EDGEFIELD, S.C. — On May 1, the town of Newcastle, Wyoming, welcomed four U.S. military veterans for a mentored hunt event that blended the spirit of the outdoors with a deep appreciation for service. Hosted annually since 2018, the Wyoming NWTF State Chapter Veterans Hunt has grown from a humble beginning with just two hunters to a full-fledged community-driven initiative — offering veterans a unique turkey hunting experience while honoring their dedication and sacrifice.
This year, veterans arrived in Newcastle to meet their volunteer guides, check into accommodations and receive their hunting licenses. The hunt was prefaced by a special dinner at the local Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) post, which graciously donated its space for the gathering. The evening served not only to prepare participants for the hunt, but also to foster connection and community. Attendees enjoyed a warm meal and an awards presentation, where all four veterans were recognized with a commemorative plaque, and two received Quilts of Valor.
The dinner also provided an opportunity to thank the local landowners, guides and supporters who made the event possible. Wyoming Game and Fish Department biologist Joe Sandrini played a key role in coordinating with landowners to secure access to prime hunting grounds. Longtime supporters and volunteers worked in advance to set up blinds on the properties, ensuring the veterans had every chance at a successful hunt.
This year held extra significance as it marked Sandrini’s first event since retiring from the Wyoming Game and Fish Department. In appreciation for his unwavering support of the Veterans Hunt, the NWTF Cabin Fever Chapter from Dubois presented him with a plaque of appreciation. He was also formally presented with his NWTF Mentor of the Year Award, originally picked up on his behalf by Wyoming State Chapter president Joan Eismann at the national convention in Nashville.
The hunt proved successful for most, with three out of the four veterans filling their tags. But the true victory was in the camaraderie, laughter and stories shared in blinds and at dinner tables.
“The hunt was absolutely phenomenal,” Eismann said. “It takes an army to organize this event, but each year it’s a success thanks to all the volunteers and donors. We have contributors from across the state, making it a true statewide effort.”
Following the hunts, participants gathered again Friday night for a celebratory dinner. Among the evening’s highlights was the awarding of a custom knife — donated by the NWTF Cabin Fever Chapter — for the longest beard harvested, which went to veteran Tammy Maas. A silent auction also featured items generously donated by individuals and businesses statewide, raising critical funds to support next year’s event.
Veterans were also gifted with swag bags filled with items donated from around Wyoming, as well as from vendors at the 2025 NWTF Convention and Sport Show in Nashville. In addition, local taxidermist and NWTF member Kyndell Flint of Talking Tom Taxidermy donated her time and expertise to mount turkey fans for the veterans, providing them with lasting mementos of their hunt.
From refreshments donated by Pepsi and Frito Lay to the tireless work of volunteers, the Wyoming Veterans Hunt exemplifies what’s possible when conservation and community come together in service of a greater purpose. The hunt continues to grow in impact each year, reaffirming the life-changing power of the outdoors and the enduring gratitude owed to those who’ve served.
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