Commissioner of Agriculture Adam H. Putnam has spearheaded efforts to provide wounded veterans with relaxing and rehabilitative outdoor experiences through “Operation Outdoor Freedom,” and today he opened a first-of-its-kind camp for this program. Made possible through a public/private partnership, Camp Prairie, located in Lake Wales, Fla., consists of a fully equipped campground with sleeping facilities, a screened kitchen, pavilion, dining area and restroom facility. Through the program, wounded veterans participate in hunting, fishing and boating events at no cost, and Camp Prairie is the first site completely dedicated to “Operation Outdoor Freedom.”
“Our veterans have risked their own safety for our liberty, and ‘Operation Outdoor Freedom’ is one way we can demonstrate our gratitude to the brave men and women who were injured while serving our country,” stated Commissioner of Agriculture Adam H. Putnam. “I cannot thank the private donors enough who contributed to make the dream of Camp Prairie a reality. Anyone who is interested in participating in this program or contributing to provide our veterans with these unforgettable experiences should visit FreshFromFlorida.com today.”
To date, more than 1,400 wounded veterans have participated in “Operation Outdoor Freedom,” which is administered by the Florida Forest Service. To be eligible, veterans must have a 30-percent or greater, service-connected disability rating or have received a Purple Heart.
Camp Prairie is located at 21279 Kissimmee Shores Road, Lake Wales, Fla., and all events held at the location will be coordinated by the Florida Forest Service. To view upcoming “Operation Outdoor Freedom” events, which are held throughout Florida, visit FreshFromFlorida.com.
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