12/23/2025
When we think of the 2025 Host a Hero Veteran duck hunt the phrase overcoming adversity came to mind. A quick Google search revealed the following:
To overcome adversity means to successfully navigate and adapt to difficult challenges, turning hardships into opportunities for growth, resilience, and deeper strength, rather than letting setbacks derail you.
The volunteers and blind hosts did all that and more this past weekend to provide an experience for the 20 Heroes that were selected for the hunt, that would leave a lasting impression despite mother nature, the frigid temps, and the ice on Presque Isle.
We want to also thank our sponsors who helped to make this event possible, Scott Enterprises, Sportsman’s Warehouse, Starbucks, Maple Donuts, Perennial Green Lawn Care, Garage Beer Wood Works, Big Al’s Decoys, J Abbey Photography, Delta Waterfowl-Pymatuning Chapter, Albaugh Family, American Legion 742, VFW 740, Fairview SAL Squadron 742, Mr. Henry, and Marty Mokwa.
Heroes and hosts hit the blinds and water both Friday and Saturday with ducks dropping, stories being shared, laughter had and let’s not forget about the amazing food prepared for us both days. John Bamberger (Friday) and Jayne May (Saturday) are lethal in the kitchen and know how to keep everyone involved with this event full and warm with their home cooked meals. Also, a shout out to Don Meehl for making some killer pulled pork which is a staple at this event with is onions and homemade sauces.
A special thank you to all our volunteers who came out and helped make our Heroes weekend one to remember. Matt Killian, Mike Cook, Ryan Chaddish, Shawn Feiock, Erick and Konner Kraus, Corey Wolbert, Keith Edwards, Kyle Peterson, Dick Graver, John Potts, DJ Snyder, Joel Stone, Don Meehl, Cody Meehl, Jeff Lewis, Anthony and Bill Gray, Eric & TR Baumann, Don Maloney, Drew Snyder, Joe Wernicki, Mike and Shawn Stutts, Anthony Rossi, Rich Courtney, Nick Sebasovich, Beau Sebasovich, and Patrick Watt.
Until next year Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas
