Press Releases
CELEBRATING VETERAN’S DAY COULDN’T BE BETTER THAN IN GLEASON WISCONSIN
COUNTRY HAVEN FARM PROJECT IS UNDERWAY TO PROVIDE A GREAT NORTHWOODS RETREAT FOR WISCONSIN VETERANS AND THEIR FAMILIES!
CONTACT: VICKIE FRANK 920.203.8692 715-873-3496 VFRANK1968@GMAIL.COM
WEBSITE: WWUWI.ORG
FB: WOUNDED WARRIORS UNITED WISCONSIN
LOCATION: W14743 1ST Ave, Gleason WI 54435
Wounded Warriors United of Wisconsin has been providing nationwide hunting and fishing opportunities to Wisconsin Veterans (always free of charge) since 2015. It has been our dream to develop a north woods getaway for veterans to relax and unwind from the daily struggles and challenges that many encounter.
That dream is becoming a reality with support of local donors. Here is our story!
Our goal is very simple but unique: Wounded Warriors United of Wisconsin has served hundreds of Wisconsin heroes over the last 6 years. We wanted to do more. It became clear through talking with veterans and observing veteran interactions during hunting and fishing trips, talking to spouses and relatives, that some of our veterans prefer a quiet place to get away. They simply may need a break, or a place to hang out with another veteran to decompress or for a hunting or fishing getaway. Whatever their need, Country Haven Farm will provide a place for them to stay – always free of charge. When they are here, they can interact with the farm animals who are all quite friendly and charming! If they would like to help with the farm chores for fun, they can do that too!
The north woods of Wisconsin hold so many outdoor sporting opportunities for our veterans and many whom cannot afford to come and stay to participate now can come to the farm and feel that they can still get out and hunt, fish, trail ride or hike without the burden of an expensive resort or where they may not feel comfortable. Our goal is to provide them a place to just “be”. No questions asked. They will have as much privacy as they desire as the guest residence will be a completely separate guest home overlooking woods and farm fields under clear starry skies.
Our location is perfect. We are surrounded by hundreds of acres of public hunting land, trails, lakes and streams. The farm is picturesque and quiet. An occasional moo from our cows or hee haw from our mini donkeys will break the silence on occasion. Our hope is to make veterans aware of what will be available to them 52 weeks a year. They are welcome to bring their families too. Many veterans are not able to get away with family due to the cost; so we can help another way too.
Our veterans and their families tell us often that after being part of our experiences, that they feel so appreciated and grateful at the same time.
Last May, 13 full one week stays and deluxe cabins in the Sayner area were donated to 13 veterans and their families. We held a banquet for them and 13 fishing guides donated a morning of fishing. The veterans couldn’t believe what beautiful cabins they were provided with. More importantly a younger veteran was so touched he told me that he could never take his family anywhere due to financial restraints and this was just an overwhelming week for him and his family.
We are doing all that we can to move our project along, here is what we have done to date:
April 9th – we moved in!
April 19th – Some animals arrived…..and…..
Otto has built over 2000 feet of pasture fencing, replaced all vertical beams in the barn, completely removed and emptied the dairy stations, scrap and debris, torn down some old structure, cleaned up the property, filled and compacted the main barn floor (where the new concrete floor will go), built new inside pens as we can find rough cut lumber for, and we are still building pens. We had some electrical problems to overcome and had to put in a new water line for the animals. So far we are expecting baby goats any day now! A Scottish Highland calf in January and three new baby Jenny miniature donkeys will be arriving on November 6th to join the barnyard of pygmy and fainting goats, miniature donkeys, Scottish Highland Cows and Mangalitsa Pigs. It’s a unique place of tranquility, fun and relaxation unlike any other.
ABC Supply and Sonnentag Family Foundation/County Materials have made donations to help with structural changes in the barn. But more help is needed to get the retreat up and running!
