SPRING VALLEY – Veterans often say that their military service helped shape them into the people they are today, which is evident in how rural Spring Valley resident Daniel Grosso runs his business, Broken Arrow Whitetails LLC.

“The military has been instrumental in shaping and strengthening my leadership, discipline, and sense of responsibility,” Grosso said. “Traits such as integrity, loyalty, commitment, and selfless service influence how I approach both my military career and our business. The Army’s focus on leadership and teamwork directly translates into how we manage our family farm — every role matters, and success depends on consistency, accountability, and trust.”

Grosso and wife Megan officially licensed Broken Arrow Whitetails LLC in 2023 and began operations in 2024 after receiving their first livestock that winter. They specialize in breeding and raising healthy, northern typical whitetail deer. Their mission is to breed high-quality, typical whitetails with CWD-resistant genomes. They are committed to producing a strong, healthy genetic line of large-bodied, typical whitetails that ensures strength, resilience and sustainability, Grosso said.

“We have started small as to not overwhelm ourselves and learn the essential skills necessary to be successful in this business,” Grosso said. “We currently offer whitetail deer for breeding and to outfitters, with the hopes of further expansion into scent production in the future. Our goal is to promote responsible cervid management while advancing the genetics of our whitetail herd, educating people on what cervid farming does and provide insight to anyone that may be interested in the business.”

Both Grosso and his wife manage the business and animal husbandry aspects together. Their four children (ages 6, 4, 2, and 1) enjoy bottle-feeding newborns, so everyone gets involved.

“My passion for the outdoors and whitetail deer hunting initially inspired this journey,” Grosso said. “As I learned more about the deer industry and its role in conservation, education and genetics, that passion evolved into a family-run farm/business.”

Grosso was born and raised in Watersmeet, Mich., a small town in the western Upper Peninsula. He graduated from Watersmeet High School in 2005 and later earned his Bachelor of Science degree from Northern Michigan University in 2012.

At the time he joined the military, he was unsure about his future career direction. Going into his final semester of college, he took his brother’s advice (a member of the Wisconsin Army National Guard) and met with his recruiter. He joined the Wisconsin Army National Guard in 2010.

“Several family members had served before me, and each offered valuable guidance and insight that influenced my decision to enlist,” Grosso said. “I wanted to be part of something greater than myself, challenge myself and continue a family tradition of service and commitment to our country.”

Along with running his farm, Grosso is an Active Guard Reserve (AGR) Soldier with the Wisconsin Army National Guard. He currently serves as the Administrative Officer for the 1-128th Infantry Battalion based out of Eau Claire on the AGR side and holds the role of Executive Officer on the M-day (traditional drilling status) side.

“My duties include overseeing administrative operations, personnel readiness, and supporting the leadership and Soldiers of the 1-128 IN Battalion,” Grosso said. “I was deployed to Afghanistan from 2019 to 2020 as the company commander for Delta Company 1-128 IN in support of Operation Freedoms Sentinel. I originally enlisted in 2010 and later commissioned as an officer in 2013 through the Accelerated Officer Candidate School (OCS) program. I currently hold the rank of Major.”

Grosso encourages anyone considering military service to approach it with an open mind and commitment to growth. He recommends attended one of several open armory/military community events held to allow initial introduction to what can be offered, and showcasing local military armories.

“The military builds a foundation of leadership, discipline, and teamwork that lasts a lifetime. It also provides incredible opportunities — from education benefits to healthcare — and develops character traits like dedication, perseverance, and selfless service that are invaluable in any career or aspect of life,” Grosso said. “Serving in the military has provided me with opportunities and experiences that have shaped every part of who I am, as a husband, father, and small business owner. It’s given me great pride to serve our nation and the Soldiers beside me. The values and lessons I’ve gained through service continue to guide how I live, work, and lead both in uniform and at home.”

To learn more about Broken Arrow Whitetails LLC, follow their Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BQsRzuKJv/