At the heart of the Armed Forces Initiative (AFI) is the belief that service doesn’t stop when the uniform comes off—it simply evolves. Our mission to help veterans and active-duty military members find a new calling in conservation is only made possible by the incredible dedication of our volunteer leaders. Today, we pause to recognize one such leader whose thoughtful words, quiet contributions, and passion for storytelling have left a lasting imprint on our community.
After years of steadfast involvement, Dalton Wayne Hoover has announced his decision to step down from the AFI Board. Balancing the demands of graduate school, work, and family—a triad many of us know all too well—Dalton has made the difficult but admirable choice to step back and focus on his next chapter.
“Thank you for the opportunity to grow in an engaging environment and participate in the very special community you have all created in the Armed Forces Initiative,” Dalton shared in his farewell message. “I will gladly look over anything you send me. Hope to see you all at an event soon.”
Dalton’s fingerprints are found in every paragraph he reviewed and every sentence he refined for AFI. His contributions helped shape the voice of a program that teaches veterans and service members not just how to hunt, fish, and advocate for public lands—but why these skills and values matter. In a world saturated with noise, Dalton helped us say what we mean and mean what we say.
While he may be stepping away from formal board duties, Dalton remains a part of this tribe. He’s left behind a clear turnover plan, is assisting with transition support, and continues to offer his expertise in writing and editing for future AFI campaigns and stories. That’s the mark of a true public land steward and warrior in conservation.
To Dalton: Thank you for serving this community with the same integrity and dedication that brought you to it. Your voice will echo in every story we tell.
We'll leave the campfire burning—see you out there.
The Armed Forces Initiative introduces the military community and their families to North America’s wild public lands and waters, offering a new mission of conservation that builds mental, spiritual, and emotional well‑being while honing hunting and fishing skills. Learn how you can find your new mission—join an event, volunteer, or lend your support—by visiting the Armed Forces Initiative page.
About Garrett Robinson
Born and raised in southern York County, Pennsylvania, I participated in hunting in fishing throughout the state with my family on both public and private land. To this day the memories of growing up in a family where everyone hunted are some of the best