I had an awesome time, great group of veterans, even though i left my wallet in the car when i got to the airport, my amazing wife fedexed it to me and saved my but, would definitely do it again
The personalization, small staff and groups that continue to communicate with each member served makes you feel more like a family and less like a corporation peddling "benefits" Being around combat wounded veterans that have shared experiences is irreplaceable and having these settings in the outdoors is a great place to come together and communicate. I always feel like im at home at these events and they encourage me to keep living and flourish!
1stSgt Gennaro Mazzeo (USMC) Ret.
Great service from the initial process through follow on support. Hope to participate in the future with this effective program.
Amazing non-profit. The amount of support and quality is second to none. I feel amazing after a bonfire even after the tough conversations. The people who devote their time and resources to us are absolutely heroes. Thank you for this amazing opportunity to meet new brothers for life.
I was hesitant before signing up but the experience of being connected with other Purple Heart recipients gave me the recognition that I needed and the drive I need to continue and feel proud of being an American Combat Veteran. I was treated very special and would definitely want to stay connected.
One of the best organizations I’ve been in contact with. Their program is exactly what veterans need to get a little bit of relief from what we deal with mentally every single day.
This trip was absolutely amazing. I got to experience a lot of things that I have never done before. Being able to spend time with other veterans who have experienced the same trauma, makes being able to connect with each other a lot more personal. I don’t usually spend much time with anyone else other than family but after this trip, I can’t wait for the next one I get to go on.
I cannot say enough about the Warrior Bonfire Program! I have attended two events now and each was as great as the other. They are an organization founded and ran by true Patriots! Their mission is to not only provide sportsman therapy for Purple Heart veterans, but also create an environment conducive to healing conversations and rebuilding of community. On a recent hunting event I took as much enjoyment of the hours of conversation I had around the dinner table (where we all broke bread together) as I did from hours in the woods. The Bonfire ceremony is a truly special and unique thing to participate in. I highly encourage all Purple Heart veterans to check out WBP and get signed up for an event!
This organization far exceeded all expectations, the trip was well organized and full of great experiences. The 2 host and trip leader were extremely professional and made sure everything was taken care of each day. This was an experience I will never forget and if I could rate it 6 stars i would.
A great opportunity to bond with other Purple Heart recipients. Very soothing and relaxing time and an event I will never forget!
It was a great experience. We had a good trip leader, a solid group of participants and it felt like home for me. It was like being with best friends from my old unit and was therapeutic for me.
Warrior Bonfire Project is the best organization of people that I have ever had the pleasure of working with.
The leaders behind the project are fully dedicated to helping Purple Heart Veterans in many ways.
The Bonfire Retreats are amazing, and give us a chance to meet and spend relaxing time with other Purple Heart veterans.
Being amongst others who face the same problems as myself is extremely helpful, as we are able to share with one another stories and problems in our lives that many of our friends and family are unable to fully understand or assist us with. I have made some permanent friends by having the pleasure of going on 2 Bonfire Retreats so far, and I am very grateful to all those who make these trips and interactions possible.
Kyle Smith
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Way more than I was expecting. Great people in my group. Got to work through some things and ask for advice from people who have been through the same things I have. Activities during the trip made me feel alive again. Will definitely try to go on another trip with the warrior bonfire if I can.
I believe this was the best veteran retreat experience I have ever had. I am incredibly thankful for the opportunity. I hope the other five guys who were present become lifelong friends. Everyone was willing to be open and share information we wouldn't usually have. Each veteran brought something different to the group that I could learn from. I will be requesting to go on another retreat with the WBP.
I didn't know what to think going on this vet-trip. I can honestly say I had a great time. Not only was it fun, it was therapeutic. I met other vets like me, we shared our experiences and I felt that same military camaraderie like when I was in. The trip was well organized. We went white- water rafting and fly-fishing. The site chosen was beautiful and peaceful. I am grateful to have gotten the opportunity to bond with other veterans on this trip, and I was humbled by this great experience.
