SSG Birdwell Memorial Patch

“All gave some; some gave all.”

We are deeply honored to have the privilege of associating the name of SSG Christopher James Birdwell (1987-2012) with this event. His legacy of bravery and selflessness serves as an inspiration to us all, and we are proud to pay tribute to his memory in this way.

SSG Birdwell is a local hero who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to his country on August 27, 2012, in Kalagush, Afghanistan. He was killed in action by injuries suffered from enemy small-arms fire. Christopher was assigned to 4STB, 4BCT, and 4ID, Fort Carson, Colorado. 

Click here to read the full bio of SSG Birdwell.

Honker Down is an epic two-day waterfowl hunt for military and first responders held each January. The event holds the distinct honor of bearing the name of SSG Christopher Birdwell, US Army, a Windsor native who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to his country on August 27, 2012 in Kalagush, Afghanistan.

The weekend kicks off on Friday with our Honker Down Reception which pays tribute to our participants. On Saturday and Sunday they will hunt waterfowl along the Front Range, but more importantly, they’ll encounter the camaraderie and brotherhood that so many of them miss after their service time concludes.

Honker Down is one of two major fundraisers held by Hero Expeditions each year. The money raised at this event funds about 40% of our annual programming! We hope that you will find a sponsorship level that fits your ability and desire to give back on the following page. Our team is also willing to sit down and develop a unique sponsorship package with you or explore additional ways that you can get involved.

Honker Down Sponsorships are now open!

Please click to download our 2025 Honker Down Sponsorship Packet or to register your 2025 Honker Down Sponsorship below. Once you have registered your sponsorship, please scroll to the bottom of this page for our payment options. Thank you for your support of our cause!

Honker Down Reception Dinner 2025

Island Grove Events Center Ballroom

421 N. 15th Avenue in Greeley, CO

January 10, 2025 – Social Hour at 5:15 – Reception at 6:30

Each attendee MUST have a ticket for admission, we will not be able to accept walk up entries due to limited available space.

Sponsorship Payment

Sponsorship Payment Options

It is our preference to receive payments via check issued to Hero Expeditions when possible. If you prefer to pay via PayPal please use the button on this page. For Venmo, please scan our QR Code below. Thank you!

Checks should be mailed as follows: Hero Expeditions, Inc. at PO Box 734, Eaton, CO 80615.