HORSES FOR HEROES New Mexico - Cowboy Up! 505-798-2535

American Cowboy - February's Issue

2012-01-18T14:44:00.000-08:00

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Rick Iannucci and our Horses For Heroes, New Mexico, Inc. Cowboy Up! program is featured in American Cowboy's February 2012 issue. I took the liberty of replacing the photo that they mistakenly printed in the article along with correcting typos in our name.

Plans for Team Room/Bunkhouse Underway

2012-01-10T20:41:00.000-08:00

Through the generosity of Double H Boots, The Miller Family Foundation and all the great folks who participated in our 2011 Cowboy Christmas Dinner Dance & Auction, as well as countless friends who have supported us across the miles thanks to Sirius XM Patriot Radio Host Andrew Wilkow of Wilkow Majority, we are proud to announce plans for our desperately needed Team Room/Bunkhouse are well underway.

Santa Fe Architect William Agnew generously lending his expertise to make this project a reality.

Rick Iannucci and William Agnew pace off the site in anticipation of general contractor Doug Langley breaking ground.

Cowboy Christmas 2011

2011-12-30T11:16:00.001-08:00

A sold out crowd in their cowboy finery was on hand for this year's Cowboy Christmas. The Hilton Santa Fe Plaza was the setting for our guests who came from throughout the state and from across the country. Cowboy hats outnumbered neckties for a crowd that was anticipating a good time on a crisp winter night. What a better way to start off the Christmas season!

The silent auction had some amazing bargains.

Old friends and big hugs were plentiful.

Singleton's San Cristobal Ranch manager Grant Mitchell and his wife Connie visit with Senator Larry Larranaga.

Governor Susana Martinez and her husband Chuck Franco enjoy the evening with our dinner sponsors from Double H Boots, Vice President Steve Vickers and President Greg Crouchley.

Governor Susana Martinez and her husband Chuck Franco with their table guests Gold Star parents Don and Jo Ann Zembiec.

Horses for Heroes - New Mexico, Inc. President Rick Iannucci addresses a full house!

NM Veteran Services Cabinet Secretary Col. Tim Hale provided our prayerful invocation and blessing.

Sgt. Erik Schei is surrounded by fellow veterans, staff and Program Partners as he is inducted as the newest member of The Order of the Purple Wildrag! (Working Ranch Magazine - Jan/Feb 2011)

Cowboy Up! director Nancy De Santis does the honors.

Erik Schei showing his appreciation in the finest cowboy tradition.

New Mexico's First Gentleman and our very own Cowboy Up! volunteer instructor Chuck Franco spoke about his experience working with our program then introduced his wife Governor Susana Martinez.

Governor Susana Martinez speaking about the Cowboy Code and the Warrior Code.

Governor Susana Martinez leads off with a live auction item painted and donated by her husband the First Gentleman, Chuck Franco, while auctioneer Lisa Vahkaria and Cowboy Up! Graduate Emily Ruch get ready.

The floor is a buzz as the live auction progresses with a magnificent framed piece by Santa Fe artist Thom Ross of Due West Gallery.

Sgt. Kristy LaFrance and her dog Stella look on while Rick Iannucci describes her generously donated tapestry.

Sirius XM Patriot Radio Newtwork host Andrew Wilkow (Wilkow Majority) spoke briefly about his experience with our veterans when he rode with us at the Crossed Arrows Ranch.

First Gentleman and our Governor dancing to the sounds of Joe West and Friends.

Cowboy Up! program graduate and Navajo ranche, alroy Billiman and Darilyn Jackson.

Ricardo Cate of "Without Reservations" fame hands over one of his original cartoons to actor Wes Studi.

Rancher Henry McKinley and his wife Peg chat with NM Livestock Board Executive Director Myles Culbertson, Carl Hawkins of Hawkins Chuckwagon Fame, and Sylvia Wright.

Governor Martinez posing with our most helpful volunteers Tom, Channing, Kennedy and Lisa.

Joe West and Friends rocking out!

Maura Studi and our Cowboy Up! volunteer Wes Studi sits in with the band on bass.

Large animal veterinarian Larry Nolan visits with Bonanza Creek Ranch manager Steve Price and owner Richard Hughes.

The gangs all here! NM Cattlegrowers Association Executive Director Caren Cowen with Charletta Larranaga, Senator Larry Larranaga, Nancy De Santis, Rick Iannucci, Farm Bureau's Matt Rush, Janelle Duffy, NM Cattlegrowers past Preident Bert Ancell, Debbie Ancell and Myles Culbertson.

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-25T07:16:00.000-08:00

Monday Session With Sgt. Erik Schei

2011-11-28T20:05:00.000-08:00

What a fabulous session! Back to work after the Compadres Team renovated their arena - look at the mirrors! Now riders can see themselves and correct their posture while riding. Erik really enjoys being able to see himself riding Rio! After his session Erik was awarded achievement award presented to him by stellar instructor Georgia Smith. It takes both the Las Companas Compadres Team as well as our own Horses For Heroes - NM Cowboy Up! Team to make Erik's riding experience possible, we are so grateful for our partnership, thank you all!

Our First Air Force participant and Stella's Graduation

2011-11-20T16:57:00.001-08:00

November 16th

Our first Airman arrived this fall via the UNM Veterans Group. Matt Moody is seen here working just as hard on his horsemanship as he is on his MBA. Matt is a welcome addition to our Cowboy Up! program.
Seen below riding with fellow veteran Chris Chaisson and then sharing a relaxing cup of coffee with Sgt. Brandi.

November 18th

On the evening of the 18th Rick and I went down to see our very own Kristy LaFrance and Stella graduate from the Paws & Stripes program along with Army's Wounded Warrior Advocate Christin Barden - well done ladies! It is amazing to see Stella all grown up and taking care of her momma!

Veteran's Day ~ November 11th, 2011

2011-11-12T15:11:00.001-08:00

Yesterday we woke up to a beautiful morning then straight down to Albuquerque to meet some of UNM's veteran student population in honor of Veteran's Day. Thank you ladies and gentlemen for your service to our Country.

We a chance to visit with new friends and old friends - it was nice meeting you all and we look forward to working with you!

A special visit from Cowboy Up! participant Kristy LaFrance and her service dog Stella... Stella, you are all grown up! Your work with "Paws and Stripes" has paid off and we look forward to your graduation next week!!!

Sunrise

Our display

Former Navy Corpsman Joseph Boyd, Student Veterans of UNM President with US Marine battle buddy and fellow UNM student Paul Duran explaining to Horses For Heroes - NM, Inc. President, Rick Iannucci, how they how they chewed the same sand together serving with the US Marines 1/5 in Iraq.

Kristy LaFrance and Stella.

Stella in her new duds!

Chuckwagon Cowbelles November Luncheon

2011-11-12T13:56:00.001-08:00

November 8th, 2011

We were honored to be the guest speakers for the Chuckwagon Cowbelles November meeting. A lively interactive discussion of how our Cowboy Up! program is restructuring the skill-sets of combat wounded/PTSD veterans using horsemanship, cattle and ranch activities.

A homemade potluck lunch followed our talk and we were privileged to be part of the remainder of their meeting. We are humbled by their pledge of support and the endorsement of these fine women ranchers. Thank you ladies!

Babbi Baker's ranch in Estancia.

Following the Pledge of Allegiance and the Cowbelle creed the ladies got straight to matters at hand.

Laughs, and more laughs...!

Till next time ladies, thank you!

American Gold Star Mothers Dinner

2011-11-12T08:18:00.001-08:00

November 7th, 2011

The American Gold Star Mothers is a national organization consisting of mothers who have lost a son or daughter in the service of our country. Our hearts go out to all the mothers and fathers, we are sorry for your loss and please know that these Heroes will never be forgotten.

Horses for Heroes - NM, Inc. President Rick Iannucci was the keynote speaker. He pledged that all of New Mexico American Gold Star Mothers who would like their Warrior's remembered will be placed on a wall plaque beneath a Gold Star in our future bunkhouse/team-room.

No words can express our gratitude for all the hard work that went into putting together such a lovely dinner for our organization. Thank you all for your generosity and kind hearts! And thank you to all who attended the dinner for our benefit.

Hard at work! Barb McCormick & Shelia Dotson

El Pinto Garden Room

Silent Auction

Live Auction

Entertainment provided by "Sons of the Rio Grand". Please visit their website at: www.sonsoftheriogrande.com

Good Conversation

American Gold Star Mothers of Albuquerque, NM: Left to right
Mary Cowan. Son: Army CW3 Aaron William Cowan DOD 2/26/05
Jo Ann Zembiec. Son: Marine Maj. Douglas A. Zembiec, DOD 5/11/07
Becky Christmas. Son: Army Capt. Todd T. Christmas, DOD 11/29/04
Kay Coleman. Son: Marine Sgt. Stephen M Carpenter DOD 7/31/06
Pat Merville. Son: Army Spec Christopher A. Merville, DOD 10/12/04
Michelle Bowman. S.son was Army Spc. Brian Bowman, DOD 1/3/10 (Medic)
Ladies, our hearts are with you ~ God Bless.

Helping MC, Brad Christmas, with the live auction is our own SGT. C. Tidwell (US Army, Ret.) and MSGT. Joe Snyder (USAF).

Native American Symposium

2011-11-04T18:19:00.001-07:00

Spoke to some wonderful people at the Native American Symposium, thanks for stopping by.

A big thank you to Cowboy Up! staff member, Avery Strickland for helping us Meet an' Greet ~ your help is always appreciated!!!

As always it is wonderful to see Cabinet Secretary of NM Veteran's Affairs, Tim Hale ~ great speech Tim & it's always so nice to visit with AJ Calabaza, Veteran's Coordinator of Santa Domingo.

Sedillo Cattle Association Sale

2011-10-30T20:23:00.001-07:00

This weekend was the Sedillo Cattle Sale where we gathered sorted and shipped. We had all worked together during their Labor Day Weekend cattle working so it sure was nice to be with them again. Everyone was so gracious and happy to see us, and of course the feeling is mutual! Please enjoy the pictures.

Heading out to gather...

Got the first batch...

Heading out to the another pasture...

Gathering...

Rounding them up!

Time to sort!

"Gentle handlers, gentle cattle." ~ Christine O'Byrne

October 29th, 2011

Again we start the day with with a short meeting to divvy responsibilities led by the President and Vice President of the Sedillo Cattle Company. The meeting opens with prayer honoring the animals and blessing another days work, as well as giving our gratitude and asking for a safe day of work among all. Having just gotten into town from his busy schedule, First Gentleman Chuck Franco was sure not to miss the second day of working where he helped to sort, and identify the 27 different brands of the association's co-op.

Sedillo Cattle Association President Stuart Romero and Jameson Ray, Vice President.

The calves are sorted by two and three into the alley...

...where they are identified, and logged...

...led onto the scale...

...weighed and recorded... smooth!

Chuck studying up on the 27 brands and identification marks!

More sorting...

This captures the essence of Laguna life. It was obvious from the beginning back at the branding in September and now the sale that prayer and tradition are foremost in the Laguna peoples lives. It is good to see everyone join together with such a sense of gratitude especially in this day and age. We are honored to have been part of it.

PRAYER...CUSTOM...TRADITION.

Feast...

...Good Eats...

...and FUN!

Back to work...shipping time.

As John says, "Thank you and safe Journey!"

Sortin' and Cullin'

2011-10-25T12:07:00.000-07:00

Spent the weekend sortin' and cullin' For those of you who do not know, culling is the process of removing animals from a group based on specific criteria. Due to our drought here in New Mexico it is necessary to decrease some herds so that there is plenty of grass left for the momma's who are pregnant - it's pasture and herd management. These particular culls are going to buyer out of state who is increasing his herd.

October 22, 2011

October 23rd, 2011

Everyday is a training day...

It's important to keep younger horses well rounded so today Rick worked Stiltz taking him along for tha gather and working him in the corral around the cows tuning his skills.

Loading and going to greener pastures.

Seen here Rick is desensitizing Stiltz to the shipping truck.

Birdseye's View

2011-10-21T11:44:00.001-07:00

In between riding and ranch chores there was a lot of our normal Cowboy Philosophy and conversation. SFC Victor Birdseye did a good job recording this journey texting his friends and family and he has allowed me to import his journey here, so with my pictures and in his words, here we go! Thank you Victor. Just before we start though, I'd like to give a quick shout out of thanks to his wife Sabrina, for it takes a strong woman with an open heart to stick by a man who comes back from warzone. You have taken the time to understand and give your support during what can be a difficult transition for many. May God continue to bless you both. Both Rick and I look forward to meeting you.

Wednesday, October 12, 2011 ~ 6:11 am

"Day Two, Horsesforheroes.org, New Mexico, its like the landscape begs you to leave your problems, and release them to be swept into the sage and cacti, for you soul to be uplifted on the wings of hawks and carried away. In the morning before the sun rises crazy dog and fat dog meet you all smiles and wagging tails wanting a pat on the head and a good belly scratch. We know that soldiers and cowboys followed only by fishermen are famous for tall tales, but when veterans come together over horses their souls are bared and they share the horrors that haunt their sleep, and the desert swallows them up. Its now apparent why Native Americans and Christ would wander into the desert in search of guidance, a man becomes lost in the serenity and finds himself cleansed and pure on the way out. Four soldiers said the same thing yesterday, over horses so you know its true, we need to change the therapeutic environment, get out of the clinics and back to the basics of living, strip away the bullshit and quit trying to be Joneses."

