Annual Kicking Bear Veterans Hunt in Kansas
By Tom Lee
The week of May 14th to the 19th was an active one in Medicine Lodge, Kansas. Kicking Bear Ministries of Kansas hosted our 7th annual Veterans Hunt at the Gyp Hills Guest Ranch. Scott Anderson with the hunting ministry, Patriots of Praise, was the hunt director and was assisted by Kevin Murphy and Landon Cunningham from Kicking Bear. In addition, many community volunteers provided meals and snacks for the hunters. Needless to say, the food was delicious and in abundance.
Our veteran hunters and veteran guides had some good success over the 4 days. Even with a lower than average turkey population, all but one hunter was able to fill their tags. This year, we were honored to have our first Gold Star kiddo with us. Connor Kennedy of Panama City, Florida joined us. Connor and his Dad Jeff were with us on our first turkey hunt years ago. After his dad passed this spring we invited young Connor to join us this year. Through a major coordinated effort by Jenna from Veterans Airlift Command and our local Kicking Bear team we were able to get Connor from Florida to Kansas and home again at no expense to his family. Very thankful for that. He had a successful hunt in the field and also it was great for him to spend time with his Dad’s veteran buddies who made the trip too. God really used the time together for healing and a reminder that we are never alone.
We are so very thankful for all the people who step up to provide time, energy and resources to make this hunt happen every year. There is no expense to the hunters and that is because of our successful Wildgame Fundraiser held annually in February at the Gyp Hills Ranch Event Center. Our communities commitment and love to this hunt every year really is life changing, thank you.
