MORGANTOWN -- Gathering of Mountain Eagles, a non-profit organization, is bringing wounded American veterans to the Mountain State for recreation and to say "thank you" for their service.

Seventeen veterans were greeted by more than 30 people has they arrived in Morgantown Saturday.

A large group of Vietnam Veterans from area counties were present to welcome the soldiers.

The group spent 2 days skiing at Canaan Valley Resort.

They ate lunch at Prime Thyme before heading to the WVU versus Providence basketball game where they were honored by a large crowd.

Organizers say they bring the soldiers to West Virginia during this transition in their life because West Virginians do a great job at showing veterans their appreciation.

"I understand how this state feels about veterans... always has and always will," explains Executive Director Forrest "Woody" Aurentz. "And I know if I could bring them to West Virginia they would get a great welcome and they have. This is the 2nd time we've done it."

There are more than 30-thousand wounded veterans in the U.S. and although the organization cannot provide opportunities for all of them, Gathering of Mountain Eagles is planning to organize the trips 4 times a year.