As the afternoon sun struggled to break through a heavy veil of grey skies, and scattered rain showers danced upon the landscape, a remarkable gathering of camouflage-clad hunters took shape, one that bridged the gap between nature’s unpredictability and the unwavering spirit of America’s wounded warriors.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Charleston District, in collaboration with the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources and the South Carolina Department of Veteran’s Affairs, breathed life back into a cherished tradition on Sept. 9 – the annual Wounded Warrior Dove Hunt. Held at the Charleston District’s Cooper River Rediversion Project in St. Stephen, the event marked a return after its unfortunate cancellation in 2022 due to inclement weather.
“The Wounded Warrior Dove Hunt is a testament to the unwavering commitment we share with SCDNR and our Lowcountry veterans to honor and support our nation’s wounded veterans,” said Ronnie June, CRRP’s natural resources manager. “This event provides an opportunity for veterans to connect with nature, enjoy camaraderie and engage in the therapeutic and recreational benefits of outdoor activities, specifically dove hunting.”
More than 40 wounded warriors and their families attended the event. Spread out over 90 acres of game fields, the resounding thunder of shotguns proved a testament to the enduring spirit of America’s veterans and their ability to find solace and healing in the great outdoors.
“This is such a great event and it’s a privilege to work alongside our partners to provide such a meaningful experience to our wounded warriors,” said David Rozelle, SCDVA director of operations, wounded warrior and dove hunt participant. “Experiences like these can work wonders for our veterans and we’d like to see events like this statewide.”
The SCDNR plays a pivotal role in ensuring the success of this event, providing the huntable land and expertise in wildlife management for USACE. SCDNR regulations permit shooting doves on or over harvested fields composed of combined or picked corn, combined soybean fields, or other fall harvested crops. Fields where crops are grown and manipulated for wildlife management purposes are also included as well as fields where wheat or other grains have recently been planted.
Under a long-term agreement, roughly 95 percent of Charleston District’s CRRP property at St. Stephen’s Powerhouse is managed as a state wildlife management area.
SCDNR works diligently to create a safe and enjoyable environment for participants while facilitating the dove hunting experience and the Wounded Warrior Fishing Day held in the spring.
The cancellation of last year’s dove hunt due to inclement weather only fueled the determination to make this year’s gathering even more memorable.
Under SCDNR dove hunting regulations, hunters are permitted up to 15 doves per day in specified wildlife management areas. Through their collective effort, dozens of doves were harvested.
“We were disappointed to have to cancel last year’s event, but we are thrilled to be back this year despite a little rain,” said Lt. Col. Robert Nahabedian, Charleston District commander. “The excitement of all the veterans that came out today for the dove hunt is a testament to the indomitable spirit of veterans and a reminder of the enduring bond between those who serve our country and the land they call home.”