2:25 pm
"Ride until lunch, progressed a long ways."

4:46 pm
"More riding, more stall mucking, I even have blisters hand got soft, like my body and mind, the amount of concentration involved with cowboy therapy sharpens the mind, physical labor hardens the body a combination of the two cleanses the spirit, causing the veteran to become a whole person. He has no time to dwell on the PTSD and the brain is doing so many things at once it is forced to rewire and the disconnects to reattach."

Thursday, October 13 at 7:08 am

"Day three, woke up tired and had to fight the "z" monster to get out of bed. Have the soreness that people pay to get at the gym, that good soul healing pain that comes from getting up early working all day and going to be early. Coffee and sunrises for breakfast, and of course crazy dog are a great way to spend the morning. Crisp and cool the drought drags on. However where there is water things grow. Cowboying and farm / ranch work are the water that grows the spirit. Bite your lip and Cowboy up, pain is temporary and pride is forever. The army tries hard and is successful at taking the knowhow out of young men and teaching them the ways of war, but those that want to set it aside and return to their roots, there's a way, horsesforheros.org. in the words of a well known comedian "git r done" your family and friends need it, your life
depends on it."

8:24 am
"Out west..... long on conversation and the coffee is always on."

Friday, October 14 at 6:46 am

"Day four and I didn't do anything yesterday, well thats not true, Steve and I fed (cattle) over several hundred acres, barley from the local brewing company. We went and found bully, my first New Mexico cowboy job, Steve, Joe and I it was a beautiful ride across the desert with lots of clean air, and time for reflection and releasing all the bad crap out into the desert. Its like stepping back in time about a thousand years, stresses where different then. By the time all that was done it was dinner time, load the broken truck, and pick up feed. Now day four starts cool clear and promising, and the first thing we are going to do is pick up feed."

8:00 am
"The military in all its wisdom developed a routine for soldiers as a technique of dealing with hardship, the ranch lifestyle provides the same kind of routine that goes one step further for it makes the soldier take care of something bigger then himself, by taking care of animals that are completely reliant on him."

9:30 am
"Every issue can be solved in a pick up truck, if not there on the back of a horse just ask Rusty."

9:41 am
"This is exactly what horsesforheroes.org is about, veterans helping veterans using equestrian, ranch style structure and changing the therapeutic environment."

3:33 pm
"Still day four, fed this morning and did some cowboy philosophying in a truck, then went and rode and there is nothing more therapeutic then the ahha moment on the back of a horse, when everything comes together."

4:41 pm
"Something about being on a horse in the great outdoors just opens you up. By changing the therapeutic environment we have the ability to put soldiers in an environment that they are most comfortable with. A soldier at ease within himself has the ability to comprehend just how small a speck he is in the universe. Providing him with a comfortable, structured environment that he or she is at ease with gives him the ability to release the stuff he is holding inside. Twice now I have been working in the arena and tears were streaming down my face as I get it and learn horsemanship and through the concentration required to handle the animal with just my body let go of a little more bull crap. Its similar to getting in a hot tub and letting the stress go something veterans have a hard time with. The Cowboy Up! program gives motivated and dedicated veterans the tools they need to accomplish this seemingly impossible mission."

Saturday, October 15 8:41 am

"Day five, went and saw the aspens last night beautiful gold colors in the sun set. Then went to a Santa Fe Western gallery and listened to some artists and very knowledgeable folks talk on Wyat Earp a true American Hero the aniversery of the OK corral is on the 26 of Oct. Hauled feed last night so getting up was hard, its sure not from lack of sleep. Being out doors working all day wears a body out, and this is what our veterans need a positive outlet that exhausts them."

12:33 pm
"Round up prep, puts some butterfly's in your stomach, similar to combat mission prep. You know the men to your left and right are going to rely on your actions and know how. Your calmness and presence of mind will effect the whole outcome of the mission. Its a different mission with a different outcome, with its own dangers and pitfalls, with its own satisfaction and a peacefulness and accomplishment when the day is over. Its something veterans can wrap their mind around and leave the crap among the cacti, with a sense of purpose and accomplishment."

12:44 pm
"Round up prep, with the pre combat inspections and equipment prep invokes the same feelings a veteran experiences prepping for a combat operation. However by experiencing those feelings and then going into a non hostile environment the veteran is building tools to help him reintegrate into civilian life."

12:48 pm
"Nervous with sweaty palms, everyone has a job."

4:12 pm
"Coming off the range relaxed with a sense of accomplishment, cowboying is very similar to working in a squad everyman has a duty and position. Its these similarities that make the adjustment so versatile and simple for veterans suffering from PTSD. Once the adjustment is realized its easy to take the tools gleaned and apply them to transition."

Still Saturday the 15th, After the gather... Weighing and prep for shipping:

Sunday, October 16 at 7:56am

"Day six, early wake up, sleeping like a hot rock, every night. Loaded calves this morning to go to sale. There is so much to learn if you keep your mouth shut, some of the top cowboys and top cattlemen in the nation. Anyone interested in the ag business should come and spend a week or two. Its good for the mind and soul. I was even able to run a little this morning. Calves bawled all night and I never heard them, the only thing that would make it perfect is Sabrina Ridgeway, my beautiful wife and my flea bitten dogs."

8:05am
"www.horsesforheroes.org and the Cowboy Up! Program goes far beyond equestrian therapy, its about horsemanship and working cattle and raising grass, and carving out a living out of the desert. If Christ spent forty days in the desert, it would seem to me that this is the best possible rehabilitation for our soldiers suffering from PTSD. The program offers the opportunity for soldiers to be outside, working and putting their lives back together. Nothing like seeing the sun set and rise each day and working the hours in between, so that a body rests at night. Sleep is when the body heals."

8:10am
"Its an opportunity to realign you body and soul with natural surroundings and live like The Master Architect intended, one with your surroundings."

3:24pm
"Spent the morning sorting calves for the sale, rode this afternoon, lazy Sunday. Animals know when your having an anxiety issue, this is a reason veterans should work with animals as much as possible. Its possible for the veteran to cue their pending anxiety off of their animal and start putting safe guards in place before it becomes a full blown issue. This gives veterans a better quality of life. After all they have done for our country, don't they deserve it?"

4:07pm
"TBI therapy: take control of one of your senses, for instance in the airport or grocery store I wear my ipod it helps prevent sensory overload. Finding a natural rythym for grounding, such as that provided by horses, and the continual adjustment of the body and the horse helps the brain find new paths around the injured sections of the brain. Similar to driving a manual shift car, there is so much going on the brain does not have time to zone out and return to the injured nuropaths, its forced to work at all times, creating new path ways to function along."

October 17, 2011 1:31 pm

"The time goes by so fast, fed this morning and rode in the early afternoon going out to see the river. This place welcomes veterans in so they realize there are more then just them selves suffering from issues. It also makes them aware that there are people who really care and want to see them improve."

Tuesday at 9:05am October 18, 2011

"This morning met Steves father, who lived through the dust days of the thirty's he was barefoot and just a wee boy, there is nothing better then hearing the stories of an old man to humble you and make you thankful for all the conviences of today. Makes for a very relaxing day and I am thankful to be able to meet these people and hear all they have to say. What an opportunity for our troops to get in touch with them selves and get their feet grounded so they can get back in touch with life. This helps veterans reintegrate into a life that does not entail the military, I would like to see our troops have this great opportunity. I think that www.horsesforhereos.org is right on track giving our troops a therapeutic environment that involves the entire community outside the clinical environment."

Friday, October 21, 2011

This is Victor's last day and he will be working up to the last minute before flyin' outta here. Steve's busy loading calves to take to the sale in Belen (South of Albuquerque). Victor will get to help haul calves and see the sale all before boarding his plane this afternoon for Ft. Benning.

A Big Western thanks to Steve and Jacinda! You're wonderful neighbors and the best friends anyone could ever have!

Load her up!

Until next time... Via con Dios Ranger!

Army Ranger's First Day at the Ranch

2011-10-11T18:47:00.001-07:00

As you know outside of our one-bed guest room, we here at Horses For Heroes -NM, Inc. Cowboy Up! do not have a bunkhouse to accommodate out of town veterans who wish to participate in our program, something we are working very hard to change (please think of attending our Cowboy Christmas Fundraiser on December 9th, check our website for details).
So when US Army Ranger, SFC Victor Birdseye, contacted us from the The Warrior Transition Unit in Fort Benning, GA to be part of our Cowboy Up! program alongside one of his battle buddies, we approached our Program Partner and neighbor Steve Price and Richard & Imogene Hughes to see if they wouldn't mind a one-time loan of their bunkhouse to keep these fine men so they could come to NM to participate in our program.
Steve, Imogene and Richard so graciously agreed to allow the young men to bunk in for the 10 day stay. Many thanks, words cannot express our gratitude!

Rick went early Monday morning down to Albuquerque to pick up the soldiers, upon arrival of the plane, Rick was greeted by Victor only, as his battle buddy was unable to make the trip out.

Together we have ten days for some serious Cowboy Therapy!

Tuesday, October 11th, 2011

A quick safety check before mounting.

Some pole work sith St. Jack. Great centered position, Nice!

One-on-one instruction with cowboy volunteer Joe.

Some exercises in balance.

Matt, also Army, prepares Duke for a posting trot, nice departure!

Time for a well deserved break!

Busy September...

2011-09-25T15:31:00.001-07:00

From September 18th thru the 20th we had the editor of American Profile, Marta Aldrich and her husband Bill enjoy a stay; they even got to meet The First Gentleman, Chuck Franco, who, as you all know is a volunteer of ours.

Chuck took some time out of his busy schedule to spend with a few of our warriors. Not only can Chuck ride, but we found out he also paints! He has generously donated a signed sunset of his to be auctioned off during our Cowboy Christmas Dinner & Dance on December 9th,2011. Thanks Chuck!

September 19th

September 21st

Andrew Wilkow, of Wilkow Majority on Sirius XM Radio, interviews Rick live from Albuquerque!

Photo by Cris

Later that day...

We met John Popp, Executive Producer of NRA News, while down at the radio station with Andrew... Later that day John and his crew came by to interview one of our veterans Mark O'Byrne to see how our Cowboy Up! program has helped him.

September 22nd

Andrew Wilkow takes some time to come visit us and our Cowboy Up! program before heading back to the East Coast. After a quick bite of breakfast he got horseback and got a chance to ride along side a few of our veterans. Afterward, Andrew had the opportunity to sit and talk with Sgt. Andrew Brandi, author of the Warriors Guide to Insanity and his latest book, Warrior's Guide to Worlds At War.

September 23rd, Gold Star Mothers of New Mexico Visit

We were honored that The Gold Star Mother's of New Mexico came by for a visit to the ranch! For those of you who do not know, The Gold Star Mothers is an organization of mothers who have lost a son or daughter in the service of our country. Pat Mervil, the President has endorsed our program, and all together these wonderful Gold Star Mothers have so graciously organized a dinner at El Pinto Restaurant in Albuquerque on November 7th, 2011 from 6pm until 9pm benefitting our organization. You can participate by Calling or emailing Michelle Bowman, lels1958@aol.com 505-977-4417 or Kay Coleman, kayj@thuntek.net. Reserve early - Seating is limited. Thank you Pat, Jo Ann, and Kay ~ it was a great pleasure having you out!

Didn't take any time for President Pat Mervil to get horseback, You're our kind of gal Pat!

September 29th, Live from NYC

While we were back East for a short visit, we took the time out at Andrew Wilkow's request to come by SiriusXM Radio for another interview. Andrew, we just want to thank you for all your support! Words cannot express! A great big shout out to Ian and Michael too - you guys rock!!!

The Week in Review...

2011-09-18T20:15:00.000-07:00

Here are some of the days that I remembered my camera!

September 11th...

Three of our veterans shown here lending a hand to Henry McKinley to gather his cows to move them to another pasture.

Here is part of our bunch we have to move to the rest of the herd.

After a long morning of gathering Henry took us all for a bite to eat, I think seeing this helmet was appropriate for the day ~ "Remember September" ~ always...

September 12th...

Sgt. Erik Schei's first day riding Rio!

This photo I took of Rio waiting reminds me of this poem by Ronald Duncan:

Where in the wide world can man find
Nobility without pride,
Friendship without envy
Or Beauty without vanity?
Here, where grace is laced with muscle,
And Strength by gentleness confined.
He serves without servility,
He has fought without enmity. There is nothing so powerful,
Nothing less violent; there is nothing
So quick, nothing more patient.
All of our past has been borne on his back.
All our history is his industry,
We are his heirs, he our inheritance.
Ladies and Gentlemen –
The Horse.

~ This poem can also be found on our website's homepage

Good, good times!!!

Look at all the hands that help to get Erik horseback ~ Thank You All!!!

Georgia, showing Mark what the 'Hoist' feels like

September 15th...

Thursday's session.

September 16th...

On the prowl for stray cattle.

