Operation Gunsmoke raises funds for Young County Warrior Ranch

The Young County Warrior Ranch hosted Operation Gunsmoke, its annual helicopter hog hunt fundraiser, last weekend. Now in the event’s ninth year, veterans from more than 25 states gathered to raise money for the ranch. The Young County Warrior Ranch is a 501c3 non-profit organization that brings veterans together to enjoy hunting, fishing and fellowship.

Friday consisted of an aerial marksmanship training day. Participants were airlifted via helicopter and flew to multiple steel targets. The sessions lasted two-three minutes.

“That’s our training that they do,” James Pippin, YCWR board member said. “(We do it) so that guys aren’t learning this as they’re shooting at a pig for the first time.”

The hunting sessions Saturday lasted 20-30 minutes and took place over 22,000 acres of land owned by multiple silent donors along the Brazos River.

For the rest of the story, see the March 24 edition of The Graham Leader.