Ducks Unlimited Volunteers Help Oregon Veterans Connect Through Waterfowling

CORVALLIS, Ore. – April 11, 2025 – Each year, after Oregon’s regular waterfowl hunting season winds down, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife sets aside one special day, —a day dedicated to honoring those who have served. The Veterans and Active Military Personnel Waterfowl Hunt is more than just a chance to be in the field; it's a heartfelt thank-you to the men and women who’ve worn the uniform. 

This year, the spirit of giving back found a passionate advocate in Carl Eckhold, an avid waterfowler and Ducks Unlimited (DU) volunteer with the Corvallis Beaver Chapter and owner of ACE Outdoors. Eckhold reached out to his local chapter and the response was immediate. Volunteers from across the community stepped up, eager to give veterans and active-duty service members a well-deserved day in the blind. 

Thanks to Eckhold’s efforts, nearly 20 veterans signed up to participate. Each was matched with either a private landowner or a volunteer club, ensuring they’d have not only a place to hunt but also experienced support. But the planning didn’t stop there. Eckhold arranged a morning meeting point, coordinated transportation, and funded and organized a post-hunt lunch himself. 

“This hunt is an opportunity to give back to these veterans,” Eckhold said. “Some are seasoned waterfowlers, and others are brand new. Either way, it’s about honoring their sacrifices and celebrating the freedoms we enjoy. I hope this inspires others to find ways to give back in their own communities.” 

On hunt day, participants gathered over hot coffee and breakfast. For some, it was a return to a beloved pastime. For others, a brand-new experience. But for all involved, it was a chance to connect, reflect, and enjoy the shared passion for water fowling. The hunts were successful, birds were taken, and friendships were formed across blinds and backstories. 

After the hunt, everyone reconvened for a hearty lunch of pulled pork and burgers, swapping stories, laughing over the morning’s highlights, and building bonds. 

Ducks Unlimited Volunteer Carl Eckhold, with the help of the Corvallis Beaver Chapter, spearheaded the planning for this year's veteran hunt.

James Rice, chair of the Corvallis Beaver Chapter, mentored a group of veterans. and summed up “This was a complete success, and we hope to continue for years to come, Rice said. “A huge thank-you to Mr. Eckhold for making it all happen.” 

“The event’s organization and the incredible volunteers made this day unforgettable,” said Kelly Warren, DU’s Western Oregon regional biologist, who also mentored veterans. “It was a true privilege to share our passion for waterfowling with these veterans.” 

Several landowners who heard about the event have expressed interest in participating next year, and there’s a shared excitement about making future hunts even bigger. 

With the commitment of DU’s dedicated volunteers, there’s no doubt this tradition will keep growing, honoring more veterans, building stronger communities and sharing in the common interest of conservation. 

For more information, visit www.ducks.org, 

Ducks Unlimited Inc. is the world's largest nonprofit organization dedicated to conserving North America's continually disappearing wetlands, grasslands and other waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has restored or protected more than 19 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science, DU’s projects benefit waterfowl, wildlife and people in all 50 states. DU is growing its mission through a historic $3 billion Conservation For A Continent capital campaign. Learn more at www.ducks.org. 

Media Contact: 
 Molly Jarone 
 (916) 903-9199 
 mjarone@ducks.org