Warriors and Quiet Waters Foundation

Bozeman-based Warriors and Quiet Waters Foundation (WQW) has a mission as simple as it is profound: using the experience of fly-fishing “ to help heal “traumatically wounded U.S. servicemen and women.”  For those of us who have lost ourselves in the reverie of seeking rainbows and browns, this needs no further explanation.  The peace and solace that drift through oneself with the currents of fishing Montana’s special rivers and waters is often inexpressible, always uplifting, and forever a pool of special memories.

WQW runs a string of fishing trips each year from May through October, leading more than three dozen wounded vets on adventures most of them had never contemplated.  Wounded warriors, returning from exotically dangerous military actions from around the world enjoy several  full days of guided fishing on America’s best trout streams as well as a special side-trip to Yellowstone National Park.  Warriors and their spouses or friends are flown free to Gallatin Field near Bozeman. They are outfitted, head-to-toe, in fishing gear, are housed together in private residences and enjoy hearty, home-cooked meals.  Oh, and they get to keep all the gear, a gift from WQW which the founders hope will keep on giving.

         “We talk about our trip almost daily, and have many great memories as well.”

There is perhaps no better therapy than that offered by WQW. Medical services and aids may heal the body, may settle the mind, but it is the spirit which is treated, uplifted, even exalted by this intimate, joyful  connection with nature and oneself, and with Montanans who care.

If you wish to know more about the Warriors and Quiet Waters Foundation, contact Dave Shepherd at 539-7878; or go to warriorsandquietwaters.org .  Donations are welcome.