September 18th...

Everal sessions today followed by a superb lunch prepared by one of our own talented veterans ~ Thank You Stewart!

A well deserved stroll after some good arena time!

Back to work...!

Veterans helping veterans, that's what we do!

Mark after a long day calls it a night... Lakota style.

New home on the range for our cattle

2011-09-09T13:16:00.001-07:00

The scenic and very green Buell Park Ranch is the new home for our cattle. Cowboy Up! graduate and now staffer Alroy Billman calls this ranch on the Navajo Reservation in Arizona home. Alroy is the first participant in our "seedstock" program in which we provide 5 bred heifers and a bull to a Cowboy Up! graduate that has knowledge, motivation, desire and the land to carry on ranching traditions.
Alroy attended the NMSU Indian Livestock Days with us, held this year at the Laguna Pueblo and worked on designing the breeding program. In the next gestation cycle he will then ship us back 5 weaned calves for our veterans to train and learn how to work cattle on from March to October. They will then be returned to Buell Mountain where this sustainable cycle will begin again. We also welcome Alroy on our staff as a certified Native American Veterans Peer Counselor (and heck of a Cowboy!)

Labor Day Weekend at Laguna

2011-09-08T06:44:00.000-07:00

We were honored to be invited by John Romero and the Sedillo Cattle Association to participate in their fall working. Our days started early with feeding the horses well before dawn and hitting the highway toward Laguna. Upon our arrival we were warmly greeted by John and one by one each member of the association.

September 3rd Gather... Headin' out to gather the cattle on this 100,000 acre spread.
John Romero and Rick Iannucci heading out as dawn breaks over the mountain and we can tell the difference between a bush and a cow.

John rop'in... Nice catch!

Stuart Romero, President of the Sedillo Cattle Association with Rick Iannucci President of Horses for Heroes - NM, Inc.

Stuart, John and another member of Sedillo make sure which unbranded calves are with which momma cow. After roping that calf they call out the brand /owner to the branding crew who then get to work with their "running irons". This is real old school watching these "branding iron artists" at work.

Everyone in the association gets into the work in some way or another. From tending the fire where the irons are heating to mixing the vaccines everyone is there to "get 'er done!"

Cowboy Up! co-director Nancy De Santis mixes vaccines with the vaccination team.

Keepin' track and everything in order.

September 4th Gather...Bringing them in.
After gathering the cows they are moved into the corrals to pair back up. While they are settling and the irons are heating up the group forms a circle for a prayer in the Laguna language to honor and bless their working and for the safety of the people working and the livestock. Following that and before the teams are assigned we presented both John and Stuart with our Cowboy Up! trademark, usually presented to our graduates, and made them honorary members of the Order of the Purple Wild Rag. This was a special honor in many ways as John's father and Stuart's grandfather was in the army and received the Purple Heart during his service. It is indeed our honor to have them as our brothers.

Stuart being presented his Wild Rag by Cowboy Up! graduate, USMC Iraq veteran and Purple Heart recipient Sterling Bucholz while Rick Iannucci and John Romero look on.

John being presented with his Purple wild rag by Cowboy Up! graduate, US Army Iraq veteran and Purple Heart recipient Alroy Billman.

Joe Streaker Cowboy Up! crew member holds 'er down while he waits for the branding team.

John & Stuart have quite the job of having to recognize and identify all the brands of each Sedillo Cattle Assoiation member.

Sedillo Managment at it's finest.

John and Rick making sure she'll be "good for another year".

Our wonderful crew from Sedillo posing with Nancy on her Birthday! What a great way to spend your birthday Nancy!

Women Veteran's Retreat #2

2011-08-29T11:49:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was beautiful and calm, a perfect day for our 2nd Retreat for Women Veterans! Thank you ladies for taking the time to come as far as three hours just to be with us! We are so happy you made the commitment to yourselves to participate!

First and foremost, let me thank Judy Schneider of Healing Through Horses for leading us in our retreat, without Judy this type of retreat wouldn't be possible ~ Thank you Judy!

To my extraordinary horse handler helper, Jennifer, thank you for all your help and thank you for being you! A special thanks to our other helpers behind the scene too: To Horses For Heroes - NM, Inc. founder Rick Iannucci, and Cowboy Up! Graduate, Avery Strickland, thank you! Also to Cris and our house guest Michael, thanks for helping to pitch in too!

We started our day with introductions and lively conversation and then moved into the large arena where we got to know our four-legged coaches. All the horses were groomed and one even had his mane beautified! The horses responded to the ease everyone was feeling and were left to linger while we filled our tummies... Thank you to Chef Sara Bernstein and her beautiful daughter Shoshawnna for an outstanding lunch and dessert. The salad, cutlets and linguini you so lovingly prepared was quite a delight and we cannot thank you enough!

After our dessert of fresh berries and freshly made whipped cream we moved into the tee-pee for a sage cleansing - a beautiful ceremony performed by one of our very own participants, thank you Charrnessa! Thank you to Angela for discussing with us the importance of including the five senses when we go to our bag of self-soothing tools! And thank you ladies for all the wonderful guidance you shared with each other passing along what you yourselves have learned through your own experiences. That is golden.

May you carry the day in your hearts until next time.

Cheers to each and everyone of you!

A special admittance into the Order of the Purple Wildrag...

2011-08-15T15:43:00.001-07:00

We had a relaxing Monday morning out on the Bobcat pasture, we rode for a couple of hours saw some beautiful green grass, a rarity in Santa Fe, smelled the aroma of healthy pinon and took a peak at a breathtaking overlook. Emily didn't know it, but today was the day she would become our very first female veteran to graduate of the Cowboy Up! program. Yes, Emily has put in consistent sessions and the time she put in has paid off, not to mention her natural gift for horsemanship! Congratulations Emily we are so proud of you!

Because we graduate our participants doesn't mean that they are done and go off on their merry way, quite the opposite! Participants become assistant instructors. Our program is self sustaining in this way, our veterans have an opportunity to become instructors themselves and volunteer their time helping other veterans. It just works!

Our ceremony didn't end there... We also honored one of our talented volunteers as well... Joe has proven himself a dedicated volunteer. He's quite a horseman, well we saw that the first time he rode coupled with conversation of his experience! Joe helps keep our 4 legged instructors "legged up" , is a fine young man to boot and we are proud to have him with us as part of our family! Thank you Joe for all you do!!!

Good weekend Good friends!

2011-08-14T15:51:00.001-07:00

Our weekend began Thursday evening when we our friend's Tim and Christine O'Byrne's Marine son arrived. It was good to see Mark again, with newly grown beard and deep blue smiling eyes. We started early Friday morning with friend's and volunteers arriving early to suit the horses up for some cowplay in the arena. As work went on in the arena I worked with Emily, and new Cowboy Up! participant Matt. Emily was working on one of her final objectives to assist a fellow veteran - a job well done by both! From the looks of it Matt will be a fine rider, no doubt!

"Who let the cows out?"

Joe going through the trail course pulling the skid steer with Aztec as Rick, Mark and Norm look on.

Mark, Rick and Norm make a plan of action to get the cows...

Mark makes his move as the red heifer eyes him, looking for an escape!

Mark visits with fellow Marines Sgt. Brandi and Calvin Bockbrader. Oorah!

Duke looks good enough for the show ring with that stellar grooming job!

Tacking up, it's time to ride!

Nice job Matt, look at how comfortable Duke is, all his attention is on you!

Another Stellar Day!!!

2011-08-08T18:50:00.000-07:00

So nice to have a camera again, and it's even nicer to have a photographer on hand, thanks Chris!

We had a great day, well that's not unusual...!

We started out with a session here at the home of Horses for Heroes Cowboy Up! where we set up a working ranch horse trail course of sorts, and put our horses and riders to the test! After two of our instructors went through the course Emily rocked it, and made pulling the skid steer look easy! Awesome job Em!

Then we were off to meet Sgt. Erik Schei and his family and the Las Compadres Compadres team for our afternoon session with Shilo. First of all the Compadres team which consists of Georgia, Norm, Luis and Shilo are unbelievably big hearted, talented, and hard working - because of them getting Erik horseback is possible ~ Thank you so much all of you! We are truly grateful for the partnership. Then of course there is the rest of the team, the Horses For Heroes cowboy Up! Crew - because of our Cowboy Up! participants who volunteer with us to get Erik horseback we have smooth sessions - thank you Stewart and Emily, you are outstanding! A special thanks to Chris Chaisson for all the photographs who came to cheer Erik on - you rock! To Erik's parents... thank you for bringing Erik into our world, we are honored to have you all as part of our family! And to Erik, WE ARE SO PROUD OF YOU!!! You fill our hearts with joy! EXCELLENT job! Keep up the great work!

National Purple Heart Day Today!

2011-08-07T16:46:00.001-07:00

Today is National Purple Heart Day and we celebrated with the Maverick Club in Cimarron yesterday as their guests at their 2nd Annual WRCA Rodeo ~ it was great fun! The talent of these working cowboys and their steeds is truly amazing to watch!

The Maverick club took good care of us welcoming us as their honored guests. As they brought light and gave thanks to all the military veterans who have served and are serving this country, the Mavericks also spread the word about our organization's work, thanks to announcer and noted Western music star RW Hampton. The Mavericks also invited our very own Purple Heart recipient, Cowboy Up! graduate and San Cristobal Ranch cowboy, Sterling Bucholz U.S.M.C./Ret to ride in the Purple Heart Flag to kick off the rodeo events. Awesome job Sterling, you continue to make us proud!

Upon completion of the rodeo there was a salt block throwing contest (see the last two pictures below). For those of you who do not know what a salt block is, it is a block of salt and trace minerals that livestock lick to obtain minerals for a healthy system. The block weighs a hefty 50 lbs! You can understand now the challenge of this contest. Whoever can throw the the block furthest wins! There was an entry fee to participate in this challenge, the more participants the bigger the winnings, but the Mavericks surprised us by splitting the proceeds and donating half to our organization ~ again, thank you Maverick Men! You are great guys and we are grateful to know and share some time with you all!!! Thank you to all the salt block throwing participants too! You rock, no pun intended! Special thanks to our Maverick Brothers, Randy Chambers, Spider Holmgren and Jeremiah Johnson. You guys are the best!

Sgt. 1st Class Leroy Petry - Welcome Home!

2011-07-30T07:58:00.000-07:00

Medal of Honor hero from Santa Fe gets hometown welcome at Capitol By Trip Jennings The New Mexican

Medal of Honor recipient Sgt. 1st Class Leroy Petry, left, jokes with Rick Iannucci of Horses for Heroes, a program for injured or wounded veterans, Friday during his welcome home’ ceremony at the Capitol. Jane Phillips/The New Mexican - Jane Phillips/«IPTCCredit»

Sgt. 1st Class Leroy A. Petry is living in a whirlwind.

He has been since July 12, the day President Barack Obama presented him the Medal of Honor.

Two days after Petry received the medal, comedian Jon Stewart called Petry Luke Skywalker on national TV, referring to the robotic device the Santa Fe native wears in place of the right hand he lost in a May 2008 firefight. The talk show host also marveled at the tour in Afghanistan that Petry completed after his injury.

Since then, various officials have feted Petry, including in separate ceremonies on opposite ends of the country — Washington state and Columbus, Ga.

But Friday was special, Petry said. He was in his hometown. Maybe it was that Gov. Susana Martinez led a crowd gathered in the Capitol Rotunda in a rendition of "Happy Birthday." Petry turned 32 Friday. Or maybe it was the 40-second standing ovation his fellow New Mexicans gave him after he spoke.

" 'Wow.' That's what I've been saying since I stepped off the plane," Petry said after being wished happy birthday in song.

The crowd already knew what Petry had done to receive the nation's highest military honor.

After clearing a building in Afghanistan, Petry and another soldier passed near another break in a wall, and both were shot. One bullet went through the upper thighs of both of Petry's legs. He continued to participate in the firefight.

As another soldier examined his wounds, the enemy threw one grenade, which exploded several meters away. The enemy threw a second grenade over the chicken coop. It rolled within feet of two of Petry's fellow Army Rangers. Petry managed to grab the grenade, but it exploded as he tossed it away.

He lost his right hand, but saved two lives.

"Sgt. Petry stands before us a hero for his gallant acts on May 26 (2008), but he stands before us as a hero who was melded and molded here in Santa Fe," Timothy Hale, Cabinet secretary for the New Mexico Veteran Affairs, said minutes before Petry spoke Friday. "The things that he learned, he learned upon the shoulders, upon a heritage, of a proud state of New Mexico, a state proud with military heritage. ... You are an example for our children to follow."

When Petry spoke, you could hear a pin drop.

He made sure to thank his fellow New Mexicans for their support.

Then he made sure to say the Medal of Honor was not his alone, but represented "everyone in the uniform."

Petry also revealed a sly sense of humor.

"I love green chile," he said, prompting laughter from the crowd. "The whole time I went through rehab, I argued with Texans about poblano peppers and Hatch green chiles."

What many in the crowd did not know was that Petry had eaten at Tomasita's earlier in the day, getting a jump on his goal of eating "a lot of green chile" during his stay in New Mexico. "It's just not the same in Washington state," he quipped in an interview with media after Friday's speech.