This was hands down the best veteran retreat I have been too. What made it unique to me, and I'm sure the rest of the vets on this trip would say the same, is that we were all combat wounded veterans with some extremely traumatizing experiences. I never want to put down other veterans but having the vital common ground really does make a difference. The expectation to share our combat stories, which I will admit I was initially apprehensive about at first, actually brought us closer. Some of the other programs I have been too, and I don't mean to put them down or other veterans, explicitly prohibited us from sharing this. This really is a crucial part of recovery. I was literally just talking to another veteran from Warrior Bonfire after he told me how much he appreciated me sharing my military experience with him to which I replied that it meant a lot more coming from someone who has experienced some of the same horrific things I have done and seen because I know he knows what it is like to walk in those same shoes. I have not been able to say the same for any other veteran program I have been in.
I was afforded the opportunity to join 4 other combat wounded veterans on a recent trip to Colorado (Bonfire #196). Our group was led by Denis Oliverio. Comms throughout were phenomenal. Pre-deployment packing lists, coordinated text thread for the participants, a warm reception at the airport... All were made to feel welcome and the cohesion amongst the group was exceptional. We went downhill mountain biking at Granby Ranch, visited a Sulfur Hot Springs, visited Winter Park for a gondola ride, mini-golf and shopping, and Kayaked on Grand Lake at 8,400'.
Thank you SO much for the incredible opportunity. We had a really great crew, and it made for some awesome adventures. Lots of laughs, I mean, I haven't laughed this hard in a long, long time... To be able to let your guard down and be yourself amongst those who just "get it", it is a rare opportunity indeed.
I appreciate the time, planning and resources that go into a program like this, and it is not lost on me all the excellence that occurs behind the scenes in order to execute at such a high level.
Thank you also to the donors whose support makes these programs possible.
When we leave the service, we often don't understand the value of the camaraderie we had until it is lost. It is hard fought for, and this crew understands all too well the sacrifices that have been made to secure our American way of life. This trip reminded me that the sacrifices of the few, for the many, have not been forgotten.
To all those involved in making this weekend happen, thank you for being Americans worth fighting for!
Justin Sabo
U.S. Army - Infantry
1997 - 2006
Warriors Bonfire gave me an opportunity to interact (and even make friends) with other veterans with the same experiences as me. Warrior Bonfire actually got me to leave my home and engage with people (something I have been avoiding for a long time). They have knowledgeable facilitators and even better participants. I am eternally grateful for the opportunity to be part of the program.
For a small organization that have had such a huge impact on me and my family. I would highly recommend this organization to anyone with a Purlple Heart or if anyone wants to support disabled military veterans.
Warrior Bonfire Program is an excellent organization that goes above and beyond for Purple Heart recipients. The bonfire experience was a reminder that we are not alone, and we've made connections with others that we will work to maintain for years to come. We are so grateful for the volunteers and contributors to the Bonfire Program for bringing us together and the local communities that support these events.
The Warrior Bonfire Program has been there for me through the highs and lows for over 6 years. Their contribution to veterans is working and saving lives.
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I have had the privilege of being invited on two trips. California dreaming in 2018 and most recently Wisconsin adventures.
Both programs work outstanding; however, this last adventure was exceptional. I want to thank Mike and Helen for everything they do my fellow veterans Jesus and Andrew and a very gracious, supportive and family oriented community we had the pleasure of being integrated with…. It felt just like family!
Thank you again, Warrior Bonfire ❤️
P.S. I’m both a client served and someone with experience in this field. Hooah ooh-Rah
I look forward to the next invitation.
On the Bonfire fishing trip the fishing was great, but the volunteers were even better. The trip was well organized and everything went smoothly. I was at ease with the other Purple Heart veterans and felt comfortable sharing what happened to me. The resources they have are incredible. Hoping I can go on another Bonfire trip.
These trips have far exceeded my expectations. Since I am not a people person, the hardest part is committing to go on your first trip. The limit of 6 x Vets per trip, the focus on assisting the Vet, and the Bonfire Ceremony itself is what sets this program apart. If you don't see an open slot left on a trip, sign up on the wait list--that is how I have gotten on all 3 trips I have been on. This program has been so beneficial, I have started volunteering with it (which is shocking for me).
