My grandfather left me an eighty-acre farm in Elk Mound, Wisconsin, where he had welcomed military veterans to hunt for free. I promised to continue his tradition. However, my ex-husband, Brad, secretly charged three hunters $4,000 annually, collecting $12,000 over three years. He even forged my signature on a hunting lease despite my warnings and posted no-trespassing signs.
Determined to protect my grandfather’s legacy, I invited three Army veterans, Dale, Tim, and Wes, to hunt without charge. They repaired the old deer stands and restored the grounds. On opening morning, I joined them wearing Grandpa’s canvas coat. Shortly after sunrise, Brad’s paying hunters arrived, believing they had exclusive access.
One hunter, Kurt, presented the forged lease. After noticing Dale’s military patch, he discovered they were fellow veterans. Kurt explained that Brad had collected their money for three seasons. I contacted my attorney and preserved the document. Authorities investigated, cited Brad for trespassing, and referred the matter for legal review. Brad eventually sold his bass boat, repaid $12,000, and apologized.
The following season, Kurt asked to return, and I welcomed him without payment. That November, I recorded the veterans’ names in Grandpa’s green ledger. Brad had tried to profit from our family property, but my grandfather’s greatest gift was teaching me the value of generosity.