The 2025 Couples Deer Hunt weekend with Charlie 22 Outdoors at Little Flat Creek Ranch was more than just a hunting trip—it was a time of deep connection and renewal. Sharing the experience as a couple in the blind gave us a chance to slow down, reflect, and truly enjoy each other’s company away from the distractions of everyday life. The quiet moments in nature, waiting and watching together, reminded us of the value of patience, teamwork, and simply being present.
Beyond the hunt itself, the weekend offered a beautiful sense of fellowship with others who share similar values and passions. Being surrounded by like-minded couples who love the outdoors and Jesus created an atmosphere of encouragement and joy. The conversations, laughter, and prayers we shared strengthened our faith and sense of community.
Most importantly, it was a time of spiritual growth and discipleship. Charlie 22 Outdoors provided an environment where faith and the love of Christ were at the center of everything we did. The weekend not only refreshed our spirits but also deepened our relationship with God, with one another, and with the people who have now become lifelong friends.
With grateful hearts, thank you for this incredible experience.
Mark and Tonya Traylor
I cannot tell you enough how thankful and grateful I am that my husband and I were selected to participate in the first Charlie 22/Little Flat Creek Couples retreat and hunt. Kevin and I do not get enough time alone together. That is something we have been actively working on. It keeps our marriage going and keeps the love alive.
First and foremost, I have been trying to find myself and find things that interest me and not just be “mom,” and “wife.” That has been my identity for the last 18 plus years. I have always wanted to hunt but have never been at a point where I have been able to. Kevin usually does the hunting and fishing. This year, our biological oldest graduated high school in the spring, our adopted oldest had her second child, and our youngest completed her first year of high school. We are quickly becoming empty nesters. In a few years that will be our new normal. Realizing this earlier in the year, I told Kevin I wanted to learn to hunt because I feel like it has always been something I would enjoy. Fast forward to the end of August/beginning of September, Kevin stumbled upon your facebook page, then onto your website. He encouraged me to reach outside my comfort zone and jump in feet first if this was something I really wanted to do.
Originally I applied for the antlerless weekend at the beginning of October. After some e-mail exchange, encouragement from Scott, some prayer on it and finally taking the leap, I applied for the couples weekend at the last minute before the deadline. I was completely floored when I found out we were selected. The excitement from the Monday two weeks before all the way through the hunt has kept me going and gave me something new to look forward to. I actually was so excited to be going, that I managed to get nearly two months ahead on writing investigations for my job.
I didn’t know what to expect this past weekend, but I can tell you that the bar has been set exceptionally high! Until we were told on Saturday that this was the first time that a couples retreat had been hosted, I wouldn’t have guessed that. The staff, hosts and all involved with Charlie 22 and Little Flat Creek made it look so easy like they have done it dozens of times before. Everything from the time we got there until the time we left was just truly something amazing and such a blessing.
I got to go on my first hunt. I got to share that with my husband by my side. I got my first kill. While he has been hunting numerous times, he has never taken a deer. He is more into water fowl and is always going out for those due to obstacles we have here hunting for deer (I.E. public land hunts are overran, and we don’t know of anyone with any available property; paid or non paid) Not only did I get my first hunt and first deer, I got to be next to Kevin when he got his first deer! That was an amazing experience that can never be taken away nor can I put into words what it meant to me that we shared all that this past weekend.
The food was Devine. The fellowship was a blessing, I have made new friends that I didn’t know I needed. The message bought by Pastor Matt was exactly what we needed to hear even though we didn’t know we needed to hear it. We hit a stalemate, so to speak, in our marriage about 5-6 years in. We fought for it and have kept it going. I fall more in love with this man every day. He’s my best friend and I would like to think I am his. I never knew there was a passage in the Bible that talks about never giving up that could relate to marriage and he himself is an ordained minister!
Truly, there are no words descriptive enough for the amazing time we had there. Such a blessed, exciting weekend. The lodge was breathtakingly beautiful and being off the grid just did warmed my soul. Best weekend ever!
Jacquelynn Patterson
First I’d like to thank you for the opportunity to attend such a great event and be a part of your organization!
