Listening to the national news, let alone the state news, has lately been depressing.  But on a local level, there’s plenty to feel good about.  People in Barton County have heart, and last weekend a select few had a chance to show it in a big way.  While many donned their best formal attire to attend the annual Chamber of Commerce banquet, these men donned field gear and welcomed some honest-to-goodness heros to our home.
For at least three years now, Pheasants Forever Chapter No. 504, Crosby’s Wildgame Adventures,  and some dedicated volunteers have provided a unique experience to Wounded Warriors, the national organization that seeks to help returning soldiers re acclimate to civilian life.  That  task is often complicated with both physical and emotional injuries that take time to heal.
Civilians are well meaning, but many of us can’t possibly understand all they’ve been through while serving our nation.  This weekend’s Wounded Warrior pheasant hunt allowed these heroes a chance to connect with one another, and to enjoy a slower pace in a beautiful setting, with no worries because it was their turn to be served.  
The men that visited our area Friday through Sunday hopefully return to their everyday lives refreshed, unburdened, and with new experiences and contacts that can spark a smile now and then and give them hope that life is a wonderful thing, worth the sacrifice they made protecting it, and worth participating in themselves.
Kudos to Lance Crosby, Scot Moeder, Lynn Petersen, Charlie Swank, and all the other volunteers and sponsors that made this year’s hunt successful, and we hope you keep up the good work.