Celebrating a Decade of Adventure: SOD's 10 Year Anniversary and Gratitude to Our Supporters

As we welcome 2026, we also celebrate a remarkable milestone: 10 years of SOD. This decade has been filled with unforgettable moments, incredible journeys, and meaningful connections. From the heart of Texas to the great outdoors, SOD has proudly hosted veterans, first responders, and youth on a variety of hunting and fishing trips. Today, I want to take a moment to thank every sponsor, supporter, and volunteer who has made this journey possible.

Trophy Whitetail Hunt for Combat Wounded Veteran

A Decade of Service and Adventure

Over the past ten years, SOD has created opportunities for those who serve our communities to experience the outdoors in ways that bring joy, healing, and camaraderie. Our trips have included:

• Hunting: From duck and whitetail deer to axis, gator, dove, oryx, and elk, we have offered a wide range of hunting experiences. Each trip is carefully planned to provide safe, respectful, and rewarding adventures.

• Fishing: Whether offshore in the Gulf or bay fishing in calmer waters, our fishing trips have introduced many to the thrill of the catch and the peace of the water.

  
  

These experiences have been more than just outdoor activities. They have been moments of connection, reflection, and gratitude for those who have given so much.

Honoring Veterans and First Responders

Our commitment to veterans and first responders goes beyond the trips themselves. We recognize the sacrifices made by these individuals and aim to provide them with opportunities to relax, recharge, and build lasting friendships. Many participants have shared how these outings helped them reconnect with nature and find peace after challenging times.

The diversity of trips reflects the varied interests and backgrounds of our guests. For example:

• A veteran who had never hunted before found joy in a dove hunting trip in Texas.

• First responders bonded over offshore fishing, sharing stories and laughter on the boat.

• Youth participants learned valuable skills and respect for wildlife during whitetail and elk hunts.

  
  

These stories highlight the impact of our work and the importance of community support.

Offshore fishing trip for veterans and first responders

Gratitude to Our Sponsors, Supporters, and Volunteers

None of this would be possible without the generosity and dedication of our sponsors, supporters, and volunteers. Your contributions have funded equipment, travel, lodging, and permits that make each trip successful. Volunteers have given countless hours to organize events, guide trips, and ensure safety.

Here’s how your support has made a difference:

• Sponsors have provided financial backing that covers the costs of hunting licenses, fishing gear, and transportation.

• Supporters have donated supplies, meals, and accommodations, creating a welcoming environment for all participants.

• Volunteers have shared their expertise and time, often going above and beyond to mentor youth and assist veterans and first responders.

  
  

Your commitment has built a strong foundation for SOD’s mission and helped us grow year after year.

Looking Ahead to the Next Ten Years

As we celebrate this 10-year milestone, we are excited about the future. We plan to expand our programs, reach more veterans, first responders, and youth, and introduce new types of outdoor adventures. Our goal remains clear: to provide meaningful experiences that foster healing, friendship, and respect for nature.

We invite everyone to continue this journey with us. Whether you are a sponsor, supporter, volunteer, or participant, your involvement matters. Together, we can create even more memories and opportunities for those who serve.

Duck and Gator hunting trip for disabled Veteran/LEO