From the Test Site to the Hunt Test: Charlie and Betsy’s Story
A Life of Work and Service
I’m Charlie, and I grew up in Los Alamos, New Mexico. I was born there, went to high school there, and began working at Los Alamos National Laboratory while attending college. Starting in 1966, I spent three summers on a survey crew, performing mapping and measurement work for scientists and infrastructure projects such as roads and buildings.
In 1969, I took a position at the Nevada Test Site, working for Reynolds Electrical & Engineering Company (REECO), a contractor supporting underground nuclear testing. As a college student, I lived onsite in a small trailer in Mercury, Nevada, about 60 miles from Las Vegas, with three other workers. Conditions were tough, with temperatures regularly exceeding 100 degrees and no air conditioning.
Much of the work involved surveying and maintaining infrastructure. This included mapping road systems, drainage, and other outdoor projects essential to operations. Looking back, I see my role as supporting a larger mission.
“I was support,” I would say. “I helped the effort during the Cold War. A lot of what we did at Los Alamos was tied directly to national defense.”
A Four-Legged Furry Master Hunter
Cold War Patriot Betsy
In 2018, I was fortunate enough to come across an advertisement for a litter of puppies sired by a very famous dog, North Fork’s Big River is Rising, a member of the American Kennel Club (AKC) Retriever Hall of Fame. My wife and I traveled to Nashville, Tennessee, where we enjoyed a show at the Grand Ole Opry before bringing home a female puppy.
My goal during retirement was simple: develop an exceptional duck dog capable of competing in retriever hunt tests, both AKC and United Kennel Club (UKC).
That goal wasn’t new; it was rooted in a lifelong passion. I’ve owned nine dogs over the years and spent countless hours duck hunting. Along the way, I became familiar with both retriever field trials and hunt tests. Field trials determine a winner after a full day of competition, while hunt tests evaluate dogs against a set standard. Each dog must successfully complete realistic hunting scenarios at three levels: Junior, Senior, and Master.
From 2005 to 2020, I was heavily involved in hunt tests. I was not just a participant, but also a judge. Over the years, I evaluated around 1,500 dogs, gaining a strong understanding of bloodlines, training, and what makes a truly outstanding retriever.
A Remarkable Retriever
Betsy in Competition
After bringing the puppy home in May 2018, it became clear early on that she was something special. With official approval from Cold War Patriots (CWP), I named her Cold War Patriot Betsy, a name that often sparks conversation. Many people I meet at events recognize the connection and are curious to learn more, which helps bring awareness to the program and others who may qualify.
Betsy trained in California during her first year, earning both her AKC Junior Hunter and Senior Hunter titles. However, as I began handling her myself, my health started to decline, limiting my ability to travel and compete. That’s when I turned to Sonya Burr of Triple Quest Kennels in New Mexico.
Since then, Betsy’s accomplishments have been extraordinary. Under Sonya’s guidance, she has earned:
- UKC Hunting Retriever Champion (HRCH) title
Betsy in Competition
- AKC Master Hunter (MH) title
- 37 Master Hunter qualifying passes (and counting)
Most notably, Betsy earned a Master National Qualifying score in Giddings, Texas, in November 2025, an achievement that represents the highest level of success in hunt tests.
As of now, she continues to compete at an elite level and is even traveling for advanced events, including double Master tests, gaining experience for future Master National competitions. With continued success, I’m hopeful she will surpass 40 Master passes in the coming years.
Overcoming Challenges with Support
I am a breast cancer survivor and a former worker. Due to my exposure, I qualified under the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Program Act (EEOICPA). I became a Professional Case Management (PCM) client and Cold War Patriot member in late 2017, shortly after receiving approval from the Department of Energy, and I officially began receiving services in 2018.
At the time, there were few options, but PCM quickly proved to be the right choice. Their support has gone far beyond basic care.
They have helped me:
- Navigate complex healthcare regulations
- Develop and manage my home health care plan
- Coordinate with doctors and attend appointments
- Obtain essential equipment like an electric chair and walker
- Connect with trusted medical professionals
Charlie, CWP Betsy, and her Trainer Sonya Burr
One of those connections was Dr. Randy Soo Hoo, whom I met at a PCM event. He has since completed multiple impairment evaluations for me and continues to assist with my care. My wife has also played a vital role, serving as my Relative Personal Care Attendant for the past seven years.
PCM was especially helpful during my breast cancer diagnosis and radiation treatment, guiding me through each step of the process and ensuring I had the care and support I needed.
To learn how PCM can support you with your benefits and home health care needs, call 866.387.2123.
