MDC hosts ‘Veterans of Valor’ spring turkey hunt April 24-26

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. -- The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is hosting a Disabled Veterans Spring Turkey Hunt April 24-26 in Bollinger County. The event is open to any disabled veteran with service-related injuries. 

“We want to proudly honor those who have defended our freedoms,” said Conservation Agent Alan Lamb.

The goal of the program is to assist disabled veterans who are not able to go turkey hunting on their own. The event begins April 24 with morning turkey hunts on April 25 and 26. 

MDC Outdoor Skills Specialist DeeDee Dockins said all participants will be given basic instruction on how to pattern their shotgun the evening before the first hunt.

“Then the veterans will hit the field the next morning for some top notch Missouri turkey hunting,” said Dockins.

Each veteran will be guided by conservation agents or MDC employees. Other activities planned include target shooting and fishing. Hunting and camaraderie will continue until the event concludes on the afternoon of April 26.  

“We’re dedicated to providing veterans with positive recreational opportunities,” said Lamb. “It isn’t just a hunt, it is an experience and we get as much out of the program as the veterans do.”

Lodging at an MDC facility and all meals and equipment will be provided throughout the event. The event is free to participants but applicants must apply and purchase the necessary permits. Applications are available at the MDC Southeast Regional Office in Cape County Park North or by emailing Dockins at DeeDee.Dockins@mdc.mo.gov.  The application deadline is March 31.

The Veterans of Valor Turkey Hunt is in cooperation with the Southeast Regional Disabled Veterans Recreational Program which provides outdoor recreational opportunities for disabled veterans. 

For more information, or to apply, call the Southeast Regional Office at (573)290-5730 or email Dockins at deedee.dockins@mdc.mo.gov.