Petry uses "yes, sir" or "yes, ma'am" a lot. He also exhibits a loyalty to his fellow Rangers, wearing the names of 10 Rangers from the 2nd Ranger Battalion who have been killed "since the global war on terror has started."

Petry had flown to New Mexico from Fort Benning, Ga. "I got to spend time with my fellow Ranger brothers," he said in an interview following Friday's ceremony. "That was tops for me. The only place I'd rather be is back overseas."

Asked if there were anything he wanted his fellow Americans to know, Petry responded, "The resiliency of all the wounded soldiers."

Petry is working with wounded soldiers returning from the battlefield.

"That's part of what drives me," he said. "I didn't recover on my own. It was recovery with fellow wounded service members that drove me to push harder and to see how hard they were pushing and what improvements they were making. It's rewarding for me."

On hand for the ceremony honoring Petry on Friday was one of New Mexico's other living Medal of Honor recipients, Hiroshi Miyamura.

Miyamura was awarded the medal for his actions on April 25, 1951, near Taejon-ni, Korea. Miyamura, a corporal at the time, helped ensure his fellow troops withdrew from an enemy overrunning their position and killed dozens of enemy combatants.

"I would advise him to keep in good shape because he's going to be kept busy for an awful long time," Miyamura said of Petry.

Miyamura said that as a Medal of Honor recipient, he had attended as many as a dozen ceremonies and other public events every year since 1967.

"You just have to decide which ones you're able to attend and which ones don't conflict with the one that you already committed yourself to," Miyamura said. "That's what he is going to be up against. There is a demand for him all over the country to make appearances. He's got a lot to look forward to."

Petry seemed to acknowledge what he is store for.

"A lot of people say you're going to be overwhelmed," Petry said. "Every chance I get to talk to our service members and ... our veterans is a great moment for me, so how can you not love that?"

Happy 4th of July!!!

2011-07-04T14:34:00.000-07:00

Our friend Bill Manns took this photo of Cody and Lear this July - thought you'd all like it!

Also, look who got quoted int America's Horse this month! Click Image for Larger View:

Sgt. Erik Schei Cowboys Up!

2011-06-20T18:17:00.001-07:00

Sgt. Erik Schei, US Army Combat Engineer, wounded in action in Mosul, Iraq. Our newest Cowboy Up! veteran saddling up for the first time...

Here Erik prepares for his lift with NARHA Certified instructor Georgia Smith, Cowboy Up! Director Rick Iannucci, and Eric's dad Gordon.

With the greatest of ease; Out of the chair and up in the air and Erik gently mounts Shilo. Smiles and laughs abound!

Erik learning the commands "Walk on" and Whoa"

Erik, the Cowboy Up! crew, and his new buddy Shilo.

Smiling away and ready for next time!

With special thanks to our Program Partners Lawrence & Suzanna Becerra and the Las Campanas Compadres team, Director Georgia Smith and Norm Brown. Your compassion and generosity helped get another Hero horseback, and for that we are deeply grateful! You guys rock!!!

Women Veteran Retreat ~ Huge Success!

2011-06-20T17:32:00.000-07:00

Thank you to all our Women Veteran Participants, without your enthusiasm this retreat would not have been such a success! We look forward to many more!

A special thanks to New York Deli for putting together lunches for our ladies - I particularly loved the chocolate!!! Many thanks Jeffrey and Ramona!

Takes me a little time to put together the greatness of this day into words, so instead please enjoy some photos ~ A picture is worth a thousand words!

Wrangler National Patriot

2011-06-03T15:09:00.000-07:00

Well, it is official... We are Honored to be endorsed by and partnered with Wrangler National Patriot!!!

Wrangler brand through their Wrangler National patriot Program has designated our organization as one of their approved 501 (C) 3 charities that PRCA rodeos and other western events hosting a Wrangler National Patriot event can make contributions to.

We are designated as a Wrangler National Patriot Event at the following New Mexico Rodeo's:

Rodeo de Santa ~ June 22nd - 25th, 2011 ~ 2801 Rodeo Road, Santa Fe, NM

Maverick Club 89th Annual 4th of July Rodeo ~ July 4th, 2011 ~ Maverick Rodeo Grounds, Cimarron, NM

Maverick Club WRCA Rodeo ~ August, 6th, 2011 ~ Maverick Rodeo Grounds, Cimarron, NM

Wrangler National Patriot Program is best described by themselves, as stated on their website:

"The program was seeded with a check for $50,000 donated by Wrangler in the name of cowboy legend and long-time friend of the Wrangler family, Jim Shoulders. The check was presented December 12, 2009 at the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas, NV.

"We have a high level of pride and respect for the individuals serving in the U.S. military who show heroism every day in an effort to protect our country. This is our chance to give back to those veterans who have suffered injuries fighting for our country's safety and freedom, and to their families who have lost a loved one while on duty," said Phil McAdams, president, Wrangler Specialty Apparel. "It is a cause we believe will resonate with the western industry and rodeo community in particular, and one they will get behind with sincerity."

Wrangler will donate a portion of the proceeds of Wrangler National Patriot shirts to charities providing support to military veterans and their families. The Wrangler National Patriot shirts will be available at rodeos across the country as well as western specialty retailers nationwide that carry Wrangler Western Wear.

Wrangler is encouraging rodeo committees across the country to create their own fundraising events and connect with locally based charities to provide assistance to wounded or fallen veterans and their families."

To find out more about Wrangler National Patriot please go to:

Wrangler National Patriot

Free Day Retreat for Women Veterans

2011-06-01T11:57:00.000-07:00

Horses For Heroes – NM, Inc. is proud to present their partnership with Judy Schneider the founder of Healing Through Horses to offer you an experience of self-discovery through the way of the horse. Through personal and hands on interactions with your equine partners you will experience both a sense of empowerment and a greater sense of self-awareness.

Rejuvenate Your Soul, Awaken Your Passion and Restore Your Strength

Gift Yourself Time for Celebration and Inspiration

NO HORSE EXPERIENCE NECESSARY

When: June 19th, 2011 from
Time: 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.
Location: Crossed Arrows Ranch 3774 Hwy 14, Santa Fe, NM
Lunch provided
Space is limited to 12 participants, please contact Nancy De Santis at 505.577.1294 or nancy@horsesforheroes.org to register

Cowboy Libertarian Radio interview

2011-05-29T07:36:00.000-07:00

Patrick Dorinson interviewed Rick Iannucci today on KFBK 1530 AM Fox News Radio and his show the "Cowboy Libertarian" out of California in celebration of Memorial Weekend.

Listen to the Interview Here

Please check out Patrick's radio show website Cowboy Libertarian

The HatSmith of Santa Fe

2011-05-25T08:15:00.000-07:00

Say hello to our newest Program Partner The HatSmith of Santa Fe, Inc. Located at 228 Ortiz Street in downtown Santa Fe.

Art and Fran Sundheim are graciously providing our graduates with a custom cowboy hat shaped by our long-time pard' JD Noble.

Visit their website at: www.thehatsmith.com

Sgt. Alroy Billman U.S. Army Ret. is all smiles sporting his new hat and looking good! Thanks ya'll!!!

Real Hero & Office Alternatives

2011-05-24T16:04:00.000-07:00

At a ceremony breakfast the Red Cross Real Heroes Award 2011 presented Heroes awards for their extraordinary courage in ten different categories. Sgt. Andrew Brandi was nominated by Horses For Heroes - NM, Inc. Director Rick Iannucci and was presented the Good Samaritan Hero Award by non other than our good friend and all-around great guy, Steve Stucker, co-anchor and weatherman for KOB TV News.

After the ceremony we headed to the office to visit the smiling faces of our stellar staff! These are the friendly faces who take your incoming calls Monday through Friday. With Office Alternatives taking charge we are able to be out on the range with our veterans getting them back in the saddle! Thank you ladies, you gals rock!!!

Bonanza Creek Spring Branding Days

2011-05-20T15:38:00.001-07:00

With having gathered the prior day we were able to get straight down to it... Sorting first, then branding...

The next day turned cold, but you can't wait for mother nature to cooperate.

Bonanza Creek Spring Working

2011-05-19T17:21:00.001-07:00

Alroy and Duke prepare for departure.

This year we gathered a day ahead of the branding - it worked out real well as them cows were spread out far and wide, but that is why there are several hands on deck to get the job done.

Volunteer Chuck Franco and St. Jack lead the way with Bonanza Creek Ranch Manager Steve Price and Horses For Heroes - NM, Inc. Director to begin the gather.

Here we have Cowboy Up! participant Alroy movin' cows to camp.

Back at headquarters and after a most excellent meal prepared by chuckwagon master, Carl Hawkins. Standing under the fly from left to right is Cowboy Up! Directors, Nancy De Santis & Rick Iannucci, Program Partner - Bonanza Creek Ranch Manager, Steve Price, Cowboy Up! Participant Alroy Billman, Cowboy Up! volunteer, Chuck Franco, Cowboy Up! Instructor and cook extraordinaire, Carl Hawkins, and Program Partner- Henry McKinley, Staple Cross Ranch.

Drum Roll Please...! Our newest Cowboy Up! Graduate...
Sporting his new Purple Wildrag...
Sgt. Alroy Billman U.S. Army Ret. (Navajo)

Left to right: Chuck Franco, Alroy Billman and Rick Iannucci

How do you Brand a Bull?

2011-05-17T14:10:00.001-07:00

CAREFULLY!!!

What a Monday! We started out the morning with another CowGIRL Up! session.

Working on strengthening balance, a vital element in horseback riding.
Well done!

... Then we broke for a little lunch before heading over to, program partner, Henry McKinley's to brand some bulls, but first there is preparation...

Like putting a proper housing on to of the chute to keep bulls from jumping out.

...clearing the alley...

...running the bulls up chute...

Look at the size of that neck!

...Brand...

...and that's how it's done!

We continued the neighborin' with the help of one of our volunteers, Chuck Franco. Fix'in windmills is all part of the ranching job.

Then back to the ranch for a little bit of a ride, having our voluteers and participants getting to know their horses before the next day's gather and branding for the week.

We're ready!

Instructor Honored

2011-05-15T21:30:00.001-07:00

In a private ceremony we presented one of our fine instructors and superb horseman his wildrag for all he has done and continues to do for our veterans and our Horses For Heroes Cowboy Up! program. Kiowa Cranson is credited for the training of one of our fine four-legged instructors, Stiltz and for the continued mentorship of Cowboy Up! program graduate, Sterling Bucholz U.S.M.C./Ret.

Lt. to Rt.: Sterling, Kiowa & Nancy De Santis Cowboy Up! Director

San Cristobal Branding

2011-05-14T20:55:00.000-07:00

We kicked off branding season with and invitation from Program Partner, Singleton Ranches at San Cristobal. Horses For Heroes - NM, Inc. Cowboy Up! was there to help gather and brand. As a bonus, the following pictures are from our very own Cowboy Up! participant Brian Johnson, US Army (ret.) - thanks Johnny and Thank you Grant for the invite!

All Around Performance Horse - Clovis, NM

2011-05-14T19:59:00.001-07:00

and the 2nd Week of May in review...

May 7th and 8th we were down in Clovis to experience the RFD -TV's All Around Performance Horse in action courtesy of program partner, Working Ranch Magazine. The All Around Ranch Rodeo is one of the best times in Rodeo, getting to see real working ranch cowboys doing their best in ranch competition!

Working Ranch sponsored the Bronc Riding event, and boy did those Broncs Buck!

Ethan Lee, Hard Luck Cowboy went to Bronc Rider Ethan Lee from Pine Grove, L.A.
Cowboy Up! Director Rick Iannucci also presented Ethan with a Working Ranch Magazine subscription courtesy of Tim O'Byrne.

Then back home for Monday's Veteran sessions...

Remember, as Dana Bowman says: "It's the Ability, NOT the disability!"

Report from Santa Fe with Lorene Mills

2011-05-04T05:43:00.000-07:00

You can view Lorene Mills in depth interview with Rick by following the link below:

Report From Santa Fe

Enjoy!

New Four-legged Instructors

2011-05-04T05:42:00.001-07:00

We'd like to introduce some of our new instructors, Duke and Aztec have joined our team from the Express UU Bar! ~Thanks Mike!

New fallen spring snow welcomed Rick and I as we entered Cimarron on Monday afternoon - ahh, New Mexico spring!

Duke played hard to get as you can barely see him in the distance heading in the opposite direction while Mustang and Aztec look on.

There he is!

Nice job Shyle!

Welcome home boys!

After a day of rest, we worked with the boys in the round pen and they hadn't forgotten a thing!

Even Serge gave Duke a try.

He's a real cowboy horse!

Breaking in the new chaps courtesy of Jack Gully - Thanks Jack, your chaps rock!

Cowboy Up! Thanks the Turquoise Trail Fire Fighters

2011-04-27T20:34:00.000-07:00

On April 26th the Cowboy Up! crew presented the Turquoise Trail Volunteer Fire Fighters with a framed photo of its Cowboy C.A.R.E. Open Range First Aid Class # 001. Cowboy Up! Directors Rick Iannucci and Nancy De Santis along with Thomas Wingate and EMT Stewart Angell presented Fire Chief Kevin Barrows and his crew of fire fighters the photo in appreciation for the use of their facility to conduct this important training.

