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            The Wounded Warriors Outdoors Project has taken place over the last two summers here in Kodiak. Beginning in July, a new group of veterans will be arriving to participate in this year’s program. Mary Donaldson has more.

The Wounded Warrior Project is a nonprofit organization based out of Jacksonville, Florida, that helps severely injured soldiers recover and attempt to lead a normal day-to-day life after war. Peter Malley, a Vietnam War veteran, is an organizer for the Outdoor Project in Kodiak. In 2006, he brought vets from the Iraq and Afghanistan wars to Kodiak. The project originally began with former Marines looking to improve the quality of life for those who have served after war.

            (Outdoors 1                :58s     “…and become very popular.”)

Malley says there are many benefits for participants.

            (Outdoors 3                1:04     “…with their injuries.”)

He says he became interested because he wanted to show injured veterans how to integrate back into society with outdoor activities in Kodiak.

            (Outdoors 2                :23s     “…and that was two years ago.”)

            The Wounded Warriors also benefit by being able to network with other veterans from around the country.

This year Malley says about 40 vets are due to arrive to the island this summer, with about 20 the first week and another 20 the second week. As in years past, they can expect to be busy with fun activities both indoor and out, like fishing, boating and dinners in their honor.

One thing that continues to surprise Malley is the how the community has supported this program over the past two years.

(Outdoors 5                :20s     “…once again.”)

The participants in the Wounded Warriors Project Outdoors 2008 will be arriving to town beginning July 15th. Anyone interested in contributing services or volunteering for the project can do so by contacting Malley at 486-8252. The Wounded Warrior program has a variety of support programs and services for veterans that can be found online at wounded warrior project-dot-O-R-G.

            I’m Mary Donaldson.

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