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This was my 2d trip. Each event (regardless of the actual activities) helps a little more and heals a little more. Even if you think you don't need it, you can impact others. The key is making the commitment and going on your first WBF Retreat. Thanks to the retreat volunteers and hosts that give their time and resources. Plus you might learn something: who knew there was a professional crappie circuit!
I have just spent the last 5 days with fellow purple heart veterans gathering to spend some quality time together. To be able to meet and bond with those who understand one another like most people cannot. Arriving at the retreat, I was in a rough place with what can only be explained as piled under many negative things going on in my life. I have a fantastic wife and family but only other combat vets can understand these times and listen and talk about it. I made lifelong friends and came away able to breath and look up again. Warrior Bonfire is without question life changing and life saving. The Warrior Bonfire Program has it all figured out. I pray this program gets the support it needs to continue to serve many more veterans in need.
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I seldom like to spend time with people I don't know. A friend of mine recommended I investigate the opportunities available through Warrior Bonfire. So I went online and looked into it. After seeing some of the reviews, I decided to step out of my comfort zone and give it a shot. From the moment I applied to participate in the program, the people at Warrior Bonfire (Helen & Alaina) were there every step of the way. Every question answered with fantastic communications. The support throughout the entire process was top notch. Once I arrived at the location for our event, I met 5 fellow veterans that were also Purple Heart recipients. All dealing with things from the past, just as I. I will say from the introductions to the events it was non stop activity in an environment of like minded veterans. There was time to talk and reflect, be respectful and support one another. I have never been a part of anything so effective at clearing my head and helping everyone with the needed healing you cannot get from people who haven't been there. Its like I can breath again. Jared & Tim are the best, they lead the way for us and had our 6 the entire time. We made friends for life. I highly recommend Warrior Bonfire to every Purple Heart Veteran. J.R.
Can’t say enough of how organized and professional the entire process went. The leaders and volunteers are some of the best people you will ever meet. They not only look out for the interests of the wounded veteran, but fit right in and become part of the small family that show up. I’ve never experienced a great time of bonding and friendship as I have with warrior bonfire.
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As a combat wounded veteran, there’s many organizations out there that cater to the veteran but none compared to the Warrior Bonfire program. With the most professional team working directly with each Purple Heart veteran to make sure our needs and information was put forth and instrumental in providing packing lists, up to date information including flights, lodging, itineraries and group text check ins. The entire organization made everyone feel extremely welcome and appreciated.
The weather came in causing an adjustment to the plans, but the team provided excellent other activities that ultimately was personally better than the original.
The entire team kept everyone engaged and made us feel comfortable no matter what we were doing. The time and care that went in to putting this event on and the sponsorship and donations from groups was so heartfelt and you could see their support and encouragement. I can’t even begin to describe or express how grateful I am to have been apart of this historic event. Thank you to everyone at Warrior Bonfire all those behind the scenes that worked tirelessly to bring this all together every time. Thank you
These guys are life changing. After doing numerous counseling sessions over the years, this program has worked better than anything.
I just participated in my 2nd Warrior Bonfire retreat...what an amazing opportunity to bond and continue to heal with other combat wounded veterans and meet patriotic selfless hosts who are truly here for us. There is no judgement or measuring contests, we all have our past, and these retreats allow us to meet other Purple Heart veterans who are looking to help and continue their healing as well. Finally some good memories and friends that will last a lifetime.
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To start, what an amazing organization and a group of selfless staff and volunteers.
It will be difficult to put into words what you must experience in person to truly understand the comradery and healing that occurred during this week (speaking for myself). All veterans with a common Purple Heart bond, regardless of service, active duty rank, the injury, or the conflict the medal was awarded; I know I have made friends and contacts for the rest of my life – real Brothers. A well-planned itinerary that allows for the veterans to relax, discuss relevant issues concerning healthcare, VA by-law earned entitlements, and share activities and stories to strengthen and expand upon the common bond. I cannot thank Mike and team enough for accepting my request to attend. I look forward to the next Warrior Bonfire adventure opportunity, I will try my best to find the time regardless of the demanding work/home schedule. Keep your lines tight!
Respectfully and Thank you,
John
John Matthews, Lt Col (ret), USAF
It is one of the most caring, giving, and productive organizations for veterans. The love and thoughtfulness show in everything they do. I love you guys!!
This organization has been so helpful in helping me find myself again and heal. Great people run this organization and the veterans that are part of this group (I feel) become like family.
The Warrior Bonfire Strong Heart Spouses in Colorado event gave me the chance to rejuvenate my spirit, create lasting memories, and unlock new horizons. My favorite memories of this event were the connections I made with women of similar situations and the heartfelt conversations we had late into the night. I did not expect to connect with these women so quickly, but this event made it possible. We were surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, a beautiful home, and compassionate people who donated their time and resources to bless us. This event was extraordinary and blessed me more than words can express. Warrior Bonfire Program (WBP) provided me with a much-needed respite and reminded me of the boundless goodness that still exists in the world. Thank you to everyone who supports Warrior Bonfire Programs, especially the Strong Hearts event. This program has made a lasting impression on me because WBP not only saw the wounded soldiers who continue to battle long-lasting effects of war years after they return home; they also saw the spouses who suffer alongside their soldiers and they chose to do something about it.
Thank you,
TJ
Im a 39 year old wounded veteran from Puerto Rico. I served in the Army from 2003 to 2007. I was deployed to Iraq in 2005, thats when I got injured, drove over an IED and injured my back and neck and was burned by shrapnel. This trip to Tallageda speedway has help me a lot In my recovery process. From day one when we Introduce ourselves and talked about what we have been going through since getting Injured In combat to the last day In the bonfire where we remember our fallen friends. It has help me understand that we need God In our lives. Even know is not a christian event, I got the chance to have a conversation with other veterans and asked them how they got through live after been beaten down over and over and all of them had something In common, God. I want to thank Helen and Alaina for making this happen and to all the donors because with out you I wouldn't have had this chance. Thank you, thank you, thank you from the bottom of my heart.
I have really enjoyed my time with the Warrior Bonfire events I’ve been to. They provide some pretty awesome recreational activities to do while spending time with other veterans. This program has helped to bring me out of isolation and encouraged me to seek out more opportunities to spend time with vets.
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Thank you so much, Warrior Bonfire!! I had a great time on this trip. The activities were a blast, things I would have never done otherwise. It also did my soul a lot of good to spend time with fellow veterans again. I will cherish this time for many years to come.
Semper fi
Always a pleasure to attend and events with warrior bonfire
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I was recently able to attend a Spouses retreat hosted by the Warrior Bonfire Program in Florida. I cannot say enough good things about my experience. Now that I live in a place away from the military community, having the opportunity to come together to bond and do things with other military spouses (with similar experiences) was just what I needed to lift my spirits and re-fill my cup, so to speak. Our hostess spouses were wonderful, and we all had a great time.
This event was amazing, not just because of what it did for my morale, one of my battles that I have never met before was struggle hard on the first night. By the end of the weekend he was actually laughing and cutting up with us. He/I felt completely comfortable in this setting they put together. I actually felt up to going out in public without looking over my shoulder every second.
Thanks this was long over due and hope to see and be apart of more.
Great organization for Wounded Combat veterans. WBP promotes healing through therapeutic outings offering events and locations for veterans to be themselves promoting comrade.
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My husband got to go fly fishing, and horseback riding with Warrior Bonfire in Northern Utah. He had such a great time and it was very healing for him to spend time with other veterans. He really liked the BON FIRE.
He returned from the trip with a refreshed spirit and nothing but good things to say about his experience with Warrior Bonfire.
This past May I went on my first Warrior Bonfire trip. It was in South Dakota . I was in a bad spot and I really wasn’t sure about the trip . But when I left home and got on the plane i was motivated. It was really nice to be in contact all the time , in a group text and always someone checking on me . I never felt left in the dark about anything. The trip went great and I even got to meet some new friends . Warrior Bonfire has called and checked in on me on a regular basis. That really means a lot .
