey roping and spearing hogs while they're trapped in cage
It saddens me to see this organization put down. Each individual that has negative comments was given something by CMO, for free. Some got trips throughout the country, some got to go to another country and hunt. The members that work for CMO put in countless hours to ensure each Warrior, regardless of which branch is given every opportunity to enjoy hunting, fishing, sporting events, etc. How can you feel used or pushed aside because new faces appear?! There are thousands of Warriors across this country that also deserves a trip of a lifetime as well. Everyone should be thankful for the opportunities they were given and be humble, wanting others to go an experience what they have. Instead of a Thank you and I hope you can give every Warrior an opportunity like you gave me, some want more or only themselves to enjoy it. Wounded men and women come back every day and there are thousands at home right now, be thankful that CMO was able to do something for you; a lot of vets were never given anything!
I wily like to start with the fact that CMO has a very good group of volunteers. That said, there are a few problems with how things are done. When I was first starting to work with CMO, I was singled out from the crowd most of the time without regard to whether or not I wished it, just to make the point that I wasn't a Marine. I solved this problem after having a couple talks with the persons responsible, but saw the same behavior towards other individuals. Also, there is a problem with pushing away other marines just to pull in newer faces to try and get more donations. Having experienced this personally, it makes you feel as if you're just being used and discarded for a newer model. I have had a few great adventures with CMO, and understand a lot of what and why they do certain things, but when the majority of people get pushed aside and a select few get to go on almost every outing or event that is planned, that seems unfair.
Alorr would be right in his review if this was 2010 but unfortunately he has been rather distant from this organization while living several states away. I agree with his point that all service members should have a chance to go on the trips and receive the benefits this organization provides but not when the men this organization was created to help start feeling left behind in favor of newer faces just because that draws in more money. Alorr also doesn't see on a day to day basis the actions of the current men running the organization. I hope that he can move closer to the charity and begin to see that what these other men have been posting is closer to the reality of cmo than what he remembers when he moved away. I cared greatly for this charity until it seemed that the donors and the donations became more important than the men and women that they were trying to help. I personally experienced this treatment on several occasions until I found that I couldn't continue to watch an organization I cared for turn into another corporate monster dedicated to getting as much as it can at any cost to the people it was supposed to be helping. I have felt many emotions about this organization and the people involved with it including anger and happiness but now all I am left with is a profound sense of disappointment and sadness at what it has become. I hope Alorr that you can right the ship and reconnect with all the men that have been hurt by this organization but until that day I fear that the policy will continue to be what can I get and not how can I help.
The financial records of this organization are a matter of public record, and not a secret.
95% of all funds donated go directly to help the service members that they serve. I can't believe that a few immature individuals would make unsubstantiated, ignorant, fraudulent claims in a public domain with such slanderous text. They should be ashamed of themselves. CMO helps almost 400 service members every year and has been operating since 2005.
In 2010, the organization had gained sufficient backing to begin helping wounded, I'll, and injured service members from all services, and not just the Marine Corps...because we could, and IT'S THE RIGHT THING TO DO.
CMO has only two (2) paid staff members, both of whom make less than a Marine SSgt. Those two men work tirelessly to continue to provide as many opportunities for our nation's heroes as possible.
While this organization means well it is failing to do the one thing it is supposed to, support Marines and Navy corpsman.
The organization is too concerned about public relations and getting donors to put money in their pockets, often they will only take those with obvious visible injuries and have photos taken of them to publish in a news paper or on a tv show. They are more concerned about filling their pockets than truly supporting combat wounded marines and sailors.
They have often been filling their trips with all Army members and not having a single Marine or Sailor on the trip.
Rusty Hicks is a drunk hypocrite that has made a fool of himself and made those on trips feel very embarrassed about his behavior.
While the organization means well it shall never be able to truly be a good non profit while Rusty any role with in it.
I was a part of this organization until I said I did not want to go on a certain trip. I was then not contacted for another trip for several months and when I was it was because other people backed out and they could not find anyone else. The organization started out great until the leaders realized they could harvest trophy animals and could get paid well enough to quit their jobs. It became more about trying to grow as fast as they could to make as much money as they could. They will only take guys with missing limbs or that are burnt so bad that they have no face. It was all about the pictures and trying to put a guilt trip on rich ranch owners or important people so they would donate money or animals. A few of the marines I know including myself would tell private things about their past or something that happened to them while deployed and the members would tell anyone they thought could benefit them. It started out with Marines and Navy Docs, now it's all army because they said that ranchers were tired of seeing the same faces. They very rarely take out a retired guy because "it's for active duty only". Once a marine or someone that is a part of the organization starts to ask questions about why the main leaders are making so much or about why they are doing things a certain way that person is cut off from hunts and anything else that has to do with the organization. They use ranchers to get money, animals, or anything that has value. They treat the new guys like gold so they will put up with all the pictures and questions. When that service man starts to say no or question something he is treated like crap. This organization started out for the good but is seriously corrupt now. I feel bad for all the ranchers and the new ranchers that are and will be associated with this organization because they are being used horribly. DO NOT help this organization out. If you want a good organization Semper Fi Fund helps marines and their families out more than any other organization I know. God bless and Semper Fi.
1: This org does not, currently, report to the public what their employees are paid. (The info may be available in technical files on rating sites, however, people are lead to believe that it is all volunteers.)
2: Unprofessional, regarding, record keeping, event coordination, and communication.
3: Apathetic leadership and lacking understanding regarding the individual wounded service member's issues(especially in regards to PTSD).
4: Extreme lack of honesty regarding what and the amount, of programs provided.
5: Pictures, pictures, pictures. They care more about taking pictures than the patient's enjoyment at the event or trip.
6: Very aggressive towards other non for profit organizations that, They, feel compete with them for donations and publicity.
7: Although they do have positive impact for some, the majority are left feeling used and are less likely to work with other Veteran organizations because of their personal experience with Combat Marine Outdoors.
8: Private information about the individual wounded service members that interact with C.M.O. is often disclosed to potential donors, without the knowing or consent of the individual.
9: This org was originally created to help a specific branch of service members. Namely Marines and Navy Corpsmen(and Army or other, that individually worked with Marines). The purpose of this specification, was that there was no, recovery oriented, organization that helped these specific service members. Over time this specification began to disappear. Now they take majority Army. Marines/Navy Corpsmen are rarely even offered the opportunity to go on a trip.
10: The leaders of this organization often benefit from trips themselves. They often get to hunt and shoot trophy animals, at little or no expense, on trips for the wounded they are escorting.
There are a lot of negative aspects to this organization. The point is, please don't assume these guys, and other Veteran Charity Leaders are Angels. They are not doing this from the Heart. Maybe that's how it started but now its about the money and making themselves look good.