Veterans looking forward to shooting experience at WISR By Michelle Libby

In a joint venture between Windham American Legion Post 148 and Windham Indoor Shooting Range, veterans from the Windham and Raymond areas can spend time socializing and shooting during a special veterans’ event on Sunday, February 12, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

“Windham Weaponry and Windham Indoor Shooting Range (WISR) & Retail Store have a strong commitment to benefit our veterans,” said WISR general manager Peter Joyce. “This is hands down definitely a worthy cause.” 

Veterans have the opportunity to talk to veteran support organizations, socialize with one another and shoot state of the art weapons, courtesy of Windham Weaponry. Some of the support groups that will be in attendance are: A veterans K-9 program, wounded veterans, Purple Heart Association, Howe & Howe and a booth about homeless veterans. 

Veterans who show proof of service will be able to use the demo rifles and receive the first round of ammunition for free and will have the opportunity to try out the new AR15 rifle. 

There will be a fun competition to see who has the three best shots and tours of the Windham Weaponry production floor will be given. 

“Anyway we can show our support to our veterans it’s a worthy cause,” said Joyce.

The event was a year in the making at the post level. Commander Mel Greenier and a team of three others, Rod Vosine, Dana Reed and Keri Karsten, were tasked with finding events that younger veterans would be interested in to increase membership. They were excited to partner with WISR for a good deal on using the range. The American Legion Post will pick up the tab for the veterans who attend. They are hoping to have between 50 and 75 veterans in attendance. 

“Not every veteran will be interested, but those who’ve had boots on the ground will be,” said Greenier, who hasn’t “pulled a trigger since 1966”, but is considering shooting on Sunday.

Veterans can bring their own weapons and ammo to shoot or they can try the newest technology available.  

WISR will also highlight its Centurion Package for veterans, fire fighters, dispatchers and police officers. Retired or currently serving with one tour of duty in any of the branches makes someone qualified for this package; which provides unlimited range use, 10 percent discount on ammunition, trainings and rentals for the discounted rate of $275 for the year. 

The American Legion Post 148 received a Post Excellence Award for the last three years for their activities and membership. They have grown in size for the last eight years, according to Greenier.

“I’m very happy with the post and I’m so glad I belong,” he added. 

For more information on the post, visit: www.americanlegionwindhammaine.com or Email: MGreenier@fairpont.net.