Hero Haven SD

There is a first time for everything, and in this job I get to experience a multitude of interesting firsts. This time, I had the honor to photograph men who have served our country in various ways; both as policemen and army veterans who have been deployed to Iraq. Since my own husband is retired from the Army National Guard and is also a hunter, I felt very comfortable walking in the fields with these men and “shooting” their day. When they armed themselves with shotguns, I armed myself with my camera! (Always from a safe position).

“Hero Haven is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization established by fellow service members as a way to give back to people who serve and protect our country in a real and genuine way. Our gift to those who have served is all things outdoors, filled with adrenaline, topped with adventure and proudly given as a token of appreciation to the men and women who wore a uniform – our front line heroes.” https://www.hero-haven.org/

Volunteer field guide, Sam Daly with BelieVet Canine Service Dogs, made the long trip from Northfield, MN to help out flush and retrieve birds. As Sam deployed twice to Afghanistan to help Marine service dog handlers, he fits right in with the heroes shown in the pictures. He joined the group to support their outing and to raise awareness for his own 501(c)3 that provides certified service dogs to veterans in need.

“BelieVet service dogs provide veterans a new lease on life. They offer a path for veterans to grow and hope for a better future. Changing the world can happen anywhere and anyone can do it. But we can’t change the world alone. It takes friends, family colleagues, the good will of strangers, and helpful guidance. If I have learned anything, it is the power of hope. In serving their country, veterans changed the world for the better. We can honor them by helping to change their world for the better, providing assistance and giving them hope.”