I've been on 2 bonfires in the past few years. The trips and activities are great.. but it's the people that really makes this organization stand out. The friendships made with fellow warriors, hosts and volunteers is what I have the greatest memories of. What better place to focus on healing then in the great outdoors with your brothers in arms that share the same struggles. I cannot thank warrior bonfire enough for the impact they have had on not only my life, but my families life!
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Warrior Bonfire allowed me to connect with other Veterans who understand and can share my story. Many of us are reluctant to attend to our social needs.
With WBP, I got to spend a weekend outside in a beautiful location, fish for the 2nd time in my life, and ride a horse. All of which I wouldn't be able to participate in or organize on my own. I'm grateful for the chance to participate and look forward to working with them in the future.
This was my first experience with a veterans organization. It couldn't have been better. They took care of everything all I had to do was show up and relax. Big thanks to Dave Parker for driving us around and showing us what San Diego has to offer. Thanks to the donars who make these trips possible.
The Warrior Bonfire Program deserves EVERY one of the 5 stars I have given them, and if I could give more I would. I have been impressed with WBP for a few years now as although I had signed up for their pool of Purple Heart veterans to be served, I had not been able to make it work for quite some time to get to one of their events. YET, they still called me around the Holidays, on my birthday, and sent emails to simply check in to see how I was doing. That was genuine. Real genuine and appreciated. I finally had the opportunity to recently attend their 6th annual (128th Bonfire) Lake Sam Rayburn fishing event in March 2022. The communications, info share, assuring proper travel was taken care of or on track, and providing a comprehensive OPORD prior to the event to be as prepared as possible. The host, WBP fellow Purple Heart guide, and all the volunteers were welcoming people who sincerely loved being there to show myself and the 5 other P-Hearts a memorable and relaxing time. Outstanding hospitality. WBP's executive office stayed in touch in real-time, checked in on us, made themselves available for any needed questions or assistance. I had a wonderful time and made lifelong friends not only with my fellow Purple Hearters, but so many of the great people involved. I highly recommend that all Post 9/11 Purple Heart veterans check out WBP events and I plan on attending a future one for sure!
This past weekend (25-27 March 2022), I had a fantastic time at Lake Sam Rayburn, TX. Thank you, Warrior Bonfire Program, for such an outstanding experience.
It was great bonding with fellow Purple Heart veterans, meeting very generous hosts/volunteers, and the flag retirement ceremony is something I will never forget. The bonfire provided us each an opportunity to open up about those we've lost and honor their memory. I don't remember the last time I met so many great people and was able to unplug in this way.
If you know a Purple Heart recipient that would benefit from an outdoor event, please refer them to Warrior Bonfire Program!
What a great opportunity for purple heart veterans to get together and bond through adventures. We snowboarded, fished, snowmobiled and tubed and had a great time.
The Warrior Bonfire Program is one of the best programs currently engaging Purple Heart recipients. Small groups led by a tremendous staff only emphasize the great work being done here. I would recommend this program to all Purple Heart recipients!!
Was able to spend time with fellow purple heart veterans on a great fishing trip. This trip ranks in one of the best that I have ever been on. Great time and would not have happened if not for the Warrior Bonfire Program
Wow, I can't thank the Warrior Bonfire Program enough for having me on the trip to South Dakota at the Majestic Ranch.
I am a Desert Storm Marine with PTSD and being with my fellow combat vets in this environment was very healing.
The Bonfire it's self was a terrific yet very emotional way to let loose our emotions while also honoring the brothers we have lost.
Thank you
This is a wonderful organization that deeply care about the warriors. This is a well ran organization. They have wounded warriors that they have sent to training to go on the events as group leaders so all the warriors feel very comfortable talking about anything
WBP is an awesome non profit that helps Veteran’s like myself learn to cope with issues such as ptsd through outdoor activities. These healing events help us in so many ways it’s life altering. I can say they are one of the few organizations that have truly helped me. So please donate to a great organization!
