NWTF Wyoming State Chapter hosts annual veterans' spring turkey hunt

During the first weekend of May, the NWTF Wyoming State Chapter held its annual veterans spring turkey hunt in Newcastle.

Since its inception in 2018 with two veteran hunters, the event has grown steadily, and this year it proudly hosted four veterans.

The state chapter diligently raises funds to cover various expenses associated with the hunt, including lodging, meals and licenses for the honored participants.

Prior to the hunt, Joe Sandrini, Wyoming Game and Fish Department biologist, met with local landowners in the area to secure permission for the veterans to hunt on their properties. Additionally, volunteer guides took care of setting up blinds on the properties ahead of the event to help ensure a smooth and successful hunt.

On the Friday preceding the hunt, a special dinner took place at the local VFW, which donated its venue for the event. The gathering provided an opportunity for the hunters to check in and prepare for the upcoming hunt.

Moreover, the dinner served as an opportunity to express gratitude toward the dedicated guides and generous landowners who contributed their efforts, time, resources and support to make the event possible.

The following day, veterans were treated to breakfast burritos to fuel them before the hunt, and they received packed lunches donated by local businesses. The collective efforts and shared commitment to honoring our veterans manifested in a remarkable achievement during this year's hunt - all four participating hunters successfully harvested a wild turkey.

"We couldn't make this event happen without all of the amazing volunteers giving back to those who gave so much," said Joan Eisemann, NWTF Wyoming State Chapter president.

Veterans participating in the hunt were offered a unique opportunity to have their wild turkey fans mounted by area taxidermist and NWTF member Kyndell Flint of Talking Tom Taxidermy, who donated her time and expertise to support the event. In addition to donating taxidermy work, she also assisted in organizing the lunches and dinners for the event.

Following Saturday's hunt, another dinner, open to the public, provided an opportunity for the community to come together and show its support for our veterans.

A significant highlight of the dinner was a silent auction, aiming to raise funds for next year's hunt. Generously donated by businesses and individuals from across the state, auctioned items raised funds to begin laying the groundwork for future hunts, ensuring continued support and opportunities for veterans.