Testimonials
Kyle Howell | U.S. Marine Corps Veteran
Before finding RWF, I was fresh out of county jail and beginning Veterans Treatment Court. I was sober and involved in my VA recovery program, but I didn’t have many healthy outlets beyond that. I spent a lot of time isolated, carrying regrets and wondering what came next.
I met Zack through Valor House, where he invited us to a church event and later to play disc golf. I’d never played before, but I knew recovery wasn’t just about quitting old habits. It was about replacing them with healthier ones. That made it easy to show up.
Since becoming involved with RWF and getting to know the Feeney family, I’ve played disc golf, gone climbing, experienced whitewater rafting, gone hiking, and connected with veteran organizations across Oklahoma. More importantly, I found a community.
They welcomed me like family and showed me that recovery doesn’t have to be boring or lonely. It can be full of adventure, purpose, laughter, and genuine friendships. That perspective has changed my life.
To another veteran thinking about coming, I’d say: come. RWF gives us healthy ways to stay active, build friendships, and remember we don’t have to recover alone.
Sometimes all it takes is showing up once.
Shawn Cook | U.S. Marine Corps Veteran
I’m a U.S. Marine Corps veteran whose military career was cut short by an injury overseas. Becoming a father gave me the push to get sober and be present for my family. What came next was learning how to build a healthier life and stay consistent.
I met Zack at a hot Pilates class. We discovered we had a lot in common, and he invited me to events through the Remington Willow Foundation. I was hesitant about stepping into a new environment, but I’m glad I gave it a chance. Now, I make it a priority to participate whenever I can.
Through rock climbing, pickleball, and other activities, RWF has challenged me to step outside my comfort zone, learn new skills, and keep going when something doesn’t come easily. More importantly, it’s shown me that consistency doesn’t have to happen in isolation. Being around other veterans working on themselves encourages me to keep showing up, too.
When my military career ended, I lost a routine, a purpose, and a sense of belonging. Through RWF, I’m finding that brotherhood again. These friendships are built around shared experiences, mutual respect, and accountability.
I’m grateful to Zack for continuing to invite me and for creating a community that helps me build confidence and recognize what I’m capable of. I’m proud of the father, partner, and man I’m becoming, and I’m not finished growing.
Semper Fi.
Daniel Royster | U.S. Army Veteran
I’m a medically disabled Army veteran living with PTSD. After my divorce, with all four of my children grown and living out of state, being alone without friends or family nearby made things much harder.
Living with my disabilities was already a struggle, and the isolation added to it. I didn’t have much of a support system close by, and spending so much time alone made everything feel worse.
My brother Zack introduced me to several groups and activities through RWF, and that connection has helped me tremendously. Having people to spend time with and opportunities to get involved has made a real difference in my life.
I’m grateful to Zack for reaching out and helping me become part of these groups. When you’re struggling and feeling alone, having someone help you find connection can mean more than they realize.