Death in Libya and Troop Suicide Tolls

2011-04-20T16:38:00.001-07:00

Photographer unknown (please let me know if you know).

Today we mourn the loss of Oscar-nominated filmmaker and photographer Tim Hetherington. It is with great sadness that we learned of Tim's death and our condolences go out to his family and friends for we were honored to have met Tim along with Major Dan Kearney only nine months ago at a private reception following the debut of his film "Restrepo" the Afghan War film of which he co-directed with author Sebastian Junger. The film was nominated for an Oscar for best documentary in 2011.

Here is what we read on an AOL news flash: "Tim Hetherington, and Chris Hondros, a Pulitzer Prize-nominated photographer, were killed in the city of Misrata after being hit by mortar fire during fighting between Muammar Gaddafi's forces and Libyan rebels. Two other photographers, Guy Martin and Chris Brown, were also injured."

You most likely will see these photographers deaths reported this evening on the nightly news and in days to come, but here is something you won't be seeing...

Did you know that on average there are eighteen suicides per day by our OIF/OEF Troops? I have been hearing this for close to a year now, yet I have not seen it reported that heavily. I wonder what the current numbers are?

"The Navy Times reported from 2001 to 2009 the Army's suicide rate increased from 9 out of 100,000 soldiers to 23 out of every 100,000. It was also reported during the same time the Marine's suicides rates increased from 16 out of 100,00 to 100,000. Keep in mind from 2001 - 2009 there was a 76 percent increase in psychiatric drug being subscribed !!!! I also want to mention suicides are even higher when you factor in the Veterans here at home that are taking their lives, Infact just a couple of days ago the ArmyTimes reported 18 veterans commit suicide each day ( http://current.com/1uekg4c ). The attempted suicides rates are even higher than those did in fact take their own life. With these statistics there is a serious problem here, and it needs to be addressed."

Remember this does not include the military action in Libya now - are you outraged? I am - for this is why we do what we do here at Cowboy Up!

Blessings to all who have suffered a loss of their loved ones, our hearts are with you.

Nancy De Santis
Cowboy Up! Director

The Christian Science Monitor

2011-04-19T15:28:00.000-07:00

Click the article to enlarge

The Christian Science Monitor is an international news organization that delivers thoughtful, global coverage via its website, weekly magazine, daily news briefing, email newsletters, and mobile site. In this week's edition they published an article written by April Reese (above). They also published a multi-media clip for you to view that was created by CSM's photographer Melanie Stetson Freeman, who spent the weekend with us back in March - she did an outstanding job so please have a look:

The CSM isn't a religious magazine, in fact it's more of a "Monitor" and all about unbiased journalism - just what I like - they report the news and not their opinion unlike the news these days - it's refreshing and eye opening. I've taken some text from their CSM's website to enlighten us all:

"In an era when the mainstream media has narrowed its lens, we're convinced readers yearn for the opposite. This global perspective comes naturally; the Monitor's founder, Mary Baker Eddy, explained our mission this way: "To injure no man, but to bless all mankind."

Mrs. Eddy's statement contains another distinguishing feature. The purpose of our journalism is to "bless" not "injure." That is central to how we cover the news:

* We're unrelenting but fair.

* We're excited by what’s new and developing - yet always mindful of the history behind us.

* We're broad in scope but written for the individual.

* And we make a point of resisting the sensational in favor of the meaningful.

* We're also free to be an independent voice, devoid of the corporate allegiances and pressures that critics say too often skew today's media.

* Join us for a daily distillation of a changing world - your world."

Let me repeat this: "devoid of the corporate allegiances and pressures that critics say too often skew today's media." - Now THAT's real journalism!

Many thanks to April, Melanie and the Christian Science Monitor!

Office Alternatives Visit & Cow Tipping

2011-04-18T08:23:00.000-07:00

Friend and Entrepreneur, Deb Austin, of Office Alternatives came up with some of her lovely staff this weekend to take in a breath of fresh mountain air and to visit our Cowboy Up! program. This is the part of our family who answers your calls Monday through Friday making sure your calls get to us directly while we are out working in the field - literally! Thanks for taking the time out of your personal weekend to come up and spend some quality time with us, we so enjoyed having you!

If you are in NM and need a professional office space with board rooms and training facilities or just a space where you can meet clients, and have uninterrupted top-notch phone service, then Office Alternatives is your answer! Please give them a call at 505.796.9600, here is there website too: www.OfficeAlternatives.com

For more pictures on their visit please see our public Facebook page - click our Facebook badge to the right of your screen.

Afterward we got down to our ranch work, tipping the horns on our heifers creating an even safer environment for when we are working with our cattle. Don't worry all, it's like cutting your nails.

Cowboy Up! C.A.R.E.

2011-04-02T20:31:00.000-07:00

In preparation for our season of spring branding, cattle drives, and veterans sessions we attended a course being put on by Horses For Heroes- NM Inc. Cowboy Up! called C.A.R.E. (Cowboy Assessment Response Evacuation). In a nutshell, it was Open Range First Aid training specially designed for us and was presented by our own Special Forces Trained, Senior Medic Neil "Doc" Riley, NREMT-P, Wilderness EMT and our staff EMT and Wilderness First Responder, US Army (ret) Aeromedical Aidman Stewart Angell.

We covered preventative medicine, injury assessment, CPR review, spoke about fractures, splinting, simple sprains & strains, concussions, dislocations, lacerations and punctures wounds, heat exhaustion and dehydration.

Thanks guys for this wonderful, comprehensive class!

Special thanks to Carl Hawkins for the SCRUMPTIOUS meal, and to our very own Kitchen Angel, Julee Angell for putting it all together!

We'd also like to thank The Turquoise Trail Volunteer Fire Department for welcoming us and most of all, for the use of their facilities!

You can see more photos from our day on our Public Facebook page! Just click the link listed to the right.

Aero BLSS Kits for PASGT Helmets

2011-03-30T11:46:00.000-07:00

Personal Armor System for Ground Troops

If you have a son or daughter in Combat please send them an Aero BLSS kit for PASGT Helmets. I am not being paid to promote Aero Kits, it's just that when I heard about them from a friend who sent a set to her son and spoke of how much better they are over any other issued pads I was amazed. Apparently these pad kits were issued with the first 500,000 ACH helmets in 2005, but since then, less superior pads are being issued with the Advanced Combat Helmets. Why our government would send anything less than superior is beyond me which is why I implore you to send an Aero Kit to your loved one oversees.

Here is what, Mark O'Byrne, USMC had to say:

"When you're on the battle field it is inconvenient to keep having to adjust your kevlar or deal with the headaches from traditional head bands or low bidder pads. That is why I used Oregon Aero Helmet Pads on both of my tours in Iraq. They are easy to clean, durable, comfortable and they protect better from concussion."

Thanks Mark! The concussion statement really got me. With the amount of Traumatic Brain Injuries that our troops are coming back with, isn't it obvious that these are the only pads our combat troops should be using?

Blessings,
Nancy De Santis
Cowboy Up! Director

Here is a link to purchase the Aero BLSS Kit:
Oregon Aero BLSS Kit for PASGT Helmet

The Oregon Aero® BLSS® Kit (Ballistic Liner and Suspension System) and BLU® Kit (Ballistic Liner Upgrade) are widely regarded as the quality standard for ballistic helmet upgrades. Oregon Aero® Ballistic Helmet Pads can be used in the MICH Helmet, ACH Helmet, LWH Helmet, RBR Helmet, PASGT Helmet, Protech Helmet and Marine CVC Helmet, as well as Other Ballistic Helmets.

Developed for the U.S. Army Special Operations MICH helmet, Oregon Aero® Ballistic Helmet Pads meet the original specifications of the MICH helmet and exceed current U.S. Army requirements. Unlike other pad systems on the market, Oregon Aero® Ballistic Helmet Pads provide a high level of protection and comfort that encourages troops to wear their helmets.

Oregon Aero® Ballistic Helmet Pads benefits:

Pain-free
More Stable
Superior shock absorption
Flame Resistant
Moisture and waterproof
Self-wicking
Positively buoyant
Gas and air permeable
Reduce sound reverberation
Install without any helmet shell modifications

Tests conducted at independent laboratories confirm Oregon Aero® Pads provide superior shock absorption.

Horses For Healing

2011-03-24T19:52:00.000-07:00

Horses For Healing: is a Photo, Audio & Multimedia Production created by Rosi Calderon and Mindy Sayers. We met these fabulous women via Santa Fe Photo Workshops. This is their mini documentary on our Horses for Heroes - NM, Inc Cowboy Up! program. Interview with Cowboy Up! Director Rick Iannucci and Sterling Bucholz U.S.M.C./Ret.

Special thanks to Sterling who so graciously gave an interview after a long day in the saddle moving cattle with us - thanks Sterling!

Great Weekend!

2011-03-21T17:27:00.000-07:00

We had a great busy weekend with some great visits from our Horses For Heroes - Cowboy Up! family...

Friday afternoon two of our Purple Heart Veterans stopped by on their way to the 4th Annual Bully Bash in Pueblo, CO. One took 1st, two placed 3rd, and another place 2nd in various categories - Good Job and congratulations!!!

Melanie Freeman from the Christian Science Monitor was having a visit taking some shots for the article coming out in April - be sure to pick up a copy!

OMG! Too cute for words!

Preparing for the "show stance".

Melanie fell in love...

...and Ranger did too!

What can I say..............................Priceless!

But before the guys left, they had to have a visit and say hello to our other four leggeds
Hollywood always has to get in on the picture!

St. Jack now sees the coast is clear...

...to get all the attention...

...and loving it as usual!

So that's where Hollywood went, he saw the REAL camera!!!

Then on Saturday we had two Cowboy Up! sessions

St. Jack's first session of the season.

Cowboy coffee anyone?

To cap off the day we had our very own Carl Hawkins bless our tipi - Many Thanks Carl!

Carl Hawkins, (blackfoot),USMC RECON

2011-03-18T17:25:00.000-07:00

Temple Grandin, PhD. & Rick Iannucci

On Friday, March 11th Dr. Temple Grandin Professor of Animal Science Colorado State University spoke in the Great Hall at St. John's College in Santa Fe. Her " Autisim, Animals And Different Ways Of Thinking" captivated a packed house as part of the Steiner Lecture Series.

Dr. Grandin and Rick Iannucci discussed ways combat wounded veterans currently participating in his Horses for Heroes- Cowboy UP! program were using her book, "Humane Livestock Handling" and how understanding the process of visual thinking has helped communicating cowboy skills to Veterans suffering with Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI).

Announcing Cattle Drives on Express UU Bar Ranch

2011-03-07T07:39:00.000-08:00

We here at Horses For Heroes - NM, Inc. Cowboy Up! are proud to announce a collaboration with Program Partner Express UU Bar Ranch in Cimarron, NM.

Drum roll please...

Cattle Drives at Express UU Bar! City Slickers as well as experienced horseman can come out and ride on a real working Northern New Mexico cattle Ranch and participate in an early summer cattle working. Come out and be part of what less than 1% of the population is lucky enough to do for a living. Ride and work along side Cowboy Up! veterans on a four-night and three-day cattle drive. We are offering this to the public using our Cowboy Up! horses (limit to 5 or 6 persons) or folks who already have a horse. Dates are available in both June and August. Come and live the dream!

Call Sue Fullen at the Express UU Bar at 575.376.2035 to book or e-mail information@expressuubar.com

Click on flier to enlarge:

Local Flavor Magazine Article

2011-03-04T13:48:00.000-08:00

Emily Ruch, writer and Kate Russell, photographer did an OUTSTANDING job on our Cowboy Up! program in the March Issue of the Local Flavor Magazine - Emily's story is below.

Tall and slender, with rivulets of golden-brown hair cascading loosely down her back, my first thought when Nancy greets me at the door is that this woman is as stunning as she is strong. Before I have a chance to introduce myself, Rick comes striding across a ruddy stretch of Saltillo tile and shakes my hand warmly. He immediately offers me a cup of tea, and Nancy pulls three mugs from the cupboard. As we wait for the kettle to boil he asks about my time in the service, my family’s ranch and whether or not I take honey in my tea. Meet retired U.S. Marshal and former Green Beret Rick Iannucci and his fiancée Nancy De Santis of the Crossed Arrows Ranch. Together they administer the Santa Fe-based nonprofit, Horses for Heroes - New Mexico, Inc., and its visionary horse therapy and vocational rehabilitation program for veterans, Cowboy Up!

Steaming mugs in hand, we file into the living room and sink deep into the cushions of two overstuffed sofas. Rick is an eager storyteller, and by the time I’ve taken two sips he is well on his way to recounting how he and Steve Price of the Bonanza Creek Ranch shared an epiphany that ultimately led to the creation of Cowboy Up! He recalls the moment when, weary with the sweet exhaustion of a long day spent gathering cattle, they realized, “We know that it helps us to get horseback. We’ll get other guys horseback.” The room fades and I remember early mornings with my uncle, saddling up in the dark and slipping through shadows of mesquite and redberry juniper while dawn was just a thought on the horizon. Maybe, I muse, cowboys have had it figured out all along, and I mention what feels right to call the spirituality of horsemanship. “Which is huge for us,” Rick responds. “Some of the old timers get it. They don’t say it like we say it. You know, ‘I don’t know about no zen stuff, Rick, but I sure do feel right when I’m ahorseback!’”

