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Special hunt

Published 1/27/2010 in Commentary : Editorial

For many war veterans, the toughest part of their lives begins when they return home.

And it can be just as difficult for their families.

That fact wasn't lost on a recent Garden City High School graduate who organized a successful family outing for combat-wounded soldiers.

The inaugural Heartland Heroes Hunt in December 2008 came about as Mackenzie Nix's Buff Project, a requirement for graduation from GCHS.

Through a weekend pheasant hunt and other activities, 22 soldiers and their families from Fort Riley were treated to a special gathering that helped each one relax and move forward in their own individual healing process.

The event was such a positive experience that organizers were eager to do it again. Starting Thursday, 10 soldiers and their families from Fort Carson, Colo., who were selected to participate in this year's Heartland Heroes Hunt, will begin arriving in town.

Along with the weekend pheasant hunt, they'll attend a benefit dinner on Friday that is intended to show support for all veterans, soldiers killed in action and active duty military personnel. Ongoing fundraising efforts also benefit a scholarship fund for the children of combat-wounded soldiers.

Those who participated in the inaugural Heartland Heroes Hunt saw firsthand the outpouring of support from a community that was quick to donate motel rooms, meals, gift cards and even shotguns for the hunters. The effort has struck such a chord that Garden City Mayor Nancy Harness proclaimed Jan. 28 through 31 as Heartland Heroes Days in Garden City.

Communities have a responsibility to salute veterans and recognize the sacrifices they have made and the challenges that they face on a daily basis. When many of the nation's newest veterans return home, they must deal with physical disabilities, mental illnesses and financial woes for years -- sobering proof of the need to not only devote more resources to support military families, but also pursue new ways to help them adjust to life after war.

When war ends, the pain and suffering for many veterans and their families only is beginning. Credit the Heartland Heroes Hunt for providing an enjoyable respite, while also giving the community an opportunity to offer veterans and their families the praise and support they deserve.

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Found 1 comment(s)!

Great Job

I would like to congratulate Mackinzie and everyone who pitched in to make the 2010 Heartland Heroes Hunt a successful one. It was an honor to be able to spend time with these men and women who have stepped up to serve our country.

Posted by: Mike Christensen on 2/1/2010