Project Appleseed

Many thanks to the Bend of the River Conservation Club for hosting Project Appleseed for the April 19, 2014 Patriots Day shoot.  28 proud Americans, including 2 walk-ons, enjoyed gorgeous Southwest Michigan weather with sunny skies and a high in the low 70's (let's here it for the first neck sunburn of the year!!)

We had 2 lines - a more experienced group and a fresh-and-ready-for-knowledge group -- but both worked hard and were full of good humor.  It was amazing to see so many people take their precious rights seriously and come out to learn solid rifle marksmanship skills.  We saw ENORMOUS improvement by many and were thrilled to see Delaney achieve the coveted Rifleman patch with a great score of 221 on our first AQT of Saturday. 

We had great renditions of history with 1st Strike in the morning, 2nd and 3rd Strike at lunch and Hezekiah Wyman, Mary Morgan Hart and "The Wedding Portrait that Never Was" told in the afternoon.  I was especially happy to see 3 proud American's step up and answer the call by volunteering for Appleseed.  Congratulations Fruit Loops and Sparky who stepped up to Applecore and Nehemiah who took and Orange Hat.

I was busy running back and forth between lines and didn't have a chance to snap any pictures.   Sparky sure took a lot...post 'em if you got 'em.

A beautiful day for setup--and tomorrow will be better!

OP Updated...let's see some pics!

It was my first time at Niles and it was definately worth the trip. The weather was outstanding, The shooters were enthusiastic,  and the facilities top notch. The shooters were really great to work with and showed great improvement.
Beth was really upset about missing out,  So we'll have to make another road trip to the west side.
See ya on the trail.

Gotta say, this shoot was well worth the LONG drive to get there. What better way to spend April 19th than with an enthusiastic group of Americans! I had so much fun working with the youngsters and watching their groups shrink as the lessons sunk in. You guys and gals need to keep up the good work and positive attitudes! I am honored to have met you and had the chance to work with you. I smiled all the way on that LONG drive back home!

Thank you,
Miki

I had a great time participating in the shoot.  I wish to thank all the instructors and volunteers who donated themselves for this very worthwhile endeavor.  Thank you.
Looking forward to participating again.
It was a beautiful experience.

What a fantastic weekend.  It felt like a family reunion--with marksmanship and heritage!  Best family reunion ever!    

(Also the first family reunion where I started out the day with long johns and ended up sunburned in a t-shirt.  Michigan weather!)

It's humbling to see the enthusiasm, patience and persistence that everyone brought to the event.  And especially to see the capability and responsibility our youth attendees displayed. 

It is wonderful to hear that even before Saturday was finished folks talking about coming back and seeing us again.  Bring friends!

I did not manage many pictures:


Safety briefing:



The Wedding that Never Was:

Had a great time