A Hunt to Remember, A Legacy to Honor

Some retreats leave us with unforgettable memories. Others remind us of the people who made those memories possible.

Our annual Warrior Pheasant Hunt in Pierre, South Dakota, brought together Purple Heart recipients for outstanding hunting, beautiful surroundings, and the camaraderie that makes Warrior Bonfire retreats so meaningful.

Hosted in partnership with The Ranch Ministries, this retreat combines outdoor adventure, fellowship, and faith in one of the country’s premier pheasant hunting destinations. Designed to accommodate wheelchair users, it also gives Purple Heart recipients with mobility challenges opportunities to experience the connection, encouragement, and healing at the heart of our mission.

Celebrating Friendship and Legacy

This year’s retreat held an especially meaningful moment.

During the gathering, they unveiled a memorial on the ranch property honoring Dan Fordice, founder of the Warrior Bonfire Program. For 11 years, Dan personally flew Purple Heart recipients to South Dakota for this annual hunt. It was one of his favorite retreats, and over the years, he built lasting friendships with the veterans, volunteers, and partners who made it possible.

Many of those gathered this year knew Dan personally, making the dedication a moving tribute to a man whose passion for serving Purple Heart recipients helped change countless lives. Seeing those friendships endure reminded us that his legacy extends far beyond the retreats he helped create.

We’re extremel grateful to The Ranch Ministries and the dedicated volunteers whose continued commitment makes this annual tradition possible. Their generosity and partnership reflect the relationships Dan built and the mission he believed in so deeply.

As we look forward to many more years of the Warrior Pheasant Hunt, we’re reminded that Dan’s legacy lives on through every Purple Heart recipient who discovers friendship, encouragement, and healing through Warrior Bonfire.