April 4th, 2009
July 25th, 2009
Oct 3rd, 2009
Muskegon Pistol and Rifle Club
Holton Township Mi.

May 17 2009
Deer Creek Conservation Club, Gas City, Indiana

A Day for a Vet

Erie County Conservation League (ECCL)

August 2, 2009

August 2, 2009 started out as special day for the members and guests that were present to participate in the presentation of an M1 Garand to Daniel Priestley (retired Gunny, (Dan)) and a veteran from the War on Terror. 

A local Boy Scout troop performed the honors of raising the United States Flag and a “Missing in Action” Flag.  An honor guard from the Sandusky AMVETS was present and added to a great patriotic feeling for those present.

The M1 Garand was presented to Dan for his service and what he gave for this country.  Dan was hurt two years ago in Iraq defending the United States against terrorist. He was a Gunnery Sergeant on patrol when his group was hit. His Hum V was hit with an explosive device. Several of his fellow solders lost their lives or were severely wounded and Dan was given his last rights as he was that critical.

Dan has gone through 29 operations and will have several more on his left leg. As he walked , he would step on a stone and the pain was tremendous, but not a word was said. The same happened when he lay down to shoot prone and the sun seemed to sap the strength from him. When asked how he was doing his comment was “I’m not the same as I was”.

Dan was set up at the 25 yard range to zero in the M1.  His 1^st two shots were dead center.  Dan’s wife, never having the opportunity to fire a gun was by his side for support as she has been from the beginning.  So the instructors convinced his wife to shoot a 22 caliber rifle and later shot Dan’s AR15 and put all shots on target.

He was very appreciative when he received the M1 and at the same time very humble. As the day proceeded and we talked with Dan, I realized that we were standing next to, not only an American Hero, but an Outstanding Person.

Thank you Dan Priestly for serving America and it is an honor to know you!

Sincerely,

Personnel from Erie County Conservation League.

Written by: Bernie Bong, Member ECCL

November 15, 2009

M1 for Vets” Purpose:

Transitioning combat wounded veterans for the purpose of competing in national shooting sports.  “M1 For Vets” is a non-profit organization dedicated to financial and logistical support of returning Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom, and the Global War on Terror veterans.

M1 for Vets” Goal:

To give transitioning combat wounded veterans an opportunity to get back on the rifle range to participate in shooting competition. “M1 for Vets” will make logistical arrangements and work with them to make the adjustments that are necessary to achieve a stable firing position. These are tough young men and women who quickly adapt and are able to overcome difficulties.

M1 for Vets” Process:

All nominations are processed through fellow brothers in arms. Upon being nominated by a potential transitioning combat wounded veteran representative “M1 for Vets” refurbishes an M1 or other suitable rifle for donation and the scheduling process begins. The presentation location is selected (usually at a local range that is having a shooting competition) and the arrangements required to logistically support and get the recipient to that location are set in motion.

Purpose of this match:  To raise funds and bring awareness for the M1 for Vets Program.

Location:  Tucson Rifle Club is located about 25 miles west of downtown Tucson, Arizona on State Route 86 (Ajo Way). The entrance to the range is on the north side, about 2.5 miles west of Robles Junction (Three Points) just past Mile Post 148.
Sign in and Squading:  All competitors and spectators must sign in at range office prior to going to the Thousand Yard Range.  All squading and firing will be done at the 200 yard line.

Match Date and Time:  Sunday, November 15, 2009. Squading starts at 7:00 A.M. Match starts at 8:00 A.M.

Entries:  Entries will be accepted up to start of firing.  Range capacity 60 competitors.  Make all checks payable to “M1 For Vets”

Advance Entries close on Nov. 11, 2009:  $25 per adult shooter and $15 for juniors. 

Match Day: Match fee plus $5 Late Fee

Mail entry form and all fees to:
M1 for Vets” Goal:

To give transitioning combat wounded veterans an opportunity to get back on the rifle range to participate in shooting competition.

Purpose of this match:  To raise funds and bring awareness for the M1 for Vets Program.

Rifle Categories: Three service rifle categories only with metallic sights only; no optical sights. Vintage, Modern, and unlimited (match grade) rifles.

Course of fire: Five sighting shots followed by 40 record shots. All shots fired at 200 yards.

Fees: Advanced entries $25 adults and $15 juniors.  $5 extra after Nov. 12, 2009. Range capacity 60 competitors.

Sponsors: American Legion Post #36 and Sons of American Legion Post #36.

Information:  Jeffrey Schneider (520) 419-4130 or e mail bronte1@mindspring.com