The Jackson County Hunting Heroes started in 2013 with a simple idea: to create a local wounded warrior activity that would bring veterans together through the tradition of hunting. We decided to organize a muzzle loading deer hunt during West Virginia's muzzle loading season.

We started with no money and only an idea. Through volunteer efforts, raffle tickets, hat and t-shirt sales, and generous donations from our community, we conducted our first hunt in December 2013. From the very start, it was a success and a blessing to both hunters and volunteers.

Since that first hunt, we have successfully conducted multiple events with over 100 veterans participating. We have witnessed remarkable outcomes: suicides prevented, hunters regaining memory, veterans finding peace with their combat experiences, and individuals relocating from across the country to be closer to our community.

Our programs include our annual hunt for veterans, monthly meetings open to veterans and family members, and several community and veteran focused events throughout the year. For our hunts, we provide everything: hunting licenses, lodging, meals, guides, meat cutting services, and weapons.

The people in and around Jackson County have donated in excess of 8,000 acres for veteran hunts. All volunteers—guides, meat cutters, cooks, and organizers—donate their time. Every dollar raised supports the veterans directly; no salaries are paid.

This is a community-supported event with volunteers from local businesses, Future Farmers of America, the Vo-Tech culinary school, and citizens coming together to honor our veterans and thank them for their sacrifices.