Veteran-owned businesses in Alaska we love to support
As a Veteran Spouse, Veterans hold a special place in my heart here at WILCO SUPPLY. This year, we're honoring Veterans Day by shining a well-deserving light on a few veteran-owned businesses that we featured on our blog a couple of years ago. Here's a recap honoring some of our veteran-owned businesses right here in Alaska, home to WILCO SUPPLY!
Owned by Army Veteran, Derrick Green, Waffles and Whatnot has been voted "Best Food Truck in Alaska," twice and has even been featured on the Food Network and Entrepreneur magazine. Currently located at 500 Muldoon Road, Waffles and Whatnot is conveniently close to Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson. The signature chicken and waffle combo, the "Badass Yard Bird," or BAYB, for short, is delicious. And for those of you outside of Alaska, you can order hand-packaged, pre-made waffle mixes online! Check out the savory mixes as well!
Timber & Tundra Leather Co. and Upstream Counseling
Army veteran Maria Ballard hand crafts rustic and minimalist bags, jewelry, key chains and more. Check out her Etsy shop for unique specialty items.
In addition to being a talented artisan, Maria is committed to helping others heal from trauma as a Therapist specializing in EDMR therapy. She says her experience as a former Rocket Launcher Mechanic in the Army contributes to her success as a Therapist. Maria's practice, Upstream Counseling is located in midtown Anchorage.
The best part about being a member of the military and veteran community is the camaraderie. That's why we didn't hesitate to introduce ourselves to Air Force veteran Matt Worden, owner and guide of Go Hike Alaska - and fellow Visit Anchorage member!
Alaska is famous for its breathtaking views and incredible wildlife. (Think glaciers and mountains serving as a home to moose, bears, bison, whales, bald eagles, puffins, and more!) Our state is effortlessly breathtaking. When highlighting local veteran-owned businesses, we couldn't miss the chance to spotlight Matt and Go Hike Alaska.
Of course, our list wouldn't be complete without my husband, Dustin Slinker, founder of The Bait Shack!
Dustin is an Army veteran, Bronze Star awardee and Purple Heart recipient. He served in the 1st Cavalry Division at Fort Hood, Texas and 25th Infantry Division here at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska. An avid fisherman since age 4, Dustin's dream was to someday own a bait shop. In 2011, he transitioned to civilian life and founded The Bait Shack at Ship Creek in downtown Anchorage. His one-stop-shop offers fishing rentals, guide services, bait (ask for the famous "Creek Candy") and tackle. Beyond Ship Creek, Dustin offers extended rentals to fish other parts of Alaska. When winter approaches, Dustin and his team offer ice fishing adventures in the Anchorage and Matanuska-Susitna areas.
Join us in making sure our Veterans feel supported, encouraged, and honored this Veterans Day. And as always, for those who have Served or continue to Serve thank you so much for your Service and Sacrifice for our Great Nation!
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