Matt Jones
Author
On December 1st we welcomed five Marines on an elk hunt in northern New Mexico. Among these Marines were three veterans and two active-duty
individuals, all of which were veterans of combat deployments to Iraq or Afghanistan.
individuals, all of which were veterans of combat deployments to Iraq or Afghanistan.The late season migration was only just beginning as we arrived and morning temperatures were in the teens. Our first morning hunt did not produce an elk but the boys displayed fine marksmanship on the first evening with two bulls being taken. The terrain and layout of this hunt is unique in that we can hunt together in small groups. This makes for incredible opportunities for our veterans to be present for the shot and the in the field pictures and processing that follows a successful hunt. Everyone was able to share in the excitement and congratulations each day as each one of our vets found success in the rolling sage covered hill country south of Chama.
A very special moment was shared on the third evening of the hunt when Josh Kerns, our triple amputee, climbed a large hill they dubbed “Mt. Chama” one more time in hopes of filling our last tag. Josh was joined with the rest of our crew on the hill that evening as we set up the optics in search of a bull. It’s hard to describe the quiet excitement that radiated through the group as elk began to appear in the valley and we searched for the right one. True to form, Josh made a perfect shot and the high-fives and congratulatory hugs flowed freely from our vantage point. It was an amazing experience to share on a remote hillside with some deserving folks who have sacrificed so much. Five elk in three days is no easy task, but these Marines were ready for the job.
This trip is one I look forward to each year. The beautiful New Mexico scenery is only matched by the incredible memories we create there.
Testimony from Gunnery Sergeant Jason Irons who harvested his first elk on this trip.
“I cannot express enough how thankful I am for the opportunity GBO afforded me. GBO invited me on the Chama, NM elk hunt which elk was one of my dream hunts. I was paired up with Matt and Kenny who expertly and professionally handled everything for the hunt, including lodging, tags, and teaching and assisting in preparing the meat after harvest. To do this without their help and knowledge alone would be feat in itself. The food and accommodations at camp were phenomenal and the companionship and comradery was top notch. The other Marines and myself had a great time. Any veteran who is offered this opportunity should take it as it will be an experience of a life time! Thank you again!” -Jason IronsWe would like to offer a sincere thank you to Amy and Karl Staggs and the Cornerstone Shops in Chama for the hospitality and generosity they extended to our crew while they were visiting. Amy and Karl do so much for their community in the way of youth and veteran outreach. We couldn’t be more proud to partner with such great people dedicated to helping others and look forward to future opportunities together.