I was blessed to attend the Strong Spouses retreat in Granby Colorado in September 2020. I had such a wonderful time getting to know other caregivers like myself. Everyone at Warrior Bonfire is so nice that we all felt like part of a larger family in no time at all. I absolutely loved the horse back ride through the Rocky Mountain National Forest. Thank you Warrior Bonfire
Just got back from a California Dreamin trip and it was amazing. The whole experience especially with surfing, was just phenomenal. Mike and Dave were outstanding to us and made sure we were always comfortable, fed, and having a great and safe time. It’s an adventure that continues to give me hope that there’s more and more things I can do even with a prosthetic. Thank you all so much for a great experience and for everything y’all do.
I was blessed to be able to attend the spouse weekend for Purple Heart spouses. I had a wonderful time relaxing with several other wives. The Warrior Bonfire Program gave me several new friends that I cherish. Thank you for an awesome weekend!
After a long and rigorous search for an organisation, I heard about Worrior Bondfire. It focuses on the combat wounded veteran that has the desire to hangout and make new life long friends and have fun getting back in the outdoors.
Amazing group of people who truly care about vets. No pressure and truly safe environment, not to mention so much fun and healing. Helen Phillips is like our mom and takes a care of us before during and after the even.
Ive been on a couple of trips and love the fact it feels like family. Met great peaople and had great times. Proud to be a trip leader and give back to my brothers.
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I am a Iraq veteran who went on a few trip with Warrior bonfire. It outstanding Organization that Put veterans with veterans and making them forget about things they experience in Iraq. It made feel that I was Among My brother again
Warrior Bonfire Program is the real thing! They truly care about the community of service members they work with. Every single interaction, communication, and activity is well planned and executed. Great job!
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Had the best time ever and it felt so good to be around my brothers and sisters. To be able to tell me story and here other stories of how they came to be and share support to each other was great. Highly recommend this to any purple heart/disabled vet
Active, Working, Relaxing,Beautiful Scenery, Some of the Best GI's to hang out with and interesting sharing. The Bonfire ceremony is definitely the highlight, very sobering and one of the best ways to honor our fallen comrades.
The Warrior Bonfire Program has touched my life in ways that words can not describe. Through this program I have not only had life changing experiences but have also made friendships that will be everlasting. Thank you Warrior Bonfire for all that you do!
The Warrior Bonfire Program is a new organization for me. Sometime in 2018 I received an email asking if I was interested in attending their events and for the 2019 Bataan Memorial Death March I was finally able to meet these wonderful people. From the tops of the organization to the volunteers you can tell they truly care about enriching the lives of veterans through outdoor activities. I can't speak highly enough about them! I hope to have the privilege of seeing them again soon.
Great time!!! I was able to talk about and share an event that happened to me for the first time in ten years, a story my wife doesn’t even know.
The bonfire ceremony is something very special, and to have a group of 20 or so civilians watch, and thank us for our sacrifices meant a lot. I was told by one guy “not sure if it was the flag ceremony itself or all the veterans dedicating each stripe to a fallen comrade, but it brought tears to my eyes”. I told him it brings them to mine as well, and it’s all about the brotherhood.
Another civilian asked me how long I had known the other warriors and after I told him I met them “about 12 hours ago” he was shocked. He said “the way you guys talk to each other, and call each other brothers, I thought you’ve been stationed with each other”. I just nodded my head and said “we may have never been stationed together, but we understand each other. This is what our weekend was all about”.
Great time with friends you’ve never met yet.
Warrior bonfire programs has all kind of events that allow wounded vets to spend time and enjoy themselves with other wounded vets while enjoying an event
Amazing organization! I had the opportunity to attend the Best Little Air Show in the World, and blessed! I walked away with more confidence in myself, a better sense of pride and so many new friends. Thank you isn't enough!
Great Organization that cares about what a combat wounded veteran really its going through with his journey after recovery!!
