May 31- June 1
For the 131st Silver Spurs rodeo, I was so honored to be asked to carry the American Flag in uniform and ride with the “Horses and Heroes Drill Team” for the opening ceremonies! The drill team is an assembly of veterans who participate in group therapy at Heavenly Hoofs Therapeutic Riding Center in Kissimmee. The program is designed for veterans that were wounded in combat or suffer from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.
When I had the chance to meet the veterans I would be riding with at rehearsal Thursday afternoon before the rodeo started, I was in awe. These gentlemen were truly an inspiration to me and I couldn't have felt more proud to ride beside them. Each had a unique background telling how they got to where they are today. Some of the soldiers suffered from physical wounds like leg amputations and traumatic brain injuries, and others suffered from emotional wounds like post traumatic stress disorder and depression. It was so interesting to visit with each of them and hear about their stories through out their service, but what I enjoyed listening to the most is how much happiness and healing horses have brought to their lives!
When Friday night finally arrived, I could feel the excitement in the
air from the other veterans who were mounted up and all in a line
behind me, ready for the ceremony to begin. As I stepped into the
Silver Spurs arena on top of a beautiful palomino horse carrying Old
Glory, the crowd sprang to their feet. As the 6 veterans trailed in
behind me, they went wild with enthusiasm! The veterans trotted around me in a circle in the center of the arena, then stopped facing the crowd for their introductions. When Tim Fuller announced their names and service, not one person could be seen with a dry eye. My heart swole with pride as I tried to fight back tears of my own. Looking into each of their eyes as they raised their hands for recognition, I could tell how grateful they were to be a part of this moment. One veteran told me before we went in, that he had never been recognized for his service - not once. I was just so happy that that he had this opportunity, I knew it meant the world to him.
I was also glad that my parents were able to attend this rodeo with me. Every time they come visit, they stay a little longer! This trip was about 14 days - but we had a great time and keep finding more and more new & interesting things to do! I am just waiting for the day when they make the big move! It's hard to keep dad away from the beach
Check out my videoblog below where I talked with one of the vets - This gentleman was riding with one leg - how impressive!
Running Time in a Car: 215h
Running Mileage: 13,881
Running TV Interviews: 7
Running Mileage: 13,881
Running TV Interviews: 7
Running Radio Spots: 2
Running School Visits: 4
I teared up just reading your blog, I can imagine how much it must have affected people who were there.
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