VETPAW is an organization that employs post-9/11 US veterans to train and support Africa’s rangers in the fight against illegal poaching.
In short, they are an extremely badass bunch.
And the poster child for all their badassery has got to be retired Afghanistan veteran, Kinessa Johnson.
Before joining VETPAW, Kinessa was a weapons instructor and diesel mechanic in the US Army for 4 years.
She also served a tour of duty in Afghanistan.
Like we said, BADASS.
A native of Washington, she has since moved to Tanzania to serve another tour — to protect those who can’t protect themselves.
With the illegal ivory trade thriving, poaching is still very much a problem in many of Africa’s reserves. And elephants aren’t the only ones under threat, either. Rhinos, lions, and many other big game are in just as much danger, too.
However, Kinessa quickly points out that she’s not a “poacher hunter.”
“I’m a technical adviser to anti-poaching rangers so I patrol routinely with them and also assist in intelligence operations.”
“Most of the time anyone that is in a reserve with a weapon is considered a threat and can be shot if rangers feel threatened. Our goal is to prevent trigger pulling through strategic movements and methods of prevention.”
“Our intention is not to harm anyone; we’re here to train park rangers so they can track and detain poachers and ultimately prevent poaching.”
According to our heroine, there’s been a downturn in poaching whenever the presence of VETPAW in a certain area is known.
“That’s why we have to be strategic. Intel plays a huge role in what we do.”
So what advice can she give those who want to do their part in protecting wildlife?
“Find something you’re good at and think of a way you can benefit an organization assisting to protect and conserve wildlife.”
“Imagine one of your community’s most cherished assets disappearing forever. It impacts everything.”
You can learn more about VETPAW and support them here.