The Savalan Buck
Tribute to a Grandfather
As told by Austin Harriger
Opening morning of the 2023 New York gun opener I climbed into an old homemade wooden tree stand, closed my eyes and just simply said “look out for me today Grandpa…”
The night before, I sat with my father at the kitchen table and talked about how tomorrow was going to be the first opening day ever that we’d hunt without Grandpa George. It’s a somber conversation that many sportsmen have had and one that we all eventually will have regarding our hunting companions.
I made the decision that I was going to sport all of grandpas old gear. I carried an old 30-30 with iron sights that he gave to me as a younger man. My attire was one that defined so many older sportsmen - A sun faded camo cap, a heavy red checkered Woolrich jacket, a thin pair of dickies pants, and rubber boots. Far from what I usually wear entering the woods.
I opened my eyes after saying my best version of a hunters prayer and settled into the seat, rifle in hand, daylight barely peaking over the hilltop. At exactly 7:00 AM I heard leaves crunching over my left shoulder, I slowly turned my head and immediately began preparing as I saw the deer approaching.
The buck was a good one. I slowly pulled up, clicked the cold steel hammer back, and waited for my opportunity. He continued walking directly to me and at less than 20 yards, I took my shot. The 8 point buck dropped in his tracks instantly - a perfect hit.
I called my dad as soon as I could catch my breath and thoughts… Writing this now I have no idea what I said to him… But it probably was a combination of disbelief and excitement. The last thing I remember in that old wooden stand is saying, “Thank you Grandpa…” with a small tear in my eye.
The rest of the story is nothing out of the ordinary. My dad came to my aid and helped me retrieve the buck back to the barn. We hung it up, took photos, reminisced, and went back to the house for lunch… But what really capped off the morning was watching a young male crimson red cardinal land on a pine bow just outside the window as we ate. “There’s Grandpa…”
RIP Savalan “George” Harriger
09/07/1933 - 01/06/2023
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