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We are looking now for financial help to build and furnish the guest cottage. We are in the final stages of putting together our fundraising campaign and go fund me page. We will be offering naming rights to the guest cottage, offering a “buy a beam” “build a pen” “buy a block” program as well as project based needs such as feed, equipment, internet and satellite TV for the guest cottage, etc.
Here is a link to the article in the recent Antigo Daily Journal for your review
Wounded Warriors United of Wisconsin is a 501c3 non-profit organization. We are independent, are all volunteer and serve all Wisconsin veterans.
Our website: www.wwuwi.org
Facebook: Wounded Warriors United Wisconsin
Testimonial from a recent Veteran, Andrew, who came to stay at Country Haven Farm.
I first met Otto after seeing a post on Facebook about getting veterans together for a coyote hunt 5 years ago. I messaged Otto and drove across the state not knowing what I was getting into. Upon arrival it was a casual get together with some other vets, dinner and a coyote hunting seminar. I went out with my guides into the -5 degree weather for the night and was hooked!
The next morning we all met up again, chatted about the hunt and headed home. I stayed in touch with Otto, participated in a few other events and we quickly became friends.
Since attending the coyote hunt I’ve had the privilege of becoming more involved with WWU and in turn began helping with the events and helping other veterans. Otto and I setup a deer camp, coyote hunts and the WWU Warriors on the Water event.
I didn’t know the amount of fulfillment I would find giving back to those who give so much and ask for nothing in return.
WWU of WI and Otto have an amazing organization. The look on another veterans face when they talk about the events afterwards is awesome. The friends and memories that are made are priceless. It always puts a smile on my face when I attend an event and see another veteran I met thru WWU, the handshakes and catching up, sharing adventures and stories, and always checking on each other.
WWU isn’t just about hunting and fishing, it’s much much more. It’s about helping, opening up and connecting veterans across the state and lifetime bonds.
I’m proud to call Otto my friend. His hard work, never quit attitude, and passion for WWU is amazing. The new hobby farm he and Vickie are setting up for veterans and their families shows their dedication and love for helping others. I recently visited and didn’t want to leave. Otto put me to work unloading hay, helping with whatever he asked and all I could do was think how does he do this alone? That’s the kind person Otto is though. I can’t wait to visit again soon and for other veterans to be able to bring their families up once the farm is officially opened.
Thank you Otto Reetz and Vickie Frank for all that you do.
Andy

Country Haven Farm – A retreat for Wisconsin Veterans and their families
Wounded Warriors United of Wisconsin is proud to announce the development of Country Haven Farm. This farm will become a private retreat for any veteran or veteran and family to have a quiet place to stay to relax and enjoy Wisconsin’s North Woods.
Located at W14743 1st Avenue, in Gleason Wisconsin, this Langlade County retreat will feature a 2 bedroom 1 bath guest cottage where any Wisconsin veteran whether accompanied with family members or other veterans as a place to get away from it all. Free of charge.
The farm will feature a variety of friendly animals including pygmy and fainting goats, Mangolista pigs, Scottish Highland cows, Miniature donkeys and a unique chicken town themed after Dodge City of the show Gunsmoke.
Guests can interact and relax with the animals, help with farm chores, or simply use the home as a place to stay as they enjoy a getaway from home or life’s daily struggles that so many of our veterans face.
Currently the farm is in need of volunteer labor and materials, and funds to complete our vision.
Help is needed in the following areas: Re-roof small loafing barn, lumber and materials to build out the guest cottage, cement to level the main barn flooring for safety, plumbing for barn water line system, electrical materials for barn and guest house to name a few.
You can be proud to donate to this project and partner with Wounded Warriors United of Wisconsin. Trust in knowing where your donations are going and that they stay local. You can see the difference your donations make as they stay right here to benefit Wisconsin military veterans. All donors will be permanently honored at the farm. We estimate a fund raising goal of $200,000 to complete all major projects to make this a retreat like no other in the country.