I have been blown away with the hospitality of this organization and the support you provide to veterans like myself. Larry, Russ, and Brady are phenomenal individuals that go out of their way to support our growth not only in the outdoor community but in our personal lives as well. It is always a privilege to meet individuals such as these and share stories of our lives and our hardships that we have overcome.
This weekend has been a great opportunity to improve on my hunting skills and learn new techniques from Russ and Brady. I could not ask for a better group of individuals to spend time with and look forward to building friendships.
Matthew Berry
Charlie 22 has afforded me the honor of continuing to serve my fellow veterans and their families after service. Roaring River is a fantastic time, whether it’s greeting an old friend or meeting a new one. The combination of friendship, fellowship, food, fishing and fun is second to none.
My happy place is in the kitchen and on the water and this event affords us the opportunity to do both. From laughter echoing across the water to laughter echoing across the Fishers of Men grounds, we did not experience a moment without a feeling of happiness and contentment.
As always, it’s an honor to serve Charlie 22 in their efforts to serve those who have already served. My heart is full and my soul is healed. Until next time, I will look upon this weekend with fondness and memories of joy, eager for our next chance to make new ones.
Jesus Cervantes
First, rave reviews from the young ones…
David: the axe throwing was the best part, especially beating Sam
Levi: my favorite part was the fishing.
My thoughts… the property at Little Flat Creek is absolutely beautiful. From listening to the creek, watching the deer, and the interior decorations, it is absolutely phenomenal and idyllic. Todd and Kim were amazing hosts, chefs, and I was awed all weekend by their graciousness.
The event itself was more relaxed and less structed than some events that I have attended, and it was absolute perfection. My soundtrack all weekend was the sound of children’s laughter, nature and conversation with fellow veterans and their families. We fished, swam, sat by the campfire, threw axes, and played yard games and enjoyed every minute of it.
As always, I am grateful for the impact that Charlie 22 has had on my life and was beyond thrilled to be able to share a little bit of that experience with my family this weekend.
Loran Hatfield
Charlie 22 Outdoors has become a meaningful part of my journey as a veteran. I recently had the opportunity to attend my second event—the “Reel Healing” retreat that was put together for female veterans. We laughed, we cried, we prayed, and we shared stories and resources—but most importantly, we formed a bond rooted in our shared experiences and service. There was an immediate sense of camaraderie that made it easy to open up, feel safe and connect.
Fishing was a brand-new experience for me and I didn’t expect how much peace it would bring! It allowed me to be present and forget about outside stress. It was more than just learning a new skill—it was a form of quiet healing and reflection. Being outdoors in that calm, beautiful lake setting gave me space to reset and also step outside my comfort zone.
The Charlie 22 volunteers have touched my heart so much. Knowing they chose to spend time with us—away from their own families—just to serve and care for us was deeply humbling. They created a space filled with warmth, support, yummy food, and encouragement. You leave Charlie 22 events not only feeling refreshed and connected, but also inspired to give back and stay involved. Charlie 22 feels like family.
Dennine Harrison
Good afternoon, Team Operation Beaver Lake 2025! I want to start with Jerry, thank you so much for your service to our great nation. You’re a Veteran in my heart and also please tell your Bride thank you for keeping our heritage alive as well. Thank you so much for your service, your dedication and your family’s support for our nation’s Veterans. I have watched so many organizations come and go and only have interest in their own agenda. Whereas I am convinced that your platform is a very powerful tool for reaching out to Veterans where they are in life. I am truly honored and grateful for the opportunity to be part of this amazing organization. Gary, Jeff and Patrick there will Never be enough words, compliments or love that I now have for the three of you Men. To listen to your testimonies has been so inspiring to me and my faith. Pushing me to renew my belief that every single minute of every single moment of my (dash) in life has not been in vain. And I owe to you Men that the seed you have planted in me Will grow and prosper for the Lord Jesus Christ and I pray that I can be of service to your Team as well in the midst of this journey! Grateful and Blessed. Thank you.
M. White
I want to say my life has changed a lot. When I walked across the bridge and stepped into the cold Creek water, I felt refreshed. I felt clean. I believe the rain was a blessing. I enjoyed the devotional time. The meals were very tasty. I liked all the crafts ideas. I truly enjoyed sleeping on the couch with all the animals around me. I learned to make peace with my pass. Thank you.
