Woodford Warriors is an all-volunteer 501(c)3 non-proft with a mission to help wounded warriors heal. Our wounded warrior hunts and outdoor programs create memories and friendships that last a lifetime. We help our Veterans come to the realization that, despite traumatic injury, one can achieve virtually any goal through dedication and determination.

One of the hunts Woodford Warriors helped facilitate for veterans was their annual Woodford Warriors Deer Hunt, which was held on Nov 16-17, 2021. They along with other area partners, including the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources.

One of the many veterans Woodford Warriors has helped is Keith Estep, who retired from the U.S. Army in 2012. “Through this hunting experience with Woodford Warriors, and the friends I've made, I no longer have the desire to pull the trigger on myself,” said Estep. “They keep me focused, and sometimes busy. I do other volunteer work with Byron (Marlowe) as well, but away from Woodford Warriors.”

One of the volunteers for the hunt was Joe Lacefield, a Regional Wildlife Biologist with the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources.

“In 2011 I was asked to help with a Wounded Warrior elk hunt in eastern Kentucky,” said Lacefield. “The Appalachian Wildlife Foundation had been awarded a Commissioner’s Conservation tag and gave it to a double amputee veteran. I was asked to photograph the hunt and event. After participating in that event, I thought it would be a great thing to pitch a similar hunt for deer to Kentucky Utilities. They had not allowed hunting for more than 25 years and were overpopulated. I did so, and at the same time Byron Marlowe mentioned he was planning to initiate one at Life Adventure Center where he was working as a program director at that time. We all three came together to form this group and had the first hunt in November of 2012.”