Wounded Warriors from Fort Drum are getting an opportunity to enjoy some time in the great outdoors. Amanda Kelley tells us how 20 local soldiers teamed up with sportsmen in Oswego County for a day of fun.

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ALTMAR, N.Y. -- Wounded Warriors from Fort Drum are seasoned veterans when it comes to deadly weapons.

10th Mountain Division Sergeant First Class Louis Fernandez said, "I've been deployed to Afghanistan four times and Iraq once. I've been blown up by a mortar round. I've been blown up by an IED. And I've been shot."

Still, they embrace the lifestyle and joined local sportsmen in Oswego to learn how to shoot yet another gun.

Wheeling Sportsmen's Coordinator William Wilbur said, "These muzzle loader, it's a whole different ball game. It's not a preloaded Cartridge, so they're loading them. Everything gets loaded through the muzzle."

After watching intently, these men are off for an afternoon of hunting alongside area sportsmen.

Oswego River Chapter NWTF President Bruce Bailey said, "They listen, they really listen to you because it's a new experience for them. It's kind of nice being able to shoot just one shot for them."

The Wheeling Sportsmen's event is more than learning how to shoot a new type of weapon. It's sharing stories, and giving back to those who serve our country.

Wilbur said, "I like to honor them for their service to this county, so anything I can do to help them up there, I'm all for it."

Bailey said, "If it wasn't for them, we wouldn't be here. We wouldn't have the freedoms that we have."

The soldiers appreciate the thanks, and also use the time to learn from each other's troubles.

10th Mountain Division Specialist Michael Benus said, "A lot of us will talk about it, see who's experiences can help us out by having them go through their experiences. How they've coped with their injuries could maybe help another soldier facing the same issue."

Sgt. First Class Fernandez said, "Getting together with everyone in the field like this. It's pretty good."

And even if it's for just a day, they can all enjoy the beautiful North Country outdoors and company of those who share their interests.

Wheeling Sportsmen's Organization has worked with wounded warriors from Fort Drum for the past nine years.