Alisa Funnell
Thanks for everything, it was a tremendous honor to spend the weekend with Charlie 22!
Thanks for everyone who made this possible, a weekend I’ll never forget. Your Brother in Christ,
Johnny
I am definitely part of your family now. I am always willing to help out with events. Charlie 22 not only restores my soul, but I am fortunate to make new friends. I appreciate everything Charlie 22 and all the volunteers do and have done this weekend.
Randy Bordner
I really enjoyed the trip. Sharing turkey camp with some amazing people and Heroes really hits home for me!! So honored to have met you all. I appreciate all the work you put into making this event a success. Thank you for inviting this old Warrior to your fellowship!!! I witnessed a lot of healing and definitely some great fellowship as well on this trip. Honored to call you all friends!!
Steve
Charlie 22 Outdoors represents a beacon of hope and healing, a chance to reconnect with nature, myself, and a community that understands the unique challenges veterans face. The opportunity to participate in outdoor activities at Stockton Lake State Park, surrounded by the beauty of Missouri’s landscape, offers a much-needed respite from everyday stressors. More than just a fishing trip, it’s a chance to experience the restorative power of nature, find solace in camaraderie, and rediscover a sense of purpose fueled by the organization’s commitment to faith and fellowship. The fact that all expenses at the event are covered, from food and lodging to fishing gear, demonstrates a deep level of care and respect for the sacrifices veterans have made. The detailed information provided, including arrival times, location specifics, and what to bring, alleviates logistical concerns and allows me to focus on the true purpose of the event: healing and connection. The emphasis on providing for individual needs, such as dietary restrictions and bedding, further reinforces the organization’s dedication to ensuring a comfortable and supportive environment. Beyond the practicalities, the underlying message of hope, love, and God’s grace resonates deeply. Charlie 22 Outdoors isn’t just about providing a weekend getaway; it’s about fostering a sense of belonging and reminding veterans that they are valued and supported. The no alcohol/drug policy underscores the organization’s commitment to creating a safe and healthy environment conducive to healing and spiritual growth. I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity.
Anonymous
Charlie 22 Outdoors provide support and friendship to all veterans. They become family member of Charlie 22 Outdoors. We appreciate all the support and love provide by Charlie 22 Outdoors.
Anonymous
Gentleman; to get to spend a weekend with men that I’d like to be more like, all for different reasons is simply awesome. Veterans: we as Americans definitely do not honor our troops like we used to. Just know that there are millions out there that think about you daily and we are eternally grateful for every sacrifice that you made for us. I hope you have an amazing summer! As I always say… Just Keep Castin!
Patrick Forseth
Very humbling. You vets are my heroes. You don’t get the respect and appreciation that you deserve. That is why I have been so honored to work with Charlie 22. We still cannot repay you veterans for everything you have done for our country, but we’re sure going to strive to do all that we can.
Jeff Wiltgen
As I went to bed early again last night, I definitely had a full heart. It was really neat to get to know and serve you all. Merrill and Jerry thank you for your service. Jeff thank you for the goodness you share. Patrick you’re pretty special guy and you encourage me to stand out in my faith, keep up the great work being a dad!
Gary Whyte
Thank you for all you do for our Veterans. I have had the pleasure of attending one of the fishing trips in Michigan and it was an enjoyable, successful and rewarding event that allowed me to reflect with other Vets on what we have to live for, the challenges we face and connecting with those that can help. God bless you and please continue your efforts to make a difference.
Michael Sherman
My name is Candice, and I’m the wife of an Army veteran, Andy. Over the years, I’ve seen my husband struggle with the invisible wounds — wounds that I couldn’t always understand. I’ve felt the weight of his silence, the tension that would sometimes hang in the air, and the pain he carried but couldn’t express. As a spouse, it’s incredibly difficult to watch someone you love go through that, especially when you feel helpless. In the beginning, I didn’t know what he needed. He would tell me that he was ‘fine,’ but I could see in his eyes that he wasn’t. There were days when he’d retreat into himself, days when he couldn’t sleep or when the smallest thing would set him off. And as much as I wanted to help, I didn’t always know how. I felt isolated, unsure of how to support him without making things worse. I carried my own anxiety about the toll this was taking on our marriage, but I didn’t have the words to express that, either. Or the support to know how. But, I can honestly tell you that God has healed a lot of those wounds and he is a different man because of Jesus!
