Annual Heroes Hunt honors law enforcmencement

RIVERSIDE - After completing a sweep through pheasantless cover, law enforcement officers do not holler, 'Clear! Clear!”

They do, however, handle their firearms, including shotguns with birdshot, with care and efficiency. They do appreciate the recognition bestowed on them Saturday when they were the guests of honor at the annual Heroes Hunt sponsored by the Linn County Chapter of Pheasants Forever.

'We don't ask for recognition, but it's nice to get it,” said Scott Smith, resident agent in charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration's Cedar Rapids office - one of 18 federal, state and local law enforcement officers participating in the guided hunts at Highland Hideaway Hunting.

'It's a great opportunity to get to know some of your law enforcement colleagues in a more relaxed and enjoyable setting,” said Ken Runde, a former Dubuque County sheriff now serving as U.S. Marshall for Iowa's Northern District.

Retired Division of Criminal Investigation agent Wade Kisner, who coordinates the Heroes Hunt, said the event recognized military veterans last year and will shine the spotlight on firefighters next year.

'It's a way to pay them back for the risks they take and the dedication they put forth in protecting the community,” said Kisner, whose English setters, Sweet Lou and Adeline, pointed and retrieved pheasants Saturday for Smith, Runde, retired FBI agent Dick Heft and retired Marion police Capt. Joe Neuhaus.

Although the officers do most of their firing range qualifications with handguns, they proved themselves 'pretty handy” with shotguns too, Kisner said.

Smith, a Texas native who has seldom hunted pheasants, said Saturday's experience 'hooked” him on the sport.

Heft said the Heroes Hunt is 'a great way to thank those who take risks for the rest of us.”

In addition to honoring community heroes, the event helps Pheasants Forever promote the importance of wildlife habitat and the enjoyment of pheasant hunting, said Chapter President Jeff Pitlik.