That “zen stuff” is exactly what Rick and Nancy strive to share with veterans suffering from physical injuries and combat trauma. “The effects of war, especially in the space age, multiple deployments, the operational tempo is unlike anything anybody’s ever experienced before,” Rick says. “I see these kids comin’ off these airplanes—they don’t even shave and they’ve got a combat patch.” I shake my head, remembering the day my youngest joe celebrated his eighteenth birthday in a forward operating base chow hall. “Holy shit!” he says, “This kid will have seen more combat than all of his ancestors put together in his short little lifetime.” Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon for young soldiers to serve three or even four deployments of twelve to eighteen months apiece in today’s modern, all-volunteer military, and some serve more, so it’s little wonder we’re seeing such a high incidence of PTSD among returning vets.

Rather than shying away from this overwhelming problem, or becoming paralyzed with despair, Rick and Nancy approach it in the no-nonsense manner of a cowhand mending fence—sometimes literally. Through partnerships with the New Mexico Cattle Growers’ Association and seven member ranches, Cowboy Up! gives veterans a chance to try their hands at a variety of ranch-related chores, relying on the remarkable similarities between the cowboy and warrior cultures to provide them with vocational rehabilitation that goes far beyond preparation for a new career, and horses are at the heart of the program’s success. “The horse is the first equation of the program,” says Nancy. “When they come in here and work with horses, it’s their first
handshake of getting back to themselves and touching their center,” she says, “because they’ve been so lost, especially with coming back into society and trying to reintegrate.”

Rick leans over and selects a ginger cookie from a dish on the coffee table, considers it for a moment and then delicately nibbles off a corner. Between bites he tells me how a lot of the guys feel they get more from an afternoon on the ranch than they get from months of treatment at the VA. “No disrespect to the VA, they’re just outgunned out there. I mean they’ve just got people comin’ home in buckets.”

“I think that’s what nature does for our spiritual being,” Nancy responds, “You’re stuck in a white room, you’re already kinda tense.”

“And you’ve spent the last four or eight or twenty years,” I add, “being conditioned not to talk about that stuff.”

“Especially to somebody you just, like ‘What do I have in common with you, and why should I dig down and tell you anything?’ Whereas they get out here...” He glances out the window at the silvery folds of sagebrush-dappled foothills. “You know, we’re not counselors, we’re comrades. So when we sit around that fire up there, after you get off your horse, first of all you’ve already had a great experience ‘cause you’ve done the physiotherapy part of the horse—I don’t care who you are, you get on that horse you’re gonna feel fine. It’s just the balance, the motion, they even have a whole science called hippotherapy that delves into the movement and how—”

“—the horse mimics a human’s walking,” Nancy cuts in.

Horses for Heroes utilizes a combination of hippotherapy, therapeutic horseback riding and equine- assisted psychotherapy, but Rick and Nancy don’t get too caught up in the terminology. They’re happy to admit that they’ve stumbled, albeit with decided skill and intention, onto a powerful recipe for the restoration of body, heart and soul—equal parts camaraderie, American Quarter Horse and Turquoise Trail, a pair of fencing pliers and a pinch of faith—and they tailor the ingredients to suit the unique challenges faced by each individual veteran with impressive results. “We had a girl that was in a wheelchair for three years,” says Rick. “They just never dreamed she’d ever go horseback again. We got her horseback, and she’s ridin’ now and doing very very well.”

“Her horse,” Nancy says, “is her therapy.” She smiles and crosses her legs at the knees, faded blue jeans mirrored in a matching pair of friendly, blue eyes.

Beneath the tidy bristle of a horseshoe mustache, Rick is smiling, too. “The things that we see happening are just so rewarding, so magical at times,” he says. “You have the magic of the horse, and then you start seeing people transforming again, and the light coming back in their eyes.”

That sense of satisfaction is enough to make all the sacrifices and hard work worthwhile. Occasionally the nonprofit receives a donation, but it’s predominantly funded out of Rick’s pension. “The balancing act for me,” he says, “is not to put my family in the poor house while still maintaining operational levels of efficiency for the program. So that means the right amount of saddles, the right amount of horses. You know the expression ‘They eat you out of house and home?’ Well we get that, because they literally do.” By partnering with the VA and the New Mexico Military Order of the Purple Heart, who handle intake and vetting, they’ve managed to virtually eliminate administration costs, and none of the instructors are paid, so essentially every cent of every gift goes directly to the program. “Basically it goes to feed the horses,” Rick explains.

Of course, you won’t catch these two complaining, not least of all because they get to spend every day working with horses on their beloved (and breathtaking) Crossed Arrows Ranch. “It’s the best job I’ve ever had,” says Nancy, “the most rewarding.” I’m suddenly reminded of a freckle-faced girl in purple ropers and a pair of hand-me-down chaps, memorizing words like “fetlock” and “withers” and dreaming of one day growing up to be a bona fide cowgirl. When she throws on her old, tan cowboy hat with a hawk feather resting on the weatherworn brim, I realize this woman is living my dream.

With a knowing grin, I recite an old Arabian proverb—the wind of Heaven is that which blows between a horse’s ears—and ask, “How have they managed to enchant mankind for so long?”

“Well, I like the Arab quote there,” says Rick. “Man’s search for meaning has always centered around things which are magical and majestical to him. The Indians call God the Great Mystery, and I think horses rank right up there with that level of creature. They are a great mystery.”

“The sheer size of them and beauty of them,” says Nancy with reverence, “I’ve always found that hard to put into words to be honest with you.”

“They’re scary and at the same time, they’re gentle. Kinda like the ocean,” Rick reflects, “When you see the ocean, you go, ‘Wow, that is just so beautiful.’ And waves are crashing, and you know that if you swam out there you’d probably get sucked right out into a tide and perhaps drown unless you can defy nature and death. e way I look at it is these creatures are gifts from God, and God has allowed us to establish a partnership with them to accomplish the things we need to do in life.”

“I’d say freedom, too,” says Nancy. “To be on that horseback and go with the wind in your hair and ride like the wind!” Unable to say it any better myself, I nod in agreement.

“You got a pair a boots?” Rick asks, without warning. “We might even be able to rustle you up a pair.”

As it happens, I have a pair of boots in my jeep at this very moment, “because I didn’t know what might happen when I came out here!” I say, laughing.

“Well, why don’t you come with us?” he asks. “You don’t mind if they get muddy, do you?”

Horses for Heroes - New Mexico, Inc. is located at 3774 New Mexico 14 south of Santa Fe. 505.798.2535. www.horsesforheroes.org. To make a tax-deductible donation, please visit the website or mail a check or money order made payable to Horses for Heroes - New Mexico, Inc. / PO Box 1882 / Santa Fe, NM 87504.

National Day of the Cowboy - July 23rd

2011-03-03T07:18:00.000-08:00

After a long day of moving cattle yesterday we found out that New Mexico has delcared July 23rd as National Day of the Cowboy.

"The legislative clerk read the resolution and then about 20 members each rose to support it and say something about preserving the western traditions or their relative cowboys and work.

The resolution passed 70-0 and then the entire New Mexico State Legislature and gallery sang “Home Home On The Range”. Quite moving actually."

Thank you Richard Beal for keeping us apprised of this most important tidbit of information. We would have liked to been at the legislature to see this all come into being, but we were out Cowboyin'!

A beautiful sunset is alway like icing on the cake and quite cherished after a long day of work!

First two sessions of our 2011 season

2011-03-01T19:54:00.000-08:00

We have kicked off our 2011 season these past two days, not many pictures of the cattle instruction because we were horseback instructing, but here are a couple from yesterday.

Don't forget to check our Public Facebook page for the pictures from our Tipi raising!

Working Ranch Magazine Article is On-line!

2011-01-08T09:55:00.000-08:00

Order of the Purple Wildrag By Tim O'Byrne

The above link will bring you straight to the article that Tim O'Byrne wrote for this month's issue of Working Ranch Magazine. Wonderful article Tim, we can't thank you enough!

If you haven't your own subscription please do give yourself a wonderful gift and go subscribe at:

Working Ranch Magazine

New Mexican Stockman Article

2010-12-23T11:10:00.000-08:00

NEW MEXICO STOCKMAN DECEMBER. 2010
The Magazine for Southwestern Agriculture
Official Publication of the New Mexico Cattle Growers Association

Article: Veterans, Ranchers Working Together to Help Returning Soldiers

**********************************************************************************
Horses for Heroes – Cowboy UP!, a Santa Fe-based program to help veterans returning from combat in Iraq and Afghanistan by using horses and horseback riding, is bringing New Mexico ranchers and veterans together. Free to veterans and active military, returning soldiers learn to care for and ride horses, then learn other ranch tasks, including working cattle, and eventually assist in workings of participating ranches.
Program founder Rick Iannucci, former Green Beret and retired U.S. Marshal and now a rancher himself set up the initiative based on similarities between military and ranching cultures that he felt could help his fellow veterans.
“The values of the ranching community are almost an overlay of military values,” he said. “The no-nonsense attitude and work ethic are exactly the kind of atmosphere our veterans are used to. It’s something you just don’t get hanging at the mall or working at any many other jobs.”
Veterans suffering from both post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and/or physical combat injuries from service in Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) and Operation Enduring Freedom – Afghanistan (OEF) are welcomed into the program but there are participants who have seen combat in Bosnia and Somalia too. “I saw a big need – soldiers are coming home in droves, and there are few outlets to help them,” Rick said. “We take regular people, send them over to Iraq and Afghanistan and train them how to fight. Then, we bring them home, sometimes without even a thank you, and expect them to turn it off and reintegrate automatically. It’s not happening.”
Today’s veterans go directly into combat when they land on the ground, seeing an average of 1500 days of combat. In comparison, soldiers serving in World War II saw an average of 120 days of combat, and Vietnam Veterans saw an average of 240 - 260 days of combat.
Horses for Heroes – Cowboy UP! helps meet some of those returning soldiers’ needs, giving them an opportunity to spend time with others who have had similar experiences. “Our veterans come back from the military, where everything is mission oriented, into the civilian world. They miss having a mission, and they miss the camaraderie of their military brothers,” he explained. “When they come to us, they get a new mission. As soon as they start learning we have them start teaching too, because as you teach someone what you’ve just learned, it reinforces the lesson.”
“We basically show them how to apply their military background and training to something new, while most people are telling them to suppress their military skills,” he continued. “I help them relate those skills to what we are trying to do with the horses and the cattle.”
Rick says he started working on the idea for this program in 2007, and did a pilot project. Initially, he did therapeutic riding work with one soldier suffering from severe PTSD. “When we saw the transformation in this man, and how working with the horses and coming out with us for spring branding and such benefitted him, we knew we wanted to do more.”
Rick also partnered with Pete Comstock, Commander of the New Mexico Military order of the Purple Heart establishing the Warrior Mentor Program. Through this program, returning veterans are paired with combat veterans from the same service and generally the same MOS
( Military Occupational Specialty) , to the benefit of both, he said.
The Cowboy UP! program consists of twelve objective, which include specific tasks and skills taking them from basic horsemanship to working cattle horseback. Graduates receive a purple wild rag, which symbolizes their partnership with the Military Order of the Purple Heart as well as being very practical on cold frosty mornings. Horses for Heroes – Cowboy UP! is the only program of this type nationally that is endorsed by the Military Order of the Purple Heart.
“There are various horse therapy programs around the United States but we are the only ones doing what we are doing,” he noted. “It’s a different focus – we do help participants bond with horses but take it to the next level if they want to. It is all up to them, the sky’s the limit.”
Rick says that the program focuses on what is possible, rather than what is probable, and that attitude is evident in the program’s first graduate, Sterling Bucholz, U.S.M.C./Ret. who received his wild rag in October. Bucholz served in Iraq as a Machine Gunner with the 2nd Battalion 1st Marines, and was struck in the head and severely wounded by enemy sniper fire receiving the Purple Heart and a Navy –Marine Commendation Medal. He returned home in 2005, and suffers from severe PTSD in addition to brain trauma.
After completing the program, he was offered a position with the San Cristobal Ranch.
“We train to standard, not to time. It is a completely self-paced program, and doesn’t matter how long it takes for a veteran to make it through those twelve objectives,” Rick said. “Sterling rocketed through the program in less than a year. Some others just come out and groom the horses and enjoy cowboy coffee and conversation around the fire, and that’s ok, too.”
Quantifying participation in the program is difficult because it is relaxed and self-paced, but Rick said dozens of veterans have taken part. “We have some who come a few times, and some who get very involved. Right now, we probably have a dozen participants at various stages – from the guy who comes out every day to the guy who comes once a month.”
“We are very proud of all our guys,” he continued. “When we have new veterans coming out for the first time, a number of our current participants are always there because they want to help their brothers.”
Horses for Heroes – Cowboy UP! is staffed and operated by volunteers, most of whom are also veterans as well as cowboys or accomplished horseman. “Several of our staff who help instruct and support this effort were veterans that remember coming home from Vietnam and being greeted by protesters. It was a terrible time to be a service member, and we were often treated very poorly by the public,” he explained. “At the ranch, we do all we can to welcome new veterans and to let them know they are coming home.”
None of this would have been possible without the support of the ranching community, Rick said, and he is blessed and thankful for program partners including Mike Hobbs, Express UU Bar Ranch, Cimarron; Steve Price, Bonanza Creek Ranch, Santa Fe; Henry McKinley, Staple Cross Ranch, Santa Fe; Bob Frost, Caprock Creek Ranch, San Jon; Grant and Connie Jo Mitchell, San Cristobal Ranch, Santa Fe; and the New Mexico Cattle Growers Association.
New program participants are referred through the New Mexico Military Order of the Purple Heart, different groups and units of the Veterans Administration Hospital , the U.S. Army’s Wounded Warrior Program (AW2) for combat wounded soldiers just coming off of active duty and the New Mexico Workforce Solutions Veterans department. Occasionally, a veteran who has heard about the program through other channels also seeks them out, he noted.
Another important aspect is the program’s close relationship with the Turquoise Trail Wranglers 4-H Club, which Rick and his fiancée, Nancy DeSantis a primary Cowboy UP! Instructor and co- founder also founded and used as a model for Horses for Heroes – Cowboy UP! “Our two groups, are more like a family – all of my veterans show up to help out with the kids’ events, like the ranch rodeo we put on every October. The veterans want to give back, and to help out, and spending time together is good for the kids and the veterans.”
Future plans include construction of a bunkhouse at the ranch and additional corrals for program horses. Horses for Heroes – Cowboy Up! receives no funding from any government or any other source so they will hold their first benefit dinner December 9th at Vanessie’s Restaurant in Santa Fe. To help support or learn more about the program, visit their website at www.horsesforheroes.org or call Rick at 505 670 2059.

