A Purple Heart recipient will be treated to an authentic Wyoming backcountry spot-and-stalk bison hunt on private land west of Meeteetse, thanks to the generosity of the Rocky Mountain Heroes Foundation, and the guiding services of Powell resident and professional hunter Ken Klemm.

Retired Staff Sergeant Christopher Kosiavelon, who began his military career in the Navy in 1992, later joined the U.S. Army before being deployed to Afghanistan to Camp Stone from 2010-2011. While dismounted during convoy operations, he was struck by an improvised explosive device and received a Purple Heart Medal for the injuries he sustained.

Upon returning to Fort Carson, he was assigned to the Warrior Transition Unit while recovering from injuries. He was medically retired in 2014. His decorations include the Purple Heart, six Army Commendation Medals, five Army Achievement Medals, Army Combat Action Badge, Mechanic Badge and USN Sea Service Deployment. 

Rocky Mountain Heroes Foundation organizers and volunteers, including Klemm, Retired Command Sergeant Major Dale Veneklasen, Brian Soliday of Rocky Mountain Heroes Foundation, and donors will host the annual hunt free of charge for Kosiavelon. Ray and Chris Hatfield of Nature’s Design Taxidermy in Cody have also generously offered their services free of charge.  

“We’re pleased to put together this 6th Annual Purple Heart recipient hunt. It’s a real joy and a privilege to be able to give back to our troops in a meaningful way. We understand how ethical hunting and time in nature can help heal the soul and we are so glad that we are able to provide this hunt for Mr. Kosiavelon,” said Klemm, who is the event co-sponsor.

Those wishing to thank this brave warrior for his service are invited to stop by an after-hunt dinner Saturday evening, Jan. 6 at 5:30 p.m. at The Irma restaurant in Cody. 

The Rocky Mountain Heroes Foundation’s mission is to help disabled U.S. military veterans and their children (families) based in the Rocky Mountain states to reintegrate into civilian life by building a sense of community, camaraderie, and self-confidence. The program engages in volunteer and outreach events to build connections between our members, their families, and our communities. We use hunting and fishing adventures to build family connections and provide therapy to our members. We provide our members and their families the opportunity to participate in field-based adventures at a level appropriate to their skill level and physical ability, building their self-confidence, relieving stress and enhancing family bonds.  The Rocky Mountain Heroes Foundation is an IRS Certified 501(c)3.  All donations are tax deductible.

Visit www.rmheroes.org to learn more.