In December of 2022, after twenty-five plus years of applying for a prized rifle Bull Elk tag, I was excited to learn I was finally drawn for an elk hunt in the Coconino National Forest area of Northern Arizona. Unfortunately, my excitement was quickly saddled when I became afflicted with a life altering illness that immediately started to affect my eyesight. In March of the following year, I was officially diagnosed with an incurable medical condition that affects the communication between my nerve endings and muscles, limiting both my mobility and vision. This is when Chris, a good friend and hunting partner, suggested, as a disabled veteran, I reach out and apply for assistance from the Heroes Healing Heroes Outdoors (H3O) non-profit organization, in order to make my once in a lifetime elk hunt a reality. After my application was accepted and a few very helpful planning sessions, prior to my hunt with members of the H3O organization, we arrived at camp and were ready for an adventure. I was joined by my son from Oregon and several volunteers from the H3O community of hunters. Having them in camp and in my corner to help in all aspects of the hunt was both beneficial and encouraging. Not only were they more than willing to share their experience and expertise, but they were prepared to assist in scouting, calling and do the heavy lifting that we all hoped would eventually come. It’s important to note that with all the assistance, everyone remained focused on the fact that it was my hunt and made sure that I had the final say in every decision of the hunt. It was our eighth day in camp and fourth day of hunting when I had the unique experience of sitting at a watering hole with Randy, one of the H3O volunteers, while he tried to call in a Bull for me. We had several bulls respond with bugles, but unfortunately, they quit responding after a while and we never saw them. This was the first morning since the hunt started that we had not seen at least a cow elk, but everyone remained upbeat and kept me positive. That same evening, after returning to an area where we had found a few fresh rubs, I was fortunate enough to put eyes on and make a good shot on a nice Bull Elk. It’s hard to explain the excitement and fear that overcame me at the same time. I got him…, taking a few steps and seeing elk head up a ravine, did I get him…, so much to process in a few seconds. Within minutes, my support system was by my side, including two other hunters (Tom and Keith) that became aware of the H3O mission and my hunt. They had previously seen the H3O banners in camp, and joined the group to help settle my nerves as we began to strategize the next steps. After a short track and some glassing, we found a 6x6 Bull Elk on the upper side of the ravine; it was a proud moment for me. That’s about the time when the sheer joy of the adventure, having shot my first elk, and the gracious notion of people helping people overtook me. With everyone’s amazing help, we had the elk skinned, quartered, meat trimmed, packed and transported to camp just after dark. I’d like to extend my appreciation to everyone who helped make this hunt possible and say a special thank you to the H3O organizers and volunteers, especially Gary, Chris, Randy and Ron for all they did to make this a successful hunt for me and the work they continue to do to aid other hunters in my situation. The companionship and camaraderie was great. It was my absolute honor and privilege to be on the receiving end of all their support!