More Than a Hunt: Veterans Find Fellowship at Minnesota Turkey Camp
For three veterans in central Minnesota, a spring turkey hunt turned into something much bigger than chasing gobblers in the woods.
On May 10, the 2nd annual Faith, Fellowship & Feathers Veterans Turkey Hunt brought veterans together at Lake Placid Bible Camp — near Pillager, Minnesota — for a weekend focused on turkey hunting, faith and fellowship. Hosted through the veterans ministry at The Waters Church, the event gave veterans an opportunity to learn about turkey hunting, spend time outdoors and connect with other veterans.
Kevin Hurst, NWTF senior regional director in Minnesota, started the hunt last year. After asking if any veterans would be interested in learning to turkey hunt, the idea quickly grew into a full weekend camp experience that participants now look forward to every spring.
This year’s veterans included Tim Engle, Raul Muniz and Jonathan Lynn. Mentoring the hunters throughout the weekend were Hurst and Minnesota NWTF State Chapter President Ralph Warzecha.
For Jonathan Lynn and Raul Muniz, the weekend became even more memorable when both harvested their first wild turkeys.
While the successful hunts created plenty of excitement, those involved said the heart of the weekend went far beyond filling a tag.
Held at Lake Placid Bible Camp during a quieter time before the busy summer season begins, the setting gave veterans a chance to slow down, spend time outdoors and connect with others who understand military service and shared experiences. Between hunts, the group shared meals, stories and conversations around camp, building friendships that organizers say have become just as important as the hunting itself.
Many participants said they already plan to return next year, not only for the chance to hunt again, but for the fellowship that came with camp life.
“As much as we all love turkey hunting and the excitement and thrill to our core, sharing that with someone who has sacrificed so much for our country is priceless,” Hurst said.
The event served as another reminder of how the outdoors can bring people together and create lasting support systems long after military service ends.
Participants also received donated shirts from RISE, featuring the phrase “Love Jesus Hunt Turkeys,” a slogan that quickly became a fitting description of the weekend itself.
As the Faith, Fellowship & Feathers hunt continues to grow, organizers hope the focus remains the same: creating a place where veterans can experience the outdoors, build friendships and find community through hunting camp traditions that last far beyond turkey season.
