Veterans Hunt returns for 17th year

Hunters from across the United States gathered in Wisconsin’s Horicon Marsh this past weekend for the 17th annual Horicon Marsh Veterans Hunt, an event aimed at providing healing, camaraderie, and reflection for military veterans.
The three-day event, held Oct. 24-26, drew about 80 veteran participants, with attendees traveling from as far away as Texas, Florida, and Alaska. The event’s online registration filled up in just six minutes after opening in March, organizers said.
On Oct. 25 at noon, guests gathered for a special ceremony that included speeches, a $1,500 check presentation, and the giveaway of an off-road wheelchair to a veteran, both donated by the Combat Veterans Association. The event also featured a group recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance, underscoring the sense of unity and gratitude among attendees.
Founded by Johnson, Chuck Dodge, and the late Ryan Voy, the grassroots effort has grown into an official nonprofit, shying away from major sponsors to focus on its mission: supporting veterans. “We have no major sponsors or advertisements; it makes people feel like it is truly for them,” Johnson said.
The hunt pairs veterans with volunteers to patrol the marsh, sharing stories and building bonds. For some, it’s a chance to enjoy the outdoors with fellow veterans. For others, it’s an opportunity for healing. Johnson recalled one participant telling him, “Veterans can heal themselves if they are given the opportunity to be with other veterans in the right setting, and that’s what you are providing us.” That conversation helped shape the event’s motto: “It’s all about the vets.”
About 70% of this year’s participants were returning veterans, who often mentor first-time attendees before making room for new faces in subsequent years. The event is sustained by private donations and volunteer support.
For more information or to sign up a veteran for next year’s event, visit horiconmarshveterans.com.