An event unfolded in Stanton on Friday, Feb. 9, as the Permian Warrior Partnership (PWP) and Battle Dawgs joined forces to host the inaugural sporting clay shoot fundraiser, featuring a clay pigeon shootout, a live auction, and the esteemed presence of Medal of Honor Recipient Earl Plumlee and his 1st Group Special Forces team.
The event showcased a clay pigeon shooting competition, a live auction, and raffles featuring firearms, Special Operations whiskey bottles, and a unique chance to join teams with Plumlee and each of his comrades. Attendees engaged in a bidding war for opportunities to join teams with Plumlee and his team during the shooting competition, with the highest bid to join Plumlee reaching $1,600.
Addressing the gathering, Plumlee shared his inspirational journey leading to the Medal of Honor, noting that this event marked the first time his entire team had convened for a collective gathering. Plumlee received a standing ovation from the audience after telling his story.
"It's extremely meaningful for us to be able to do these events together and get the community to understand what we're doing through Battle Dawgs,” said Plumlee in an interview with Midland Times. “We hope to create that space to assist veterans in each community when they are having a hard time and need help getting back together."
Plumlee ended with his appreciation for the event, saying, "Good people, good food, good times - it can't get better than that.”
The Permian Warrior Partnership, anchored in the Permian Basin, orchestrates local services and opportunities for veterans, spanning housing, employment, enrollment in VA e-benefits, healthcare, recreation, and more.
Battle Dawgs, on the other hand, takes veterans on outdoor trips in Alaska, fostering connections among veterans and rekindling the camaraderie lost after their return from service. The program unfolds in three phases: Phase One focuses on outdoor rehabilitation, Phase Two pairs mentoring warriors with entry-level camps, and Phase Three integrates program graduates into planning camps, selecting warriors, and preparing programs.
Both Battle Dawgs and the Permian Warrior Partnership have a shared mission: combating veteran suicide and addressing mental health challenges often faced by veterans. These programs are dedicated to enhancing the overall quality of life for veterans, and events like the clay shoot fundraiser serve as a testament to their commitment to making a positive impact in the veteran community.
Visit the Permian Warrior Partnership website to learn more about how community members can help veterans in the Permian Basin. For additional details about Battle Dawgs and their impact, visit their website.
