JOINT BASE CHARLESTON, S.C. –
Joint Base Charleston held its second annual Wounded Warrior Deer Hunt Oct. 2 and 3, at Marrington Plantation on the Weapons Station.
Seven wounded warriors from the Wounded Warrior program were given the opportunity to deer hunt for two days thanks to this initiative which provides therapeutic outdoor recreational activities and camaraderie to active-duty Wounded Warriors who are engaged in ongoing recovery and rehabilitation programs.
Both mornings of the hunt began with volunteer game wardens escorting the Wounded Warriors to their designated hunting locations throughout Marrington Plantation, 1,600 acres of pristine woodlands on Joint Base Charleston that now serves as one of the premier military recreational facilities in the world.
The hunting locations were carefully selected for safety and to ensure the wardens knew exactly where everyone was located. From there, they were able to hunt for deer throughout the morning.
"It was an awesome experience," said Marine Sgt. Isles Oriel, a Wounded Warrior from Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va. "Everyone involved in the organization worked together very well. Every time I got into a tree stand, I was able to shoot a deer."
Oriel brought down deer on both days of the event, including a nine-point buck.
"Joint Base Charleston military, civilian and community volunteers came together to put on this second annual Wounded Warrior [hunt]," said Terrence Larimer, Joint Base Charleston Natural and Cultural Resources manager. "And we're thankful for their support,"
"These men gave so much for their country," said Eugene Martin, a local resident and volunteer at Marrington Plantation. "The least I can do is give back to them."
And through the significant participation of the Lowcountry Chief Petty Officer's Association, Larimer was able to expand the number of event volunteers, keeping the two day hunt running smoothly.
"Their support along with volunteers from the base's Natural Resource program was invaluable," said Larimer. "With that continued support we hope to expand to 15 Wounded Warrior participants next year."
For more information on how to get involved in next year's Wounded Warrior hunt, contact Terrence Larimer at (843) 794-7951.