On November 11th, 2024, I had the privilege of participating in the Giving Back Outdoors Veterans Day pheasant hunt, an event that truly honored service
members like myself. It was on this hunt that I harvested my first pheasant, not only with Jeremy, but also with my Granddad and Father, who drove up from Mississippi to participate in this unforgettable experience. Three generations on a field hunting together was something my family and I will cherish forever.
It was during this hunt that Jeremy and I bonded…As my dad and I were walking the field together, our dog pointed a rooster. Before I knew it, my dad and I were both after the same rooster. After the rooster fell, I might have let a few choice of words slip, which definitely gave Jeremy something to chuckle about.
After our hunt was completed, Jeremy graciously offered to take me out on a whitetail hunt, a gesture that would lead to one of the most unforgettable experiences of my life.
As an active duty logistics officer and the Des Moines Recruiting Commander in Johnston, Iowa, I’ve had my fair share of challenges and rewards, but this experience was something entirely different. Jeremy’s dedication to giving back to veterans is truly remarkable, and his passion for hunting and the outdoors is contagious.
Jeremy took me out and hunted alongside me. His patience and skills were evident as he guided a beautiful whitetail buck within 30 yards. I remember when I spotted the buck Jeremy kept telling me to stand up, stand up and I had to remind him I am only 5’0 and I was standing…
With his guidance, I was fortunate enough to take the shot. Even now, I can’t find the words to fully express how I felt—the exhilaration, the gratitude, and the overwhelming sense of appreciation. My shaking legs after the shot said it all.
Hunting has taught me so much about myself over the last five months; it’s truly the most humbling hobby I’ve ever had. Since meeting Jeremy in November, I’ve gained an amazing friend and mentor. He has introduced me to so many incredible people, each of whom has taught me valuable lessons that I’ve added to my toolkit. While I’m still searching for the right tool to blow my duck call, I have no doubt that Jeremy will help me master that too.
Thank you, Jeremy, for not only being a great guide but also for being an amazing person who gives so much back to those who have served. Since meeting Jeremy, I have harvested my first of many, my first rooster, Iowa white tail, and Canadian goose. However, it has become evident how many people, sponsors and volunteers it takes to provide this level of support for this organization and give back. I’m beyond blessed to have had this opportunity. So thank you to every single sponsor and volunteer sitting in this room, in fact, please stand, let’s have a round of applause for all that you do to even make this possible.
Thank you, Giving Back Outdoors, for everything you stand for. Your unwavering commitment to supporting veterans and creating a sense of camaraderie through shared experiences is truly inspiring. What you do makes a meaningful difference, and I am honored to be a part of such an incredible mission.