HAVA Hosts Native American Marine Veteran on Bison Hunt

by
posted on April 8, 2021
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
main-buffalo-hunt.jpg
Honored American Veterans Afield (HAVA) had the privilege of hosting retired/disabled Marine veteran Tray Ardese on a bison hunt, at the Dismal River Club in Nebraska.

Tray Ardese, is a Native American from the Choctaw tribe, a retired United States Marine with 25 years of service, and an avid hunter.  He said “This was my first opportunity, but I always knew God would provide a way for me to hunt buffalo. It just never materialized until this hunt and I am so grateful to HAVA.”

In the Sandhills area of Nebraska, along the Dismal River, retired National Football League player and Nebraska native, John Howell, hosted the hunt with Dismal River Outfitters at the Dismal River Club. A restored and now self-sustaining herd of bison make these rolling prairie-land hills their home.  Each year only a few bison are harvested for herd management. Ardese’s hunt, as can be seen below, was a successful one.

Buffalo downed in front of three hunters

HAVA’s outreach manager, Heath Gunns who was there to support the hunt said “HAVA is extremely grateful to John and the Dismal River team for the work they do to help preserve the American bison; and for this amazing and very select opportunity for a veteran to pursue such an iconic animal. We are so pleased to be a part of bringing Tray on this hunt.”

For more on HAVA, check out honoredveterans.org.

Latest

Ledemule Deer
Ledemule Deer

Mule Deer Foundation Renews BLM Agreement, Receives Conservation Grant

The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) has awarded the Mule Deer Foundation (MDF) with a $744,000 grant to expand efforts to restore habitat and improve wildlife connectivity across the Northern Great Plains.

Selecting the Perfect Shotgun

Shotguns vary greatly, but there is an ideal match for everyone. Here is what you need to know to identify it.

New for 2026: Bergara Platinum Stalker

Bergara has introduced the Bergara Platinum Stalker, designed for hunters who appreciate the traditional look and feel of a wood stock rifle, but want the stiffness and rigidity that laminate offers.

First Look: Tuo Solent Jacket and Pant

Tuo has introduced it's Solent Jacket and Pant, designed to take hunters from the midseason all the way through that last icy eyelash of winter.

New for 2026: Ol' Man Outdoors Elevated Command Posts

For hunters seeking a sturdy and spacious elevated platform, a standard tripod or ladder stand often isn't enough. The Quad Pod series from Ol'Man Outdoors offers a solution, featuring the BaseCamp 7-foot Quad Pod (OT-702) and the Fortress Deluxe 12-foot Quad Pod (OT-703).

Beretta Releases A300 Ultima in Mossy Oak Original Bottomland and Shadow Grass

Beretta has introduced the A300 Ultima in two legendary Mossy Oak camouflage patterns: Original Bottomland and Original Shadow Grass.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.