http://ozarkspub.vo.llnwd.net/o37/KSMU/audio/mp3/archers-raise-their-bows-honor-wounded-soldiers-saturday_45098.mp3
This weekend, Mancave Archery in Mount Vernon will host a "bow shoot" for wounded soldiers. KSMU’s Rebekah Clark has more.
Mancave Archery is owned and operated by a military family. Staff Sergeant Steven Maples owns the business with his wife. When he isn’t operating the shop, he’s out recruiting for the Missouri National Guard.
The idea for this event came last year after Maples had a conversation with a wounded veteran.
“We had a guy come into the shop that was getting ready to go on an elk hunt. He lost his leg in Iraq in 2004. We just got to talking. He had Camp Hope written on his truck. I ask him what it was, when he found out I was in the military, he started telling me about it. From there, it’s grown into a deal where we’re trying to use our anniversary shoot, instead of (being) beneficial to us, we’re using it to benefit Camp Hope.”
A "bow shoot" is, like it sounds, an event where arrows fly, hopefully to their targets.
All proceeds from the event will go to the Camp Hope Foundation, a retreat for wounded military veterans located southeast of St. Louis. All archers, from kids to senior citizens, are welcome to participate.
Camp Hope is a retreat for military veterans wounded in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. It sits on a large farmstead with creeks, hiking paths and wildlife. During hunting seasons, Camp Hope offers free trips and lodging.
Maples says he's had over 100 people RSVP.
“I have no idea, I hope for a large turnout. We’ve had hundreds of people that have said they are going to be here. We have people coming from multiple different states, from Wisconsin, Utah, Wyoming, Tennessee, so we’re hoping the turnout is good. You know, 500 – 700 people would be great.”
You can visit www.ManCaveArchery.com for more information.
For KSMU News, I’m Rebekah Clark.
TAG: Starting on Friday (9/7), attendants of the shootout can come and help themselves to an all-you-can-eat pig roast and live music provided by Mancave. On Saturday (9/8), the business will host an all-day shoot out for people all ages. Breakfast and lunch will be served.