Testimonials
MASTER AT ARMS 2nd Class Petty Officer Stephanie Patton
For 4 days this week, I was in Ohio at a veterans retreat. This was started by my friend Terri and her husband Jason who are both navy veterans too; Terri and I served together. I had a great time, much needed peace after everything that happened with granny. There's a home on the property with 2 bedrooms for use (air bnb style) as well as 2 little cabins outback with cots for anyone who'd like a more rustic experience. They have 23+ acres for hunting (bow) in the winter months as well as a newly dug and stocked pond for fishing.
The landscape is beautiful, l've never been to Ohio before... soooo many lightning bugs which brought me back to when I was a little girl. We did a little hike (didn't think l'd survive =), saw birds, deer, etc... just so relaxing and peaceful. The last day I was there we set up a booth at a local fireworks show where we spoke with many people and got more exposure and donations for their vision. This place is a non profit and so they operate strictly on donations; it is 100% free for vets (except their food lol). If anyone's looking for a good cause to donate to, please consider this one if any of my vet friends are interested or anyone who knows a vet is interested, please check out their Facebook or instagram pages.
Thanks again to Terri and Jason, I throughly enjoyed it and hope to go back again
HOSPITAL CORPSMAN 2nd Class Petty Officer SHARLEAN MACE
My experience with Warriors to Wilderness has been nothing short of transformative. As someone who has struggled with PTSD, I found that traditional methods weren't enough to bring me the peace I desperately sought. My first introduction to Warriors to Wilderness was through one of their therapeutic bow hunting sessions. The experience was profoundly calming, and being immersed in nature allowed me to confront my PTSD in a way that felt safe and healing. The quiet of the woods, the focus required for bow hunting, and the supportive environment offered by the team all contributed to a sense of peace I hadn’t felt in years.
After that incredible experience last fall, I noticed that Warriors to Wilderness was offering four-day retreats. Given the positive impact of the hunting session, I didn't hesitate to book one. The retreat exceeded all my expectations. The beautiful scenery and well-maintained nature trails provided the perfect backdrop for reflection and relaxation. The serenity within the lodge was palpable, providing a safe haven where you could truly unwind.
One of the highlights of the retreat was the sense of camaraderie I felt with fellow veterans. I was able to connect with another veteran in a deep and meaningful way, something that’s often hard to achieve in everyday life. The lodge stay was exceptional—comfortable, beautifully appointed, and situated in a peaceful location that was perfect for grounding myself.
This experience has been so valuable to my mental health that I will definitely be booking another retreat next spring or summer. I wholeheartedly recommend Warriors to Wilderness to any veteran looking for a therapeutic environment to help manage PTSD. The blend of nature, activities, and genuine support makes it an unparalleled sanctuary for healing and personal growth.
Sharlean Mace
Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class
Master At Arms Chief Petty Officer Charles Neal
Hey Brother,
I can't thank you, and the W2W organization enough! These past few days have been amazing! Even though the hunt wasn't successful in getting a deer, it gave me a place to relax and reconnect with a hobby I have been "more or less" avoiding since November 2011!
Thank you for listening to me rant about the Navy, my story, and life in general! I never felt as if I wasn't welcomed or I was just here so that an organization could say that they sponsored a Vet! Like you said, "It's like we were/are old buddies," and we were just getting back together!
I look forward to coming back in January!
Thank you again,
Chuck
Bob Hummel - U.S. Army Veteran
Thanks to Jason and Teri for helping me get my claims going with the VA such great people helping veteran's with all their needs such kind compassionate people
Petty Officer 1st Class Alejandro Gonzales
Beyond grateful for the opportunity to come out to Warriors 2 Wilderness - W2W and participate in this hunt. Thank you Jason Maxwell and Everyone else on the staff who made this happen from Terri Booking everything, to the range coaches and guides. if you are a veteran or you know a veteran who can benefit from wilderness emersion therapy ( doesn't have to be a hunt) check out this amazing organization.
- Alejandro Gonzales
U. S. Navy Seabee - Retired