A U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter landed on a private ranch in Montana in May 2025 to collect shed elk antlers, raising questions about the use of military resources for personal gain. Rancher Linda McMullen received a call from a neighbor who witnessed the event. "Linda, there's a green Army helicopter landed on your place, picking up elk antlers," McMullen recounted to The New York Times. "I said, 'Are you joking?' He said, 'I'm looking at them with binoculars.'"

The incident occurred on McMullen's property near the Crazy Mountains, an area known for its abundant elk population and where collecting shed antlers is a common activity. Shed antlers, naturally dropped by elk each year, are often sought after for their value, though typically only worth a few hundred dollars. The local sheriff confirmed the unusual nature of the event. "This was the first helicopter I've heard of regarding shed antler collection," he stated, indicating the rarity of such a method.

The use of a Black Hawk helicopter, a sophisticated and expensive piece of military equipment, for such a purpose prompted scrutiny. The Adjutant General for the Montana National Guard, J. Peter, was reportedly looking into the matter, though details of the investigation and its outcome remain unclear. The incident highlights the potential for misuse of government resources and raises ethical concerns about the involvement of military personnel in activities that appear to benefit individuals.

The situation also underscores the importance of accountability and oversight in the management of military assets. While the value of the antlers themselves may be relatively small, the cost of operating a Black Hawk helicopter is substantial, making the operation seem disproportionate and potentially wasteful. The incident serves as a reminder of the need for clear guidelines and strict adherence to regulations regarding the use of military equipment and personnel.