Nearly 60 service members and veterans were selected to participate in the inaugural Weekend with Warriors Pheasant Hunt in Rolla. From currently serving drill sergeants to a nearly 40-year retired Lieutenant Colonel, all who attended had more in common than one would think. Different generations of those who served our country, the weekend was as much about camaraderie and brotherhood as it was about hunting. “You’re connecting with like-minded people,” Eric Hawes said. “It’s not just a military connection but love for the outdoors.” Hawes, an active duty service member, was among the 60 veterans from the Fort Leonard Wood region selected to participate in the free pheasant hunt sponsored by the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) Fort Leonard Wood Mid-Missouri Chapter and made possible thanks to Cliff and Sandy Fleming with Fleming Farm and Kennels and the planning of Pitts Lesesne. Fleming and Lesesne worked to organize this hunting opportunity for those who have served to provide a local, outdoor experience and an intentional connection for veterans with other veterans. Miguel Barahona participated in the second day of the event. “It was honestly one of the most memorable moments of my life,” Barahona described. “This reminded me how important it is to care for one another.” AUSA Fort Leonard Wood Mid-Missouri and Fleming Farm and Kennels were not the only organizations involved in making last weekend’s event happen. Iron Hills Armory in St. James provided ammunition for all participants, Gahr Trucking and Yoakum Trucking ensured the roads and property were ready for the event, lunch each day was provided by United Country Results Realty and Auction and Diversified Finish Solutions, and refreshments were sponsored by Grellner Sales and Service and Appliance RX, both in Rolla. Following a welcome and safety meeting, veterans spent the morning in the field before returning for lunch and then finishing up their hunt. Lesesne said they intended for the event to grow and to invite different veteran hunters each year. Many of the participants, who were all able to bag roosters during their hunt, said they are willing to assist as volunteers with the next event. “I thoroughly enjoyed the day,” participant Stephen Clymer said. “I am willing to volunteer for these events.” “I had a great time and enjoyed the opportunity,” LTC(R) Al Parsons stated. “It was a great hunt.”