The idea of connecting with other veterans and their wives was one of the reasons coming to this retreat was so important for both of us. To be able to share with others just what giving it all to God can look like. And that you don’t have to face all those things alone. That there are others who have walked that road and may not have all the answers or have it all together but they know how to pray and how to walk alongside you when things are rough. Charlie 22 has given this to all veterans and their wives. To be able to come together and share with each other in a safe space is such an amazing thing!! And it is so important to the process of healing! I want to express my deepest gratitude to everyone who made this retreat possible. Thank you, Charlie 22 and to the volunteers who gave us their entire weekend and spent it serving us! And to the other veterans and their wives that were there, thank you for sharing your stories and for giving us a weekend full of love and laughter!
C Albertson
I was blessed to be chosen to go on the female Kentucky whitetail hunt in November 2023. To say I was excited is a gross understatement as I could hardly contain myself when Mr. Abner called to confirm my selection and to firm up the details of the hunt. From my first conversation with him, it was evident that he was a Godly man and this made me immediately comfortable. I felt that there was going to be something super special about this hunt and was I ever right! From the moment I arrived, Kevin and his wife from Charlie 22 made me feel so welcome and made absolutely certain anything I needed was provided. He extended such kindness that I felt unworthy of such royal treatment! I also immediately felt the overwhelming presence of God in every person at deer camp. I was greeted warmly and made to feel completely at home. Mrs. Abner provided a warm hug as well as a warm meal at every turn! What an amazing woman of God! We opened our first meal with a prayer and prayed many times throughout the weekend. I felt so loved and so at peace. The pastor of the Abner family church drove 150 miles to come and fellowship with us and he and I still communicate daily. Several of the local neighbors also stopped by daily to pray with us and for us. The atmosphere on this hunt was so life-affirming and life-changing. To say I was blessed pales in comparison to what I actually felt and took away from the weekend.
I was able to kill a very nice whitetail, but honestly, that was only icing on the cake as the greater benefit was the deeper connection to God that I obtained and achieved. I felt so close to God every single second I was in the deer blind, but equally felt the same peacefulness while fellowshipping with the Abners and Charlie 22 staff members. Thank you does not seem near enough to express my gratitude, because I feel eternally grateful and blessed to have had this experience and to have what I believe to be new life-long friends! Thank you and God Bless Charlie 22!
C. Boyken
Our names are Adam and Katie. We first met each other at the Charlie22 Operation Spring Canyon event in September of 2022. Not only did we fall in love with each other, but we fell in love with your mission to positively impact the lives of veterans through fellowship and fostering a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Your team has always been so kind, and every visit with you feels like a home away from home. We wanted to share the happy news of our engagement! God brought us together through Charlie22 and we’ve never felt more blessed.
K. Hattersley
I met with Scotty in January 2022. It was the morning after I was informed that a good friend of mine and retired 2 Star General was found in his home unresponsive. On my way to the city of Joplin, Missouri, to meet with Scotty, I was informed that my buddy had taken his own life…..pause. A 2 Star General Officer…..a Combat Veteran 2 Star General Officer….What???????? Yep. My friend and Brother in Arms, a 2 Star General Officer, had taken his own life. This was number two. My best friend, a Retired Lieutenant Colonel had taken his own life in 2012. So now I have two close friends, both Combat Veterans and both losing the struggle with the demons that haunt us Veterans. To add to the mix, my Son, currently a Major in the Army, lost his first wife to suicide. Two hours after we promoted my Son to Major, tragedy struck. Many thoughts run through the mind. One of the biggest is WHY? When speaking to Army Chaplains back in 2012, trying to wrap my head around the loss of one of my best friends, one Chaplain told me that people just loose hope. They don’t know Jesus as their Lord and Savior and they flat out loose hope. During my first volunteer opportunity with Charlie 22, I was honored to have had the opportunity to fish and talk with a young man who just lit up when we spoke of Jesus!!! Jesus is our HOPE as military Veterans. And even more if you witnessed the horrors of the battlefield. Charlie 22 has a mission. It is a mission to ensure that Veterans understand that we have HOPE! HOPE is a person. HOPE is Jesus!!!!! My prayer is that Scotty and all the Volunteers understand that they bring HOPE, they bring Jesus, to Veterans struggling to find that HOPE.