If you would like to make a donation or sponsorship please reach out to Otto Reetz or Vickie Frank at 920.470.1845. You can also email Otto at ottoreetz@sbcglobal.net or to Vickie at vfrank1968@gmail.com. We are happy to visit your organization, civic group or school to tell you more and answer any questions you may have.
Visit our website at www.wwuwi.org to see all of the other hunting and fishing opportunities we provide to veterans each year! Always at NO cost to the veterans. We are very active on Facebook where you can see lots of updates on this new phase of our organization.
Wounded Warriors United of Wisconsin Inc. is a 501C3 nonprofit organization dedicated to the mission of empowering our Wisconsin veterans by getting them into the outdoors on hunting and fishing trips. Uniting Heroes Outdoors is our motto. We have been proudly serving veterans since 2015. It is an honor for us to serve and your support helps us to continue our mission.
Thank you,
Otto Reetz, President
Wounded Warriors United of Wisconsin
920.470.1845
ottoreetz@sbcglobal.net
Vickie Frank
Wounded Warriors United of Wisconsin
920.203.8692
Vfrank1968@gmail.com
Warriors on the Water This Saturday!
A massive group of Veterans from all over Wisconsin gather at Skipper Buds Marina for a large fishing event!
This is a public event! Everyone is invited and encouraged to attend! Don’t miss this one!
What’s Happening?
Warriors on the Water! This 2nd annual event to benefit Wounded Warriors United of
Wisconsin will be taking over 65 veterans coming from all over Wisconsin to be hosted for a day of fishing and recognition by volunteer fishermen coming from as far as Minnesota!
An impressive on site Silent Auction and Raffle including a new boat, hunting blinds, fish finders, art work, custom corn hole set, hunting gear, fishing gear, and so much more will be up for the bidding for lucky winners.
The public is encouraged to come out from 11am – 4pm to help support and recognize the veterans as they come up on stage to talk about their experience. It will be a fun afternoon for all. Come out and see the Schneider National Ride for Pride – only veterans are allowed to drive.
We are encouraging the public to come out, enjoy some great BBQ from DD’s BBQ Company, cold beer, and concessions and to meet the vets and be inspired by their stories.
Contact: Vickie Frank – 920.203.8692 vfrank1968@gmail.com (All Media and Sponsors)
Date: August 10, 2019
Location: Skipper Buds Marina – 1351 Egg Harbor Lane Oshkosh WI
Times: 11 am – 4pm Raffle drawing at 3:30pm
No admission – free parking – Bring your family and friends and enjoy the day! Lots of great items for all! WWU of WI is a non-profit 100% volunteer organization that serves veterans of Wisconsin. Our chapter is based in Appleton WI.
www.wwuofwi.org or find us on Facebook!
Our sponsors include: Skipper Buds, Mercury Marine, Lamar, Duke FM Jack FM Green Bay Expo Services, Fox 11, Nash FM, Safari Club International, Whitetails Unlimited and many more.
Veterans from all over Wisconsin to gather at Skipper Buds Marina in Oshkosh on August 10th!
Public Invited to join in and thank a vet, eat some great BBQ, enjoy big and impressive raffles and silent auction all for a great LOCAL cause.
Warriors on the Water! This 2nd annual event to benefit Wounded Warriors United of Wisconsin will be taking over 65 veterans coming from all over Wisconsin to be hosted for a day of fishing and recognition by volunteer fishermen coming from as far as Minnesota!
An impressive on site Silent Auction and Raffle including a new boat, hunting blinds, fish finders, art work and so much more will be up for the bidding for lucky winners.
Attendees are encouraged to come out from 11am – 4pm to help support and recognize the veterans as they come up on stage to talk about their experience. It will be a fun afternoon for all. Come out and see the Schneider National truck – only veterans are allowed to drive.
