OAK CREEK, Wis. (SPECTRUM NEWS)— Veterans show off their shot in air rifle shooting practice ahead of a big competition.
He's a good shot, and he has a passion for it. Shooting allows Rickey Riley to get out of the house after his health declined about three years ago.
"Overnight I lost all of it... It was fast," Army Veteran, Rickey Riley said.
Rickey is now a paraplegic due to a rare health issue. He says being on the range gives him something to look forward to and it keeps his spirits up.
"This is a little over three years since I have been in the chair and I couldn't do anything, I mean this is all I could do... Was turning my neck," Riley said.
Now, he can do so much more. Seeing Riley in the range is a true sight to see. His level of confidence seeps out of his pours and he is usually on the mark whenever he shoots. He says being out there helps with his motor skills but it also helps with his mental health.
"It helps you up here, definitely it gives you something to look forward to," Riley said.
Riley is an Army Veteran and was also a part of the Army National Guard, so an active lifestyle was all he knew. So for him, getting the chance to hit the range and shoot an air rifle with other veterans and compete brought back out his spunky spirit.
He says the connection with other veterans who are facing similar issues is comforting and helpful at the same time. Riley says he enjoys spending time with others while the practice ahead of their next competition.
"It’s good, it’s relaxing, and it gets my mind off other things in life. It lets us hang out with other vets. That's the best part," Veteran, John Avis said.
There are different types of air rifles for all abilities. The Paralyzed Veterans of America will be hosting an air rifle tournament on March 22nd at MATC in Oak Creek.
