Cambridge Rotarians tour Patriot Point

Hugh Middleton, Patriot Point vice president of operations and development, and his wife, Joy, hosted a tour of Patriot Point for the Rotary Club of Cambridge. Hugh spoke about the history of the retreat and its mission.

“Patriot Point is the Military Bowl Foundation’s 294-acre retreat that provides safe, secure and tranquil outdoor recreational retreat facility for wounded, ill and injured active duty service members, veterans and their families and caregivers who face daily struggles related to their time spent defending our great nation,” he said.

Hugh said some come to hunt or fish while others come just to enjoy time away. Each group coming determines what they are looking for, and Hugh and Joy provide what is needed. Located between Madison and Taylor Island in Dorchester County, Patriot Point was formed in 2016 purchasing the property and formalized the concept of the previous owner, Jim Buggs. Buggs, a sportsman, businessman and conservationist, informally hosted recovering service members.

Since purchasing the property, significant improvements have been made to provide upgrades without losing the original rustic appearance. Most groups coming range in size with the average being about 10.

Hugh graduated from The Citadel with a degree in business administration followed by several years of experience in Naval Special Operations and multiple civilian senior management positions.

A former Navy SEAL, he had various overseas assignments. His work experience was varied after leaving the military. His first visit to Patriot Point was as a guest for a duck hunt sponsored by the Grand National Waterfowl Association. Initially as a volunteer, his passion to help wounded veterans led to his current position.

Bringing his wife on board, Joy’s passion for the veteran and first responder communities made her a perfect fit for the retreat. Along with her husband, Joy’s task is to provide the guests whatever is needed to make their experience positive.

Owned and operated by Patriot Point LLC, their sole member is the Military Bowl Foundation Inc., a nonprofit organization.