It’s Never Too Late to Say Thank You
Hunting at Börringe with the Swedish Veterans Federation.
There are many ways to say thank you. At Börringe Kloster, just outside Malmö in southern Sweden, estate owner Sten Ericson has found his own way – by inviting Swedish veterans to a day of hunting on his land.
In cooperation with Aimpoint, he has for the past six years hosted this annual event, offering members of the Swedish Veterans Federation (Sveriges Veteranförbund) the opportunity to enjoy hunting, camaraderie, and a warm welcome in the heart of the Skåne countryside.
“I think we are generally quite poor at taking care of our veterans in Sweden. For me, this is something very positive, and the reward is great compared to the small effort it requires,” says Sten Ericson, CEO of Börringe Kloster AB.
Among the visitors at this year’s hunt was Mats Fogelmark, Veterans Affairs Officer at the Swedish Armed Forces. He did not take part in the actual hunt but came to meet the participants and show his appreciation for the initiative. He describes it as an excellent example of how civilian actors can contribute to supporting Swedish soldiers who take on international missions.
“It’s never too late to say thank you,” he says.
There are currently around 53,000 veterans in Sweden, of whom approximately 6,000 are members of the Swedish Veterans Federation. One of the federation’s sections focuses on hunting.
“It’s a very social activity, and we arrange different hunts under friendly conditions where we meet and spend time together. This particular hunt is special – not many have access to this type of hunting,” says Vidar Gothenby, who together with Sonny Emanuelsson organizes the event on behalf of the federation.
Both agree that attitudes toward veterans are gradually changing, though there is still a clear difference between Sweden and many other countries.
“In the United States, for example, it looks completely different. Veterans receive many benefits and enjoy a much higher status,” says Sonny Emanuelsson.
“I think there’s a lack of understanding here at home about what international service actually entails. But we’re grateful for this event, and we feel very well taken care of,” adds Vidar Gothenby.
The hunting experience in Skåne began with a full day of training. Participants started at the shooting range, where they mounted the Aimpoint® Acro® S-2 on their shotguns and received detailed instruction from Aimpoint’s Training Manager, Fredrik Jacobsson.
“I know you’re used to shooting carbines with a red dot sight, but shotguns are different. You can’t aim the red dot at the target – you have to swing through and keep following.”
Simple in theory, perhaps, but the only real way to learn is by doing. The morning was therefore spent refining swing and technique on clay pigeons. All participants were hunters, though not all were experienced shotgun shooters – and shooting with a red dot on a shotgun was a new experience for most.
“You can tell it takes some practice,” says Peter Lilja from Halmstad after his first attempts.
The Swedish Veterans Federation consists of 26 regional associations across the country. Its activities are funded through membership fees, donations, fundraising, and government support. In addition to its local chapters, the federation also runs several special interest sections, including hunting, golf, and a women’s group.
For Peter Lilja, his time in international service is something he looks back on with pride.
“It’s something I’m proud of – a period I can think back on with joy,” he says.
The first day concluded with a guided tour and company presentation at Aimpoint’s headquarters in Malmö, followed by a pleasant dinner and plenty of time for conversation and sharing experiences. The stories flowed easily – from military bases to hunting grounds.
The next morning, hunters and dog handlers set out across the fields surrounding Börringe. With the sun rising behind them and the November dew still heavy on the grass, shooters took their positions around the first pond of the day. It was time to move from practice to live action.
“This is something completely different from what I usually hunt. I’m used to small-scale farm hunting back home in Västergötland,” says Jonas Andén from Ulricehamn.
When the horn sounded to start the drive, participant Martin Palm saw several ducks pass by just out of range. Knowing when not to shoot is just as important as hitting when you do. Eventually, he managed to take a few shots.
“I got one at least – most were too far away,” he says.
As the dogs retrieved the fallen birds, the shooters regrouped for the next drive. Moving ten shooters, gamekeepers, and dog handlers with their Labradors takes a little time. The dog-handling team consisted of eleven regular handlers, joined by seven additional teams who came to learn and observe.
“This is a tryout day for them. It’s important for us to bring in new, younger people,” says Ann-Kristin Nilsson, who was in charge of the dog handlers.
During the day, the veterans got to hunt in several locations. Everyone enjoyed success – and, above all, two memorable days in the crisp autumn air of southern Sweden.
“This event was a great success, and I’m happy that Aimpoint can do this for the Veterans Federation. It means a lot for us to be able to give something back to those who have served our country,” says Fredrik Jacobsson.
Facts: The Swedish Veterans Federation (SVF)
• Founded: 1984
• Members: Approximately 6,000 in 26 regional associations and 50 meeting places
• Mission: To provide fellowship, education, and social support for Swedish veterans and their families
• Activities: Comradeship support, training, social gatherings, and fundraising for the Yellow Ribbon campaign
• Sections: Hunting, golf, culture, international affairs, and women’s group
• Core values: Comradeship – Care – Humanity
• More information: sverigesveteranforbund.se