Thumbs Up for our Cowboy Christmas!

2010-12-14T07:00:00.000-08:00

Good evening and big welcome to all the veterans, cowboys, associates of the Cowboy Up! program, and supporters of Horses for Heroes, New Mexico INC.

Though I'm not with you in this room tonight, I can feel the energy, the compassion and the brotherhood that went into creating this special gathering. When truth, trust and patriotism come together like it has tonight distance has no effect on the power that resonates outward. We feel the power no matter where we are; in country on a mission, or safe here in America; horseback on a mountainside, or back at the chuckwagon laughing with the crew. Tonight we are all blessed to be connected to this amazing project, and we count ourselves lucky to be included in such a special group of people.

Relax, enjoy the great meal and the company, and let's give thanks tonight to all those who deserve it.

Tim O'Byrne

Horses For Heroes - NM, Inc. Cowboy Up! Advisor
Editor / Publisher
Working Ranch magazine
Branded #1 by America's Ranchers
www.workingranchmag.com

FOR MORE PHOTOS PLEASE GO TO OUR ALBUM ON OUR PUBLIC FACEBOOK PAGE - click link below:

On the radio with Mary Charlotte

2010-11-30T06:54:00.000-08:00

Listen to our segment on Radio Cafe by clicking the link below

Listen to the Interview Here

Christmas de Caballos Parade

2010-11-21T17:47:00.001-08:00

We were honored when Melanie Scholer of the Corrales Horse and Mule People asked us to be the Grand Marshals for this years Marine Corps' annual Toys For Tots - we of course accepted and today was the day! They provided us with a wonderful red wagon driven by Gus Kefallinos and Ralph Abeyta. His team carried our veterans along with his mascots Lizzy and Chico to greet all who came out to see the parade and donate toys - thank you all!

Crossed Arrows Branding November 20th

2010-11-21T17:46:00.002-08:00

We branded the last of our cattle this past Saturday before turning them out to winter pasture. Some of our program veterans participated in the branding themselves with the roping chores being done by our good friend and neighbor Mr. Henry McKinley and his son Ward.

Because of the size of the cattle Mr. Henry and Ward rope and stretch out the calf in order to receive the brand. After the first roper ropes the hind legs and drags the calf to the fire the ground crew will go in to 1). fold the foreleg prohibiting the calf from getting up and 2). attach the rope to the steer's horns so that the second roper can complete the stretch in order to receive the brand. Now that is old school! To illustrate this I have put various pictures together in order sequence:

Cowboy Up! Road Trip to Visit the Mavericks

2010-11-21T17:46:00.001-08:00

On November 18th we accepted an invitation from Randy Chambers, Asst. Ranch Manager to visit the Vermejo Park Ranch in Cimarron, NM. Our Cowboy Up! crew had the unique opportunity to get up close and personal with one of the only genetically pure bison herds in the world. This herd of bison are the ancestors of the same prehistoric bison that wandered the plains thousands of years ago.
We stopped for lunch at the Historic St. James Hotel, posed for a couple photos where Jesse James and other notable characters have also spent time then we were off to speak at the Maverick Rodeo Club monthly meeting. The Maverick Rodeo Club was established in 1922 and is one of the oldest rodeo clubs in the country. We were honored to speak there about our program and even more honored when we were all presented with membership cards to this great organization.
We are proud to now have the Maverick Rodeo Club as our newest program partner.

Nancy, sterling, Randy & Johnny

St. James Hotel in 1872 - Click photo for Larger view

St. James hotel in 2010

The chutes at Vermejo Park

Sterling, Johnny, Rick, Shyle & Mike Hobbs from the Express UU Bar Ranch.

Comedian/Cartoonist Ricardo Cate our Cowboy Christmas Special Guest

2010-11-19T09:58:00.000-08:00

Click for larger view

New options available to treat PTSD | KOB.com

2010-11-15T09:10:00.000-08:00

Please click the video clip to see KOB Eyewitness News 4 Jeff Maher's interviews with some of our Cowboy Up! Veteran Participants...

New options available to treat PTSD | KOB.com

A Cowboy Christmas - December 9th, 2010

2010-11-06T08:00:00.000-07:00

Click invitation for Larger View

Please join us for A Cowboy Christmas Benefit:
Thursday, December 9th, 2010

Hosted by: Vanessie's Restaurant, 434 W. San Francisco Street
Santa Fe, NM
5:00 - 5:30pm Cocktail Reception
5:30 - 6pm Guest Speaker
6:00 - 7:00 Dinner

Tickets are $75 per person or $100 at the door.
Corporate tables of 8 are available.
You can purchase tickets via our Donate Link to the right or call:
Nicole-(505) 450-8850 or Rick-(505) 670-2059

If you cannot attend please consider purchasing a ticket for one of our Cowboy Up! veteran participants.

Your Donation Is Tax Deductible!

VA/PRRC Visits Our Cowboy Up! Program

2010-11-04T18:32:00.000-07:00

On November 3rd an outstanding group of veterans from the VA moseyed on up to join us for the day. handshakes and smiles were plentiful on a beautiful NM fall day. Veterans were started as we always do with grooming, ground work and before long were in the saddle. Our four legged instructors carried every veteran that attended through not only introductory horsemanship but a few challenges that were even more advanced. After dismounting and caring for the horses and stowing the gear, we enjoyed some cowboy coffee, hot coco and great conversation round the fire. Our cowboy hats are off to a hard charg'in group that we were honored to have here. Welcome home brothers.

A Great Sunday Session October 31st

2010-11-04T06:17:00.000-07:00

Here Kristy is working on the use of core muscles and leg aids to guide her mount through poles

One of our active duty participants using 100% determination to work on his horseback skills prior to his next deployment.

2010 NM Veterans' Wellness Conference

2010-11-04T05:56:00.000-07:00

Cowboy Up! staff and participants attended the Veterans' Wellness Conference Clinicians Day on Friday, October 29th, 2010 - An integrative approach to treating veterans diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Sec. John Garcia's vision to bring a wellness center for PTSD here to NM based on the Fort Bliss Restoration & Resilience Center's innovative treatment program consisting of integrated state-of-the-art treatment modalities is exciting and necessary to say the least.

Senior Military Affairs Advisor to Horses For Heroes Cowboy Up! Program, General George Franzen, USAF ret., speaking about Sgt. Andrew Brandi's book The Warrior's Guide To Insanity. A copy was provided to every veteran!

Day two was Veterans' and Family Day where we had the chance to meet many of those who have served our country and offer them a chance to see what our program is all about by meeting some of our four legged instructors and watching demonstrations by some of our program participants - the response was superb. We were also honored to have spent a part of the afternoon with a visit from Cabinet Secretary John Garcia, his endorsement was inspirational to our hardworking staff and program participants.

Welcome Range Radio our newest program partner!

2010-10-18T21:10:00.000-07:00

We are proud to welcome Range Radio our newest program partner. Range Radio on line 24-7 and in the Santa Ynez, California area on AM 1410 is the brainchild of former New Mexican Bruce Pollock. Pollock's innovative programing has combined real country with real western and is sweeping the nation's internet waves. Pollock has produced a 60 second Public Service Announcement featuring our program that is airing throughout the month of October. We are deeply grateful to this broadcasting visionary and his assistance in helping our program and our combat warriors.
Range Radio is just a click away through our links. Happy Trails.

Fall Work & A Purple Wild Rag For A New Cowboy

2010-10-18T19:40:00.000-07:00

The crisp mornings of October brings us to fall cattle work on our program partner ranches in Santa Fe County. Gathering, sorting, vaccinating and branding remnants prior to weaning and shipping made the many early mornings for our Cowboy UP! staff and veterans worthwhile.We were also pleased to present a Cowboy UP! graduate with a purple wild rag symbolizing his completion of many months of hard work culminating with his going out with us to do the fall cattle gather and working. The purple wildrag is both practical as a piece of working gear that keeps you warm while horseback on those frosty mornings and symbolic as it represents our partnership with not only the Military Order of the Purple Heart but with the fraternity of cowboys everywhere.

Photo by:Connie Jo Mitchell

Photo by:Connie Jo Mitchell

Photo by:Connie Jo Mitchell

Photo by:Connie Jo Mitchell

Photo by:Connie Jo Mitchell

General Loree Sutton MD visits Cowboy UP! Program

2010-10-04T20:25:00.000-07:00

Brigadier General Loree K. Sutton, M.D. Director, who is the highest ranking psychiatrist in the U.S. Army, has served as director of the Defense Centers of Excellence for Psychological Health and Traumatic Brain Injury (DCoE) since November 2007. She also serves as special assistant to the assistant secretary of defense for health affairs. We were honored to have her visit us and spend time here at the Crossed Arrows Ranch. Loree was excited about our program and the positive changes she witnessed first hand with our Cowboy UP! program participants. She will retire in November and we expect to see a lot more of her here at the ranch.

Above: Cowboy coffee around the campfire;L to R Sgt Andrew Brandi USMC, author of "The Warriors Guide to Insanity", Brigadier General Loree Sutton MD, former Green Beret and Cowboy UP! Director, Rick Iannucci, NM Commander Pete Comstock, Military Order of the Purple Heart, Cowboy UP! staff instructor GY Sgt Carl Hawkins, USMC ret.

Below: "Family photo"; L to R, Pete Comstock, Carl Hawkins, Avery Strickland, Rick Iannucci, Kristi LaFrance on Sokee, Nancy De Santis, Andrew Brandi, Loree Sutton

Quarter Horses & Cowboys!!!

2010-09-22T16:30:00.000-07:00

Cowboy Up! program participants demonstrate their newly acquired skills during a working ranch horse versatility practice session.

Click for larger view...

Click for larger view...

September 11, 2010

2010-09-11T20:42:00.000-07:00

BEYOND STRONG the theme for today's parachute jump and motivational speech by our good friend SFC Dana Bowman US Army Special Forces (ret.) - Golden Knights. Pictured Above: Streamers away! prior to Dana's jump into NM National Guard Armory. Below: Cowboy Up! Director Rick Iannucci using his Special Forces skills to set up the DZ (drop zone).

Above: Right on Target! Dana executes a perfect landing flying the Purple Heart parachute. Below: Cowboy Up! participants and staff pose with Dana following his jump. From left to right: Avery Strickland, Neal "Doc" Riley, Stuart Angell, Dana Bowman, Nancy De Santis, Rick Iannucci, Brian Johnson, Sterling Bucholz, Patricia Warwick, Pete Comstock, Andrew Brandi.
Note: Cowboy Up! participants are also Purple Heart recipients.

SFC Dana Bowman and Cowboy Up! director Nancy De Santis get a "leg up" following his "Beyond Strong" presentation to the NM National Guard.

Congressman Ben Ray Lujan Visits the Cowboy Up! Program

2010-09-09T18:06:00.001-07:00

On a beautiful September day here at the Crossed Arrows Ranch in Santa Fe we held a Cowboy UP! session for several of our vets including the NM Military Order of the Purple Heart Commander Pete Comstock. Combat Wounded Veteran and program participant Avery Strickland is seen in the photos assisting Pete in the grooming of his horse Moondancer prior to 'stepping aboard' . During the session we were honored to have our US Congressman Ben Ray Lujan and Ms. Michelle Frost from the New Mexico Cattle Growers Association stop by to see our program first hand and have a cup of coffee and speak with our veteran program participants. The New Mexico Cattle Growers Association is one of our program partners. Veteran Kristi LaFrance is seen horseback in photos here taken during Rep.Lujan and Michelle Frost's visit.

