From Healing to Giving Back

We headed to Pangburn, Arkansas, for a brand-new Warrior Bonfire retreat: Hooks, Hills, and Hidden Waters!

Based at Red River Trout Dock Resort, our Purple Hearts will spent two days fly fishing for trout along the river before heading to Greers Ferry Lake for a half day of walleye, bass, and crappie fishing. With experienced guides supporting every skill level—and spin casting available for those who prefer it—everyone can enjoy the water at their own pace.

But the adventure didn’t stop there. Depending on the group’s interests, the retreat also included exploring underground caverns, hiking through the Arkansas hills, or getting the adrenaline pumping with some high-speed go-karting.

With cozy cabin lodging, beautiful waterways, peaceful mornings, and plenty of adventure, this retreat offered the perfect balance of getting out there and taking time to slow down and breathe.

But what made this retreat especially meaningful was its story.

One of our own Purple Heart members, Justin Elmer, created, planned, and led Hooks, Hills, and Hidden Waters.

After experiencing the impact of Warrior Bonfire retreats firsthand, Justin wanted to give back. He took the connection and camaraderie he had found through his own experiences and turned it into an opportunity for other Purple Hearts to experience the same.

That spirit of paying it forward is at the heart of Warrior Bonfire.

Many of our Purple Hearts arrive at their first retreat looking for connection, camaraderie, or simply a chance to spend time around others who understand what they’ve been through. Over time, some want to give that experience to the next veteran—to step up, lead, and help someone else along the same journey.

Justin did exactly that.

Of course, a retreat like this doesn’t happen without a community willing to stand behind our veterans. A huge thank you to Orr Toyota, One Bite Meat Market, LLC, Smokin T’s Southern Cooking, I AM Archery, and Central Arkansas Karting Complex for your generosity and support.

And to the local community who welcomed our Purple Hearts, pitched in, and helped make the retreat such a success—thank you. Your support made a difference.

Justin’s story is a powerful reminder that the impact of a Warrior Bonfire retreat doesn’t necessarily end when everyone goes home. It can continue forward.

A Purple Heart finds connection. Begins to heal. Discovers a renewed sense of purpose. And then turns around to help the next warrior do the same.

That’s how a retreat becomes a community.

It’s another opportunity for Purple Heart veterans to come together, build friendships, share experiences, and spend time with people who understand.

Cast a line. Chase an adventure. Find your people. Then help someone else find theirs.