Every December, something meaningful unfolds in DeLeon, Texas — not because of tradition alone, but because of intent.
The Roger Kerbow Memorial Hunt, hosted by Hometown Hero Outdoors – Team Texas, brings together Veterans and youth for a beginner-friendly deer hunt rooted in mentorship, education, and shared experience. It isn’t about trophies or numbers. It’s about learning skills that last a lifetime and honoring a legacy that still matters.
Honoring the Legacy of Roger Kerbow
The hunt carries the name Roger Kerbow for a reason.
Roger believed in the outdoors as a place where real lessons are learned — patience, responsibility, respect for wildlife, and confidence built through experience. This memorial hunt reflects those values by creating space for first-time hunters, meaningful mentorship, and families who walk away stronger than they arrived.
A Beginner-Friendly Hunt With Purpose
The Roger Kerbow Memorial Hunt is intentionally designed to welcome new and first-time hunters.
Participants are introduced to firearm safety and ethical hunting practices, how to observe wildlife and read the land, the responsibility that comes with harvesting an animal, and the full process of providing food from field to table.
By Sunday, many participants experience the complete cycle of the hunt, including processing their own venison — reinforcing respect, responsibility, and self-sufficiency.
Veterans and Youth Learning Side by Side
One of the most powerful aspects of this hunt is the Veteran–youth connection.
Veterans bring leadership, patience, and experience shaped by service. Youth bring curiosity and excitement. Together, they create moments that can’t be replicated in a classroom or on a screen.
These shared experiences help build confidence and responsibility in youth, purpose and connection for Veterans, and stronger family and community bonds.
For many involved, this weekend becomes a defining first — a first hunt, first harvest, or first time feeling truly connected outdoors.
A Personal Commitment to the Mission
The Roger Kerbow Memorial Hunt is made possible not only through partnerships, but through personal commitment.
Shaun Olsberg, Vice President of Hometown Hero Outdoors, opened his private Texas property to host the hunt — ensuring a safe, welcoming environment where Veterans and youth could learn without pressure or distraction.
By opening his land, Shaun helped keep the focus exactly where it belongs: mentorship, education, and honoring the legacy behind the hunt.
Community Support Makes It Possible
Events like this don’t happen without strong partners who believe in the mission.
Hometown Hero Outdoors is grateful for the continued support of the West Texas Chapter Safari Club International and Project 22.
Their commitment helps ensure Veterans and youth have access to meaningful outdoor experiences that support skill-building, mental well-being, and connection.
Why the Roger Kerbow Memorial Hunt Matters
In a fast-moving world that often disconnects people from one another, this hunt slows things down.
It reminds us that skills passed down matter, mentorship changes lives, healing and growth often happen outdoors, and legacy is built through action — not words.
The Roger Kerbow Memorial Hunt is more than a weekend event. It reflects what Hometown Hero Outdoors stands for.
About Hometown Hero Outdoors
Hometown Hero Outdoors (HHO) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving Veterans, active-duty military, and first responders through outdoor recreation and shared experiences. From hunting and fishing to conservation-focused trips, HHO believes that healing happens outdoors — and no one heals alone.
Learn more at www.hometownherooutdoors.org.
