AMERICAS WARRIOR PROJECT

 It took me 3 years to finally get myself to do a weekend program and it was an experience I will never forget. It was so warm, inviting and being around other veterans help me lower my guard for a fun weekend. I will never forget that time on that weekend and it is so amazing to be able to give back and cook for this upcoming season. Thank you to board and all the volunteers and all the people who make Americas Warrior Project something truly special that changes lives and helps veterans come out of their shell and enjoy a weekend with other veterans. 

 -Adam Lee Gutierrez- USMC 

 In the summer of 2019 I attended America's Warrior Project. To be completely honest, I needed a weekend with like-minded people and a moment to breathe. What I got was a lot more - the first thing I appreciated right from the start was that this program wasn't about 'how I felt', we spent time together as brothers and sisters, learning how to do cool stuff while being taught by incredible people.  I was partnered up with a horse I had never met before, named "Bently." Me and Ol' 'Bent became buddies. This has taken me a while to write, because I wanted to get it right. I cannot claim this program saved my life; what it did do, is change my path. It also gave me a chance to prove to myself (even in the the sate of mind I was in at the time) that I was still able to learn and make new friends."  -Skyler Pelous - Airforce 

 AWP is a fully engaging experience, introducing new skills of traditional instinctual archery, horsemanship along with other ancient martial arts such as Axe / tomahawk throwing. This venue creates a common bond of community and engagement for all Veterans, that isn't wrapped in a system of lovy dovy cry on your shoulder bullshit.
-Matthew - Navy Seal (2000-2015)

" I enjoyed coming so that I could put everyday stresses of everyday life behind for awhile. The organization and camaraderie of the "cadre" [AWP staff and volunteers] was great"

-Julie Sole - Marine

I had a blast with my fellow Veterans learning mounted archery.  It was a great environment hanging with other Vets that "Just get it" Plus great food and throwing Tomahawks!  What more could a Vet want?

-Garcia Mitchell ARNG (2005-Current)

"In the evening after a great meal, gathering around the fire for music and laughter, veterans gathering together was just amazing ."
 -Bo Russle- Army (Vietnam)

"My experience with the Americas Warrior Project and horseback archery in general has exceeded my expectations in all ways. The people involved and their personalities are what make this program such a wonderful and very positive environment. This isn't the kind of thing you go to if you're looking for one of those "how does this make you feel therapy sessions" or if you're looking for a place to feel sorry for yourself . It is  however the kind of place you go to spend time around positive people that have had similar experiences that can shed light and help guide you out of the dark. I have received more from this program than I even knew  I  was ever looking for and I've enjoyed every minute of it. 

I highly encourage anyone who has served any amount of time in any branch whether you saw combat directly or not you have earned this and so much more. Come out and enjoy a weekend of fun and camaraderie with like-minded people and try a new skill. 

-SMSGT Brain J. Parr - USAF Retired

"the volunteers, the cabins, the entire environment was great. Just a great time and I can't wait to come back.

 -Dan Merrill - Army

"This program changes lives, has direct, long lasting impacts that can be seen almost immediately, and provides amazing opportunities for service members of all branches and generations to heal, and bond together, leaving more fulfilled than they arrived"

-Killian Lesley - Army

"This experience has been more then I could have ever expected. The location is absolutely amazing. Another calming force for me; incredible compassion and knowledge. I felt safe."

-Brenna Toel - Marine 

I wanted to come because I was told it was a place to talk to fellow Vets and learn to Shoot the bow.  Something I have struggled with since being separated from other Vets was never feeling understood, this place really helped me come back to realize where I fit in.  I really liked being here and being able to talk with other Veterans.

-Ethan Lowell Cape -U.S. Navy

With never have rode a horse in my life and without touching a bow or arrows for ten years, it was a memorable experience.  I gained confidence with both bow and horse. Being able to take a breath to sit down with other Veterans and talk about anything was completely refreshing.  With a no pressure relaxed atmosphere I would totally recommend this to all Vets.

-Nick Hunt - Army ( 2011-2014)