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The Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center is once again hosting a free trip for veterans to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area in Northern Minnesota this summer. From July 10th to 16th 2023.
This will be the fifth year and trip number 7 that the Center has offered. The trip is for any veteran that would like to get away for a week from the hustle and bustle. It offers them a chance to reconnect with nature and reset themselves. It is also for those that are disabled or dealing with PTSD and other specified traumas. “This is just a great trip for veterans and a way to give back to the veterans that have given and sacrificed so much to us,” says Executive Director John Gidley. “Part of the mission of the Richard I Bong Veterans Historical Center is to provide programs that support our veterans. Veterans give so much to our local communities that we want to do our part to give back to them as well. Thankfully through the generosity of area sponsors we are able to provide this wonderful opportunity for them.”
There are many issues facing veterans today. In an effort to assist in healing and building healthy relationships within the community, the Center is offering these BWCA trips for veterans. Participants will enjoy a week of fishing, canoeing, and camping with fellow veterans. By bringing veterans into the wilderness away from noises and stress, the hope is it will help them heal, recover and just relax.
In order to educate the public, the Center relies on veterans to provide their stories and artifacts. We appreciate the trust veterans place in us to tell their stories and want to give back to the veteran community.
Duane Lasley, a retired Captain with U.S. Army from Duluth first went on the trip in 2018 and is now volunteering his time for the trip. He states, “I was fortunate enough to go on a past trip and it was an amazing experience. I am doing what I can to help others enjoy a similar experience.”
The Center will be taking a small group of veterans and two group leaders up to Ely MN, where they will spend a night at a local resort before heading into the BWCA the next day. All of the outfitting equipment will be provided for each participant. On the sixth day, the group will return to the resort before a return trip to Superior the next day.
Interested veterans can apply for the trip through the Center’s website at www.bongcenter.org or stop by the Center for an application. They may also call the Center at 715-392-7151 and request an application be sent to them. Applicants wishing to be part of the first review of applications need to submit all materials by Friday, May 26th. A final deadline for consideration is set for Friday, June 2nd for those who miss the first review date.
Individuals, businesses, or organizations that are interested in donating towards this program may contact Executive Director John Gidley via email at gidley@bongcenter.org or at the Center.
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