#salutethepursuit🇺🇸
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In late August of 2025, a call came through that would set the stage for an unforgettable adventure in the rugged mountains of Wyoming. The Wild Sheep Foundation reached out to me with a unique and heartwarming request: to assist on a Bighorn Sheep hunt for a disabled veteran. As a veteran myself, this cause resonated deeply within me, and I knew we had to seize the opportunity to make this hunt a reality for a fellow veteran.
The stakes were high. A generous donor had gifted a type 1 sheep tag to a deserving disabled veteran, and it was our mission to ensure this veteran's hunting dream came true. We had been meticulously watching a pair of rams for several years, developing a rich history with these mature sheep. Our dedication had paid off; we had invested countless hours into understanding their movements and habits. However, finding them was often like searching for a needle in a haystack, as they skillfully navigated the rocky terrain.
As opening day approached, we finally located the rams. Excitement surged through our group as we formulated a game plan to bring Josh, the veteran, to the field. We were eager to introduce him to the thrill of the chase and the beauty of the hunt. But nature, as it often does, threw us a curveball. When we set out to get eyes on the rams, we discovered they had moved higher up into the rocks, making our task even more challenging.
Undeterred, we put our heads together and decided to put a stock into a promising drainage. After a tense search, we finally spotted one of the rams—a stunning ram that made our hearts race. Josh was ready to close the distance, confidence radiating from him as we prepped for the shot.
But then, fate intervened. Despite his steady aim and calm demeanor, Josh missed the opportunity. It was a bitter disappointment, yet I reminded myself that sometimes things happen for a reason. We pushed forward, determined not to let this setback define our hunt.
Fast forward a few days, and luck was on our side. We located the rams again, and the biggest target ram was in sight. A quick phone call to Josh had him racing back to join us, and we hiked eagerly into the hills, adrenaline pumping through our veins.
However, the rams had moved again, slipping over a ridge while we strategized our next move. As we quietly advanced, the unexpected happened: the sheep doubled back, and we found ourselves just 25 yards away from them! The moment was electric. We quickly laid Josh down, got him set up behind the rifle, and zeroed in on the correct ram.
With a steady breath, Josh took the shot—crack! The sound echoed against the mountains, and we held our breath. The big ram fell, and the excitement was palpable. When Josh approached his ram, it was a moment steeped in emotion. The gratitude was overwhelming—not just for the hunt itself, but for the generosity of Rusty Ulm, who had donated his tag after a 28-year wait. His selfless act allowed a veteran to experience this incredible opportunity.
Words can hardly capture the joy and pride that washed over us as Josh laid hands on his ram for the first time. It was a culmination of hard work, teamwork, and a shared mission. I couldn't have been prouder to be part of this journey alongside Josh, the AT EASE HUNTING team, the Wyoming Wild Sheep Foundation, and Hunting with Heroes of Wyoming.
This hunt was more than just a pursuit of wild sheep; it was a heartfelt reminder of the bonds we share and the lengths we go to support one another. Congratulations to Josh and everyone involved in making this veteran's hunt a beautiful reality! Here’s to many more adventures in the great outdoors!
#salutethepursuit
Patrick Ginder
Owner/Operator, At Ease Hunting
