Combat Veteran Hunt Award / Combat Veteran Award

Annual award honoring combat veterans for service above and beyond the call of duty through hunting opportunities.

Geographic Scope: United States

Focus Areas:

• Veteran recognition and appreciation
• Combat veteran honor
• Military service recognition

Award Details:

• Recipient receives a hunting trip package
• Recent award example: 3-day, 2-night Axis deer hunt in September 2026 for one hunter and one non-hunter, donated by Union Hill Ranch in Kopperl, TX, including accommodation, trophy fees, and DFW airport transfers
• Animal cost: $3,500

Eligibility:

• Veterans with combat service experience
• Nominated by SCI Chapters or self-nominated

Selection Process:

• Online platform for veteran applications
• Subcommittee within Veterans Committee evaluates submissions
• One recipient selected annually

Recent Winner: Kyle Tripp, President of SCI Alaska Chapter (2026 recipient). Served active duty February 2004 - June 2024 with multiple deployments. In 2025, organized hunting expeditions to provide food for tribes impacted by natural disaster in Alaska.

Contact Information:

• Armando Gutierrez, Executive Assistant, Volunteer Services, [email protected]
• Laurine Wolf, Deputy Director of Humanitarian Services, [email protected]

Application Process

1. Eligibility Check: Confirm you are a combat veteran with eligible service experience (Prisoner of War or Purple Heart veterans also eligible for additional hunts)
2. Online Submission: Submit application through online platform
   • Platform details available through SCIF website
3. Required Information:
   • Combat service details
   • Service dates and history
   • Any special circumstances or achievements
   • Essay on why deserving of award (typically required)
4. Timeline: Applications typically due by November (November 11 deadline noted for chapter nominations)
5. Selection: SCIF Veterans Committee subcommittee evaluates all submissions and selects honoree
6. Award Presentation: Recipient recognized and receives award at SCI Annual Convention (typically January)

Contact for Nomination or Application

• Email: [email protected]
• Name: Armando Gutierrez
• Title: Executive Assistant, Volunteer Services