Amazing non profit organization that does exceptional events for Wounded Warriors and they do it for the right reasons! They have a passion for taking care of their Warriors and they make sure that every Warrior is comfortable and prepared for each event as well. The staff are so friendly and kind! Well prepared for every event! Incredible Organization!!
An amazing organization! Getting together with other combat vets and sharing stories and struggles and chiding each other is refreshing for my soul. I push myself further than I thought I could both physically and emotionally.
Had an AWESOME time hunting with Warrior Bonfire Program. The Hospitality, Camaraderie and Hunting was second to none. Thanks for an awesome weekend with fellow Wounded Brothers!
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Warrior Bonfire Program is an Awesome program that allows Purple Heart recipients to get together and enjoy each others company. Whether it be hunting, fishing, skiing or just skeet shooting, it has been an awesome experience. I have made so many friends and experienced things that I probably would have never experienced. Flying in a P51 Mustang is one of those experiences and it is definitely one I will never forget. Anyone who has the opportunity to take part in one of those functions should jump on it because you won't regret it one bit. Can't ask for a better group of people either, friendly, caring and AWESOME.
Warrior Bonfire is a great organization w/ exceptional staff. They go above and beyond to make all the warriors feel comfortable. Hunting w/ them is always a good time. Thank you for everything you guys are doing!!!
Semper Fi
Sam
Mike , Helen and everyone at Warrior Bonfire I want to thank u guys so much for the opportunity to go out an enjoy a wonderful weekend with amazing people I can honestly say this is one of the best organizations I've ever had the privilege of being a part of you guys are amazing, from the time we got there til the time we left you guys really took care of us and went put of your way to make us feel welcomed and comfortable, I had a blast. I really got to enjoyed myself and just be myself you guys do such an outstanding job , I know a lot of work went into this weekend and other bonfires like this and I just to let you guys know that the hard work shows, we appreciate it, and all you guys do for us , i truly believe in this organization and all that it stands for , also I know we all appreciated the flag ceremony it was very meanful and symbolic , the ceremony really brought all of us closer together and gave us some closer even tho mike and I were the only one catching fish lol just playing but thanks again guys Warrior Bonfire Rocks!!!!
One of the great opportunity that I was able to attend as a wounded veteran for the weekend. The people (Mike Voss, Joe Porrazo, & Damien Burch) I met at the bonfire were very generous for their time and for their appreciation of us. I had a wonderful time and had fun the whole time I was there. I can't say enough of how much I was blessed to meet such awesome crew of people that cares for wounded vets and to provide comfort for us. Just want to say thank you very much for this great time and relaxation. Good job to everyone and God Bless!
Absolutely amazing group of people giving back to our nations combat wounded. I have been part of this org for years now and have nothing but respect for them. They are life changing beyond any other organization I know of. Can't say enough good about them!
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I am new to this org, and have been on a wonderful trip with the WBP. Comparing to other non profits, this one is second to none in my opinion. The org has strong roots imbedded in integrity and loyalty to those who have been wounded in combat. Since my trip, the org and it's founder have went out of their way to make me "and others" feel and know we have someone out there just for us. They do these trips and events that bring our Purple Heart recipients together for meaningful, quality, rehabilitating social interaction. Something to many of us lack in our normal "not so normal" lives. I will continue to proudly stand tall with this org and I know they will stand with me. Please help this org, please help our combat wounded. I don't know of another organization that I can truly say " I know there doing the right things for the right reasons". Thank you. And god bless You, America, and our service men and women.
From start to finish the Warrior Bonfire Program was top notch, focusing 100% on the Veterans and their well being. The Warrior Bonfire Program staff were all outstanding and kept in constant communication with the Veterans on my particular trip. The staff setup events and activities that allowed Veterans a judgement free atmosphere to engage in with each other. Overall the Warrior Bonfire Program presented me with a unique Veteran experience that I will remember forever. Thank you very much for allowing me to be part of the Warrior Bonfire Program.
The Bonfire Program was a great way to reconnect with fellow veterans and engage in multiple outdoor activities including: fishing, horse riding, hiking, etc.
