Disabled veterans go elk hunting

Tools

Story Published: Sep 15, 2009 at 9:59 PM MST

Story Updated: Sep 16, 2009 at 11:44 AM MST

By Jennifer McGraw

Video

IDAHO FALLS - His name is Elliott Miller - a Navy SEAL who suffered severe brain damage when he was hit by a massive explosion in Southern Iraq.

His name is Ben McDonald - while serving as a member of the Illinois Guard in Afghanistan, his left hand was blown off by a sniper's high explosive machine gun.

They have come to Idaho for something very special.

"At Camp Patriot, we take veterans on outdoor adventures and this particular trip we're giving the opportunity to do a dream and hunt elk here in Idaho," says Micah Clark.

Micah Clark founded Camp Patriot to help wounded soldiers enjoy something special in their lives.

With the help of the Safari Club International's Northwest Chapter, which is paying the bills, and Madison County Sheriff Roy Klingler, who helped arrange the visit, these wounded soldiers will spend the next four days hunting for elk at the Squirrel Creek Ranch near Ashton.

"I've never actually seen an elk out here in the wild. I think it's going to be a great experience to get out there and hear them bugling calling and everything, get out there and see them," said McDonald.

Miller, who is from San Diego, and McDonald, who is from Shelbyville, Illinois, have never been to Idaho before and this will be a trip they will never forget.

"We're all just concentrating on trying to repay the guys who have done so much for our country. What else can we do for them," said Michael Price.

Current Weather

Current Temp 42.0 °F

Overcast

Video

More Weather

Current Weather

More Weather

Upload directly from your mobile device.

Learn how

YouNews

This content requires the latest Adobe Flash Player and a browser with JavaScript enabled. Click here for a free download of the latest Adobe Flash Player.