The heart of a volunteer is something that can be underappreciated and go unnoticed to many. These are the people who don’t do things for notoriety and fortune, but out of the goodness of their hearts. We are lucky when we have them in our communities, and it is something special to witness when these kind souls step up to help our veterans.

If there is one group of people that seem to fall through the cracks in society, it is sadly our veterans, who bravely put their lives on the line when serving their country, and ask for nothing in return except for freedom. They have sacrificed so much for their country and those who call America home, the least we can do is respect and support them in their post-service lives.

I recently met Bret Sample, a U.S. Army veteran that has large ambitions to help the veteran community and is actively making it happen. Forgotten Heroes Ranges and Retreat is Bret’s brainchild to help disabled veterans relax, cope, and find camaraderie with other veterans. Alongside Bret is a great team of volunteers that makes the mission possible. The facility is located in McGregor and helps serve veterans from across the state. The goal of the organization is to make it possible for any veteran, regardless of ability, to enjoy the same outdoor activities as able-bodied people. Forgotten Heroes is committed to the brave folks that have earned and deserve the right to enjoy activities that most of us often take for granted.

I was disappointed that Democrats failed to provide any assistance to this facility in the last legislative session. We saw billions going to wasteful projects across the state, yet comparatively there was little allocated for our veterans and the services needed to improve their quality of life. We need to do better. While the VA provides what it can, veterans are in need of additional resources, specifically when it comes to mental health and wellbeing.

We are lucky to have Forgotten Heroes in our state, because they are helping veterans with their mental health by offering space for veterans to relax and enjoy the outdoors, all while connecting with other veterans who have faced similar hardships. There are currently two ranges built for pistol, rifle, and bow, and they are in the process of building other structures that will be completely handicap accessible. These buildings are designed to fully aid anyone with a disability so they can also enjoy shooting sports without limitations. There will be a campground, trails, and ponds for veterans to enjoy with their families and caretakers. A veterans community center will also be constructed for use by local and regional veterans groups (American Legion, VFW, DAV, PVA, VSO and other veteran organizations). These services and programs are incredibly important and they’re filling gaps—they’re providing veterans with needed support, and offering safe outlets for them to engage in activities and connect with others.

Our veterans should never be left behind, and we owe our thanks to every volunteer who steps up to serve veterans and complete missions like what Forgotten Heroes has set out to do. It’s an unfortunate reality that so many veterans feel abandoned and feel as though their needs are not addressed by the legislature. Despite that, we are lucky to live in the midst of everyday folks who are willing to step up and help these brave men and women. Both veterans and the volunteers that assist them deserve our continued thanks and admiration