Post by Decatur on Aug 23, 2006 12:08:27 GMT -5
June 6, 2006
BOWTECH PARTICIPATES IN A "TRIBUTE"
TO THOSE WOUNDED WHILE SERVING OVERSEAS
Memorial Day, originally called Declaration Day, is a day to remember those who have died in service to their country — and outdoor enthusiasts have always had a special appreciation of what these heroes put on the line as a part of their commitment to protect our way of life.
That’s why Dewayne Tiller, General Manager of BowTech joined popular TV host Keith Warren of Hunting and Outdoor Adventures with Keith Warren in a recent "Sportsmen Saying Thanks" event in Texas that offered participants a chance to truly give back to those who have selflessly served our nation.
This was an opportunity for Bowtech to further demonstrate its commitment to supporting our troops, as the company already contributes a portion of the proceeds from each Bowtech Tribute™ bow sale to the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS). Each year, this non-profit Veteran Service Organization offers comfort, support and assistance to hundreds of American families who face the tragedy of losing a loved one in the armed forces.
The two leaders headed an army of 110 volunteers as they converged on the Brooke Army Medical Center to serve a Texas BBQ with all the trimmings to 200-300 deserving soldiers just home from Iraq and Afghanistan and on the mend in the rehab center.
Being able to see past the scars, to what was on the inside of these brave veterans was a lesson no one in attendance is likely to forget, according to Tiller. And the learning experience wasn’t just for the adults, as many of the people who served were 10-13 year old students from a local school. While waiting tables, picking up plates or filling glasses, these children had the opportunity to get up close and personal with true American heroes.
"The event meant a lot to the soldiers there, but it was a great eye opener for me and other adults in attendance," said Tiller. "And I believe it’s definitely something that made a lasting impression on the kids there who had a chance to see that freedom comes with a cost. Any time we have an opportunity to say thank you to these men and women, we should, so they will understand what their sacrifices mean to us all."
Tiller understands what it means to be away from home and in harm’s way. In 2003 he spent time in Iraq with a disaster relief organization working on a water purification effort in the area. "I know some of the sacrifices those serving overseas have made," said Tiller. "It’s hard to be so far away from home."
Tiller was right at home at the event in Texas however. "The man was a bull out there — from conducting an inspiring opening blessing to jumping from table to table feeding people all night long — he was tireless." said Roger Bales, assistant to Keith Warren.
Over and above rolling up his sleeves to serve our nations finest at the event, Tiller’s personal experience on the front lines motivated a deep need to show his appreciation in another way. Upon meeting two of the injured soldiers who shared their interest in bowhunting with him, Tiller then arranged for custom-made BowTech Tribute Bows for the two men.
"We were all happy to have this chance to serve those who have selflessly provided service to our country," said Tiller. "It was an honor to pay tribute to them for their sacrifices — and to simply say thank you."
Bowtech manufactures and distributes the world’s finest compound bows and archery equipment. Founded in 1999, Bowtech’s corporate offices are located on the outskirts of Eugene, Oregon. Bowtech divisions include Waterdog Surface Technologies, formed in December 2003 and Diamond Archery, acquired in September, 2004. To learn more about BowTech, contact the company at 90553 Highway 99 North, Eugene, OR 97402 (541) 284-4711. Or visit www.bowtecharchery.com.
Editor’s Note: For hi-res digital images and releases, please visit our online Press Room at www.bearemg.com