We are encouraging the public to come out, enjoy some great BBQ from DD’s BBQ Company, cold beer and concessions and to meet the vets and be inspired by their stories.
No admission – free parking – come on out and enjoy the day ! Lots of great items for all! WWU of WI is a non profit 100% volunteer organization that serves veterans of Wisconsin. Our chapter is based in Appleton WI.
www.wwuofwi.org or find us on Facebook!
Our sponsors include: Skipper Buds, Mercury Marine, Lamar, Duke FM Jack FM Green Bay Expo Services, Fox 11, Nash FM, Safari Club International, Whitetails Unlimited and many more.
Contact: Vickie Frank – 920.203.8692 vfrank1968@gmail.com (All Media and Sponsors)
Location: Skipper Buds Marina – 1351 Egg Harbor Lane, Oshkosh, WI
2nd Annual Warriors on the Water – Aug. 10th @ Skipper Bud’s Marina – Oshkosh, WI
WWU is excited to again be hosting over 50 of our military veterans for a morning of fishing on the Lake Winnebago system! Volunteer fishermen from all over Wisconsin will take out a veteran for a fun day of fishing followed by lunch!
WE WANT THE PUBLIC TO ATTEND AND RECOGNIZE OUR VETERANS AND VOLUNTEERS! PLEASE HELP US BRING THE COMMUNITY TOGETHER TO RECOGNIZE OUR VETS IN A POSITIVE WAY! FROM NOON – 3:30 PM THE PUBLIC CAN MEET THE VETS, ENJOY COLD BEER AND REFRESHMENTS, FOOD FROM DD’S BBQ COMPANY IN OSHKOSH AND HELP SUPPORT WOUNDED WARRIORS UNITED OF WISCONSIN
A GIGANTIC SILENT AUCTION – RAFFLE TO WIN GREAT PRIZES FEATURING A SMOKERCRAFT BOAT AN MERC MOTOR DONATED BY SKIPPER BUDS MARINA AND MERCURY MARINE! A GREAT WAY TO HAVE FUN, ENJOY THE WATER, HAVE SOME GREAT FOOD AND MEET SOME DESERVING VETERANS! NO FEE TO COME IN …. PARKING IS FREE. 1351 EGG HARBOR LANE IS THE LOCATION ADDRESS.
**** WE ARE IN IMMEDIATE NEED OF 25 VOLUNTEER BOAT “CAPTAINS” FOR OUR HUGE RESPONSE BY NEEDING VETERANS.
IF YOU HAVE A BOAT AT LEAST 16’ IN LENGTH AND WOULD LIKE TO TAKE A VET FISHING (BAIT IS PROVIDED) JUST SIGN UP ONLINE TODAY! CLICK ON EVENTS AND THE LINK IS THERE. YOU CAN ALSO CALL US TO SIGN UP OVER THE PHONE. PLEASE HELP US SPREAD THE WORD!!
CONTACT: VICKIE FRANK – 920.203.8692 OTTO REETZ (FOR VETERAN OR BOAT CAPTAIN VOLUNTEER 920.470.1845
EMAIL: VFRANK1968@GMAIL.COM OTTOREETZ@SBCGLOBAL.NET
WEBSITE: WWW.WOUNDEDWARRIORSUNITEDWI.ORG
Warriors on the Water Aug. 10th 2019
Skipper Bud’s Marina – Oshkosh, WI
We are taking reservations for Veterans and Volunteer Boat Captains to take up to 50 deserving veterans out for a day of fishing at Skippers Bud’s Marina! It’s going to be a great day including lots of fishing activities, raffles, Concessions, silent auctions and more! if you know of a vet that would like to sign up – Please share! If you have a boat and want to volunteer to spend a day fishing with a hero.
Contact Otto Reetz at 920.470.1845 or ottoreetz@sbcglobal.net
Additional details on our Facebook or the Warriors on the Water page.
Want to sponsor?
Call Vickie at 920.203.8692