The 4 day weekend that I experienced in Colorado among fellow veterans was amazing. I was able to open up and talk about events that took place overseas during combat situations. The most unique experience was meeting veterans from WWII and Vietnam. Being able to express myself with them was very therapeutic.
I look forward to their events because they help me. The staff and volunteers do an amazing job making sure everything runs smoothly.
Thank you for your support!
Best non-profit organization ever!! I got to share an awesome time with incredible people who know how to have a great time. WBP is a great non-profit organization who has their heart in the right place. I even got to spend some time with some wounded veterans that I know that made the experience so much better. The people that run this program have hearts of gold and make your experience more than a cherished moment.
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Best non-profit organization that I know. I've done a few events with The Warrior Bonfire Program, and I know for a fact that they do it right! The friendships and camaraderie that we share in this club is spot on! They are a Purple Heart supporting organization that continues to support veterans and improve the morale of our disabled veterans!!! Outstanding organization!!!
This was a no-bull, care about the individual type program. It wasn't designed for some media stunt but actually understood to gather like minded veterans doing things together in the outdoors. It took my mind off the want to drink heavily and surround me with other hardened dudes that went through and continue to go through the same experiences as myself. I'd recommend to all vets who legitimately struggle with the changes of after service life
I have been involved with Warrior Bonfire Program for two years. Great people that care about Purple Heart vets!
I have avoided becoming involved with any entities proporting to aid wounded veterans for many years. I was physically injured in 25 Jun 1996 by an IED in Saudi Arabia and developed PTSD as a further result. I did my best to stuff all that into a mental "box" and leave it alone until I was put in contact with the Warrior Bonfire team. I am so glad I became involved with the Warrior Bonfire organization. The emotional and mental turmoil I had tried to deal with alone has become far easier to deal with now that I've spent time with others dealing with similar issues in an environment where all are equal and open to sharing. It's a blessing.
Excellent organization for purple heart vets. Some of the nicest, caring people that you will ever meet. I have formed great friendships with organizers of Warrior Bonfire as well as other purple heart veterans that in will keep the rest of my life. Thank you Warrior Bonfire for all that you do for veterans.
Tim Bell
Mississippi
I just spent a weekend with this organization and I am quite impressed. They are addressing a much needed gap that no other group has addressed. Vietnam veterans suffer from many of the same debilitating afflictions that affect the younger veterans.
The way that they were treated after returning from Vietnam was disgraceful and many have had to suffer it in silence. Nowadays, there are many organizations that offer therapeutic services to the current generation of veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan, but sadly ignore the baby boomers. This organization is deserving of everyone's support.
I am a Vietnam veteran. I was put in contact with Warrior Bonfire Program as I was notable to make a trip earlier.
I contacted Mike Foss on Tuesday before the trip, and wow things were moving fast for me. Next thing I new I was eating dinner with some 3 Iraq veterans. They were some great guys, was a little apprehensive at first as to age difference and experience. They quickly made feeling disappear and the host Jim, made me feel comfortable. We gelled together like we were unit buddies.
I can explain the weekend in one word AWESOME. Those guys helped me a lot and looked out for me , they were great. I met some great guys and made new friends. The Capt of the Brian Song and his son could have not been nicer. The host Jim and Kim his wife open their home to us.
We were well feed and the transporter Bob was outstanding.
I had a great experience that will stay with me for a long time.
Thank You Warrior Bonfire Program Mike and Helen Phillips the brought this all together for us 4 veterans
One Awesome weekend it is one of the nicest thing done for my service as a Vietnam veteran since I came home from Asia.
GOD BLESS THESE FOLKS
As a active duty soldier I had the pleasure of being introduced to the Warrior Bonfire Project. Their staff and organization work in the most caring and professional manner I've ever seen I got the opportunity to go on one of their Bonfires and I must say if was truly one of the best experiences of my life a true healing process for soldiers who had came across the endeavors of the battlefield. For a soldier with PTSD.... it was I truly was able to relax and mostly importantly smile which was something I was really never know for thank you to all have volunteered answer donated to this cause.
Sincerely:
SFC Andre J Cordier
US Army Infantry