M. Costello COL(R)
When you join the military they whisk you away, erase everything and create you as something new. With this comes promises of what the rest of your life is going to be like. You’re talked to, mentored, and trained to believe your life makes a difference, and it does. Then it doesn’t. Life after the military is going to be far better than anything you could dream. College, job skills, leadership, you’ve got it all. You’re going to have it all. Then it comes time to come home, and for far too many like me nothing really makes sense. We hear the words “22 a day” like it’s some kind of mantle that is waiting for someone to pick up. No one dares to address the truth that it’s more like 50 a day. We just can’t track them all. We sell t-shirts, do push-ups, then make Facebook posts that make us look aware. We fool ourselves that we are making a difference. In the end its all-verbal reassurances to ourselves that we didn’t look the other way. Their war didn’t stop, but I wear this shirt, so I must care. Then there are the rare people like the crew at Charlie 22 Outdoors. They don’t ask for anything much less recognition. They just want to lower that number. Even if they take it down just one number. Whatever it is and show God’s love, and truly make a difference.
When I showed up, they welcomed me. They didn’t know until three days later that I was nervous and tried to find every reason to cancel under the sun. If it wasn’t for my wife urging me, I would have disappeared. They laughed and joked at my single shot 20 gauge. They told me I could borrow a gun. That I would need more shots. As the weekend went on they became more understanding, they realized I was holding onto that gun because it reminded me of my youth. It reminded me of a time when things made sense. They began to cheer that gun. The birds dropped. I understood them, and they understood me a little more. Then something changed. I realized that I had inadvertently put my guard down. I was truly around people that loved me. Not in a superficial way. Not looking for approval, but pure and real way. I still talk to them today. The text chain we started is still active. I still feel like I have brothers. It doesn’t matter if it’s what someone is cooking, a hunting trip, or someone’s new grandchild, you’re going to get a picture or a text. It’s an avenue. It’s someone who is there. Someone who is always looking to pray for you, whether you feel like you deserve it or not. Scotty said the last day, he’s not trying to change the world. I would argue that, because the only way that number goes down is one at a time. Take 22 to 21, then 21 to 20, the 20 to 19. That’s how you change the world. One life at a time.
J. R. Jackson
Nothing is an accident! Must have been meant to be. It was an amazing weekend. I quite literally did not know how much I needed it or how much it would mean to me.
I have never opened a Bible before really in my life. But when I did last night, it opened directly to Psalm 27. And I can tell you that in all my years on this planet, I haven’t been religious. I know that I was supposed to be there this weekend for something greater. I was supposed to be given that Bible and meet the people I met.
Just in the hours since I left, I have begun to make amends with people I have not talked to in some time. Including my own family.
While driving home, I felt I was floating on a cloud. I know for a fact I need to become the best person I can. And that starts with my family and mending any relationships I have severed. There is no room for anything in my heart but love. I quite literally feel like I was born today and I have a new perspective on life. Just 2 days ago, I’d think I was crazy myself telling myself what I’m saying now. But I literally was filled up with joy, kindness, and gratefulness.
Anonymous
This has been an unbelievable trip! I wouldn’t change a thing. Russ is such a kind hearted person and Kevin went above and beyond with being a guide. Both were perfect examples on what Charlie 22 stands for. I started reading the Bible about two months ago. Keep up this amazing ministry as you are doing such great and wonderful things.
J. Horton
Thank you for the weekend. Everything was amazing. I’m going to share your message with my family.
R. Bertke
We often hear, “Thank you for your service.” I want to say thank you to you guys for being the kind of people we want to serve.
E. Forgacs
What can I say about this weekend!?! MARSH MADNESS!!! First of all, I’d like to thank the Lord above for such an incredible time. The whole time you could tell that the event was blessed by God. It was great from the start and at each turn got better. He kept everyone safe throughout this adventure. He allowed us to harvest many pheasant, chuckers, and ducks. God is Good!
Anonymous
