Potomac Highlands
Wounded Warrior Outreach

About PHWWO

Founded in 2010, the Potomac Highlands Wounded Warrior Outreach (PHWWO) was created by two brothers from Pendleton County, West Virginia — Bill and George Armstrong — both proud veterans of the Vietnam War. After witnessing other organizations direct large portions of donations toward administrative costs and executive salaries, they believed there was a better way to serve veterans. Their vision was simple: create an organization where local people could come together to directly support West Virginia veterans through meaningful outdoor experiences.

With determination and community support, Bill and George borrowed firefighter boots from the Franklin, WV Volunteer Fire Department and stood along the roadside collecting donations for veterans in need. Those early fundraising efforts generated enough support to send several veterans on a fishing trip to Harman’s Cabins, planting the seeds for what PHWWO would become.

Over the years, PHWWO continued to grow through the dedication of volunteers and fellow veterans. Vietnam veteran Larry Flynn joined the organization, and following Bill Armstrong’s passing, Afghanistan War veteran Richard Ogden stepped forward to help continue the mission. In 2022, Richard Ogden became President of PHWWO alongside Vice President Chris Nethken and Secretary Roger Zirkle. Carey Wagner serves as Treasurer, and Lisa Ogden serves as Event Coordinator.

Every member of PHWWO volunteers their time without compensation. Unlike many larger organizations, 100% of every dollar donated goes directly toward providing hunting and fishing experiences for veterans.

Today, PHWWO hosts 4–6 outdoor events each year, including:
- Spring Turkey Hunts
- May and June Fly Fishing Trips
- Deer Hunts
- Black Bear Hunts

Each event serves approximately 6–10 veterans, allowing PHWWO to support 30–40 veterans annually. These experiences are made possible entirely through the generosity of local businesses, sponsors, and individual donors who believe in giving back to those who served our country.

At its core, PHWWO was built upon four guiding principles:

1. Provide once-in-a-lifetime experiences for as many of our nation’s veterans as possible.
2. Showcase the sportsman’s paradise of Pendleton County, West Virginia.
3. Ensure that 100% of donations directly support veterans.
4. Use hunting and fishing experiences as therapeutic opportunities for veterans living with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

PHWWO believes the outdoors can provide healing, fellowship, and purpose. Through every cast, every hunt, and every shared story around camp, the organization remains committed to honoring and supporting the men and women who served our nation.