Great Outdoor Path
The much-anticipated Great Outdoors Path is here once again, bringing an exciting array of opportunities to explore nature, connect with fellow adventurers, and experience the thrill of the outdoors. Each season, we continue to grow and expand our offerings to make every moment on the path one to remember—filled with adventure, camaraderie, and purpose. Get ready for unforgettable experiences and breathtaking scenery as we embark on this incredible journey together.
Take a ride on our Uncle J Custom mud boat.
SSgt Carson Ostermann
We had the distinct pleasure of taking SSgt Carson Ostermann on an exciting duck and goose hunt this past weekend as part of our impactful Mission2Thrive program. SSgt Ostermann proudly joins us from the United States Marine Corps stationed at MCAS Yuma, Arizona, with the illustrious VMFA-214 "Black Sheep" squadron. We were also fortunate to have his father, Tim Ostermann, who is a dedicated volunteer for the MAY Foundation, joining us on this adventure in the Great Outdoors. Although the geese weren't particularly cooperative, we were thrilled to successfully bring in a beautiful duck for him. Everyone had a fantastic time, filled with camaraderie, and we are eagerly looking forward to bringing out our next excited participant in the near future!
Petty Officer 1st Class Jeff Mclauglin
We had the privilege of spending the day with James "Jeff" Mclaughlin, a 15-year active duty member of the U.S. Coast Guard, on a goose hunt. Jeff, currently serving at U.S. Coast Guard Station Sheboygan as a Machinery Technician 1st Class, has dedicated 15 years to serving our nation, with assignments in Alaska, Texas, Louisiana, Iowa, and now Wisconsin.
Despite the wet weather and the lack of birds, it was a day full of camaraderie, laughter, and new experiences. It was an honor getting to know Jeff better and sharing with him a new hobby he can enjoy for years to come. We are grateful for his dedication to our country and look forward to helping him and many others discover the joys of the outdoors and the healing it brings.
Thank you, Jeff, for your service and for sharing this day with us.
Chief Warrant Officer 4 Allen Ostermann
Retired Chief Warrant Officer Allen Ostermann, Jr., recently experienced a memorable and successful hunt as part of the Military and Youth Foundation's Mission2Thrive program, "Great Outdoor Path." A proud Marine from Virginia, CWO Ostermann served with distinction in the United States Marine Corps for 23 years, earning numerous commendations during assignments at Camp Lejeune, NC; Okinawa, Japan; Naval Air Station Whidbey Island; Fort Gregg-Adams (formerly Fort Lee), VA; Defense Language Institute in Monterey, CA; and in Stevens Point, WI.
Guided by MAY Foundation Volunteer Tim Ostermann—who is also Allen’s cousin—and MAY Foundation Chairman Craig Stewart, Allen immersed himself in the camaraderie and tranquility of the great outdoors. Reflecting on the experience, Chairman Stewart remarked, "Allen had a long, honorable career serving our nation. Giving him and other veterans like him these opportunities is the least we can do for the sacrifices they have made."
This heartfelt initiative exemplifies the power of community and gratitude, bringing together family, friends, and fellow veterans to honor those who have selflessly given so much for their country.
SFC Jack Bardsley and SSG David Bardsley
This year’s Wisconsin waterfowl opener brought something truly special to the Mission2Thrive Great Outdoors Path. We had the honor of hosting brothers Jack and David Bardsley, both proud U.S. Army Veterans, who made the trip all the way from Ohio to join us for a weekend of camaraderie, healing, and adventure in the marsh.
David Bardsley, who served 15 years and separated as a Staff Sergeant (SSG) in 2021, deployed to Iraq in 2009 and 2010. His brother, Jack Bardsley, deployed to the Middle East three times, retiring as a Sergeant First Class (SFC). Both men brought with them the discipline, humor, and quiet resilience that only those who’ve worn the uniform truly understand.
Over the course of opening weekend, the brothers enjoyed successful hunts—the kind of mornings that remind you why we do this. Ducks cupped into the decoys, laughter echoed across the blinds, and for a few days, the noise of everyday life faded into the rhythm of nature.
Beyond the birds, though, this hunt was about more than just pulling the trigger. It was about connection, brotherhood, and finding peace in the places that still feel wild and real. Programs like Mission2Thrive exist to give veterans and first responders a chance to reconnect—with nature, with each other, and with themselves. We all carry scars from our service, and spending time outdoors—sharing stories, watching the sunrise, and celebrating small victories—helps remind us that healing doesn’t always happen in a clinic. Sometimes, it happens knee-deep in the cattails beside someone who understands.
Jack and David were outstanding guys—humble, funny, and down-to-earth. It was an absolute honor to share the blind with them, and we hope to see them back in Wisconsin for future hunts.
Mission2Thrive’s Great Outdoors Path continues to grow because of veterans like these—men and women who show that while the battles may be behind us, the mission of finding purpose and brotherhood carries on.