Left to Right: Staff Advisor Andrew Brandi,Cowboy Up! Director Nancy De Santis,Instructor Carl Hawkins,Program participant Kristi LaFrance, Cowboy Up! Director Rick Iannucci, Congressman Ben Ray Lujan,Instructor Trish Warwick, Program participant Stuart Angell,Military Order of the Purple Heart NM Commander Pete Comstock,Program participant Avery Strickland,New Mexico Cattle Growers Association representative Michelle Frost.

Horses Used For Therapy For Returning Soldiers - Video - KOAT Albuquerque

2010-09-09T08:58:00.000-07:00

Joe Griffin with KOAT Action 7 News visited us this past Tuesday here at the ranch. Please click the below link to view the footage:

Horses Used For Therapy For Returning Soldiers - Video - KOAT Albuquerque

Sterling & Rick sorting cattle. Note: This was Sterling's first day moving cattle and doing a great job.

Military Order of the Purple Heart, NM Commander, Pete Comstock also got up on horseback in support of our Warrior Mentor Partner Program.

Kristy's 1st Ride & Upcoming Dinner Talk with Northern New Mexico Horseman's Association

2010-08-19T10:17:00.000-07:00

This past Sunday Kristi had her first horseback ride up here at the ranch - Congratulations Kristi, you're doing great!!!

On Wednesday August 25th, 2010 Horses for Heroes - New Mexico, Inc. Cowboy UP! are proud to be invited to speak at the NNMHA monthly meeting at the Real Burger Restaurant on Old Las Vegas Highway. Dinner begins at 6 p.m. with the meeting and our presentation at 7 p.m.

The panel will include Director Rick Iannucci and lead members of our staff, Director of Training Christina Savitsky, instructors Nancy De Santis, Lori De Santis and our medic and Iraq veteran Sgt. Neal Riley US Army Special Forces as well as two of our newest program participants Lance Corporal Sterling Bucholz USMC and Sgt. Kristi La France US Army. Also from our advisory staff will be the Dept of Defense PTSD expert and author of the book "Warriors Guide to Insanity" Sgt. Andrew Brandi, USMC. They look forward to sharing their stories and insights into how horses have helped them heal. Join us for a great night of sharing with good food and good friends.
For more information about the Northern New Mexico Horseman's Association check out: www.nnmha.com

I'm Back In The Saddle

2010-08-08T07:58:00.000-07:00

Horses For Heroes - New Mexico, Inc. ~ Cowboy Up!

While serving in Iraq, as a Machine Gunner with 2nd Battalion 1st Marines, I was severely wounded by an enemy sniper, when a bullet struck me in the head. I am very blessed to be alive and continue leading the life I am so fortunate to have. Returning home after combat has not been an easy task. As all combat veterans know. I am diagnosed with severe Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (Combat Trauma) and Traumatic Brain Injury. It seems as if I have been fighting a whole other battle in my head since returning home in 2005.

While attending a treatment program at the V.A. I met another combat veteran who asked me if I wanted to go ride horses at a ranch in Santa Fe the following weekend. He told me about this program called "Horses For Heroes - New Mexico Cowboy Up!" and that he had been, and really enjoyed it. I could not believe there was a program for us that would offer such an opportunity. Of course I agreed and we headed from the VA to Santa Fe the next Saturday.

Upon arriving we were greeted as if we were family. Returning home for the first time! Everyone sure made me feel welcomed. We started right away, being introduced to the horses and learning everything step by step. Before I knew it I was in the saddle! Talk about therapy, I was hooked! I was told that there is nothing better for the inside of a person than the outside of a horse, that is the truth. It is just you, the horse, and the instructor - Peace -. My experience that day truly opened my eyes. There really are people out there that do care and want to help.

I have been working with them every chance I get, learning more and more every time. The Horses For Heroes - New Mexico Cowboy Up! "Family" is a wonderful program and I would encourage all of the warriors returning home to come enjoy the same experience I have.

~Sterling Bucholz U.S.M.C./Ret.

Note about the photo above: If you look at the Night Vision Device mounting plate in the center of his helmet you will see the impact of the 7.62 sniper round, one of two that he was hit with creasing his head leaving him with titanium plates and earning him a Purple Heart and the Navy Marine Corps Commendation Medal for Bravery Under Fire for Continuing to Man His Machine Gun and Protecting His Unit.

Important Film

2010-07-31T10:38:00.000-07:00

Last night The Lensic and National Geographic Entertainment Presented RESTREPO - it was a Well Done and Important film. There was a post show with Director Tim Hetherington and Major Dan Kearney, and we were honored to visit with them at a private reception. Please see it!

In order for it to show in more theaters please call up your local theaters and ask them to book it. Then chat it up with friends, family, local community groups and get them to go. The better the film does, the more theaters it'll show in! Find out more about where RESTREPO is showing by finding them on Facebook.

RESTREPO is a feature-length documentary that chronicles the deployment of a platoon of U.S. soldiers in Afghanistan’s Korengal Valley. The movie focuses on a remote 15-man outpost, “Restrepo”, named after a platoon medic who was killed in action. It was considered one of the most dangerous postings in the U.S. military. This is an entirely experiential film: the cameras never leave the valley; there are no interviews with generals or diplomats. The only goal is to make viewers feel as if they have just been through a 90-minute deployment. This is war, full stop. The conclusions are up to you.

See The Trailer

Directors Statement
The war in Afghanistan has become highly politicized, but soldiers rarely take part in that discussion. Our intention was to capture the experience of combat, boredom and fear through the eyes of the soldiers themselves. Their lives were our lives: we did not sit down with their families, we did not interview Afghans, we did not explore geopolitical debates. Soldiers are living and fighting and dying at remote outposts in Afghanistan in conditions that few Americans back home can imagine. Their experiences are important to understand, regardless of one’s political beliefs. Beliefs are a way to avoid looking at reality. This is reality.

~Tim Hetherington and Sebastian Junger

Galisteo Rodeo

2010-07-18T07:57:00.000-07:00

Photo courtesy of Cowboy Up! participant and photographer Keith Coronel.

Following another great session with our combat warriors, Johnny, Sterling and Keith we headed out to the Galisteo Rodeo where we were guests of Amy Sena Rogers. Amy and her family have been producing what is probably the best little rodeo in the USA for 39 years. One of our staff Carl Hawkins of Hawkins Chuckwagon fame provided a delicious smoked brisket for sandwiches while Nancy De Santis made her grandma's redcabbage coleslaw. Rick, daughter Cris and Teal Hawkins tended the grill with hot-dogs and we didn't run out of sweet tea until the end of the day. Several of the contestants stopped by to say hello to our group which included the Director of the New Mexico Wounded Warrior Project, Terri Kreuger and her husband Dave, Cowboy Up! instructors Wes Studi and his wife his wife Mora, Mike Housholder, Thomas Wingate, Kenny Tomlinson and Brenda Niekirk. Silver and Saddle maker extraorinaire Clint Mortenson and Amanda Lange,Bonanza Creek Ranch Manager Steve Price and Jacinda Witt and fresh off of the Cowboys and Aliens set, lead wrangler Ed Pickard. From the Governors Rodeo Council Debbie & Bobby Borrego stopped by to see who was screaming their lungs out for daughter Shania as she competed in both breakaway roping and barrel racing...well, it was us! With the US and Military Order of the Purple Heart flags flying above our tent we all agreed that the highlight of the day was when 4 young "mutton busters", spurs, chaps and all, walked up to our combat warriors and one by one stretched a hand out and said " thank you for your service. sir".

Photo courtesy of our good friend, photographer and author of "Making a Hand", Gene Peach. Thanks for stopping by!

Moon

2010-07-11T08:16:00.000-07:00

Ivan, is one of our earlier Horses for Heroes- participants who since we got him horseback has worked with us on spring brandings, fall gathers and who Cowboy'd UP! even getting his own horse. In fact Ivan's motivation and love of ranching and the cowboy way inspired in many ways what would take us from simple horse therapy to what has become our Cowboy UP! program.
Moon seen here in this picture has made full circle and is now here as our newest program horse generously donated by Ivan who is now working with champion cutting horses while he attends university.
Veterans helping veterans is a characteristic of what we do. It is the cowboy way! Thanks Ivan!

July 20th Zia Gives Back and to Cowboy Up!

2010-07-06T07:50:00.000-07:00

Dear friends,

Please mark your calendars for July 20th, 2010 as Zia Diner will be donating 10% of their profits from 7am-10pm that day to our Horses for Heroes - Cowboy Up! Program.

Please help make the day's profits as big as possible by eating at Zia Diner that day and by spreading the word to everyone you know: e-mail your friends, post it on your website, or send it in your newsletters.

Many thanks!
Rick & Nancy

Zia Diner is located at:
326 South Guadalupe Street
Santa Fe, NM 87501-2649
(505) 988-7008
www.ziadiner.com

Happy 4th of July!

2010-07-04T17:13:00.000-07:00

Kristy & Lacey Reunited

2010-06-27T17:30:00.000-07:00

Lacey arrived safe and sound on Friday Night all because of this fine man here, Mr. Kevin Holland.

Kevin took excellent care of transporting Lacey along with this mare and foal just before heading to Utah that afternoon. He is the most kind, caring person we are proud to call our friend. If you are looking for professional service to transport your horses, Kevin is your man - just contact us and we will put you in touch with him!

Lacey having breakfast just before ma'ma arrives to see her.

Kristy was nervous Lacey wouldn't remember her, but her mind was put at ease when Lacey bowed her head to accept a kiss like she always had, while Kristy's grandchildren look on.

Here Kristy is signing Lacey's name to her grandson who attends Santa Fe School for the Deaf...

"Comrades in arms" ~ Rick and Kristy as they take some time to walk Lacey up to say goodbye to her traveling partners.

Today we transported Lacey to her new home on the Rio Grande...

Lacey having a good roll while she awaits her ma'ma...

Reunited once again, the end to a wonderful beginning!

Welcome home!

Kristy & Lacey

2010-06-24T13:14:00.000-07:00

In between all the time preparing for the parade and rodeo these last couple of weeks, we have had something big going on in the background...

Ten days ago we received a call from one of our program partners, U.S. Army Wounded Warriors. Christin Barden with AW2 called us to tell us she had another Veteran ready to participate in our Cowboy UP! program and that she even had her own horse! There was one small detail though, "Lacey", a beautiful Appaloosa was in Indiana, and that because of her owners injuries Kristy herself was unable to make the drive to pick her up. Although Lacey's home here is all ready set up, The transport costs were just out of reach to get Lacey to NM, so Christin called Rick stating, "I knew if there is anyone who has a resource it would be you." Well, Rick worked straight away with putting a call out to the horse owner community. A former Team Roper, Kevin Holland responded. Rick briefed Kevin on the situation and he said he would be coming our way and agreed to haul Lacey.

Back up a month or so... While at the Red Cross Breakfast where Rick was awarded his Real Heroes Award, we met Charlotte Lane of Brycon Construction and in charge of their good deed program. Brycon wanted to help out some way with our program. Well one thing lead to another and Rick thought it would be a good deed to bring Lacey home, so he contacted Charlotte and asked her that with the money they would have donated to our program to see if they would be interested in an even better deed - Brycon agreed, and with their support we booked Kevin to bring Lacey home!

Kevin picked up Lacey on Tuesday and have been making their way across country. At a rest stop along the way Kevin took the above picture with his cell phone and sent it last night - have another look, ain't she pretty?

We are excited for Kristy to be reunited soon with Lacey. Kristy credits Lacey as being her therapy - her face just lights up talking about her!

NOTE: Staff Sgt. Kristy La France was wounded when an Improvised Explosive Device blew up her convoy while serving in Iraq in 2004-5.

Stay tuned!

Rodeo de Santa Fe Opening Ceremony & Parade

2010-06-24T13:12:00.000-07:00

For the 2nd year in a row we were honored to ride as a group for the opening ceremonies for the Rodeo de Santa Fe where they dedicated the night to our combat warriors. The crowd was wowed and gave us a standing ovation when they announced our group including Cowboy Up! instructor and film actor Wes Studi. Riding "Moon" one of our donated program horses, Wes was a crowd favorite waving his hat in the air and riding at the lead of the wagon and outriders.

A very special thanks to Harry Toulimas and his Rio Grand Carriage Works Team of Belgian Drafts that carried our precious cargo.

Thank you to Kyle Mascarenas for taking the following three pictures.

Rodeo de Santa FeTomorrow Night!

2010-06-22T21:32:00.000-07:00

Wednesday June 23rd, 2010 7p.m.

We are raffling off the trophy buckle made by the Great Clint Mortenson of Mortenson Silver & Saddles. So please come to the Opening Night of Rodeo de Santa Fe!

We will be riding in with our Wagon of Veterans, our 4-H Outriders and Cowboy Up! Instructors as we did in this past Saturday's Parade in downtown Santa Fe - we took home a trophy like last year - Congrats to our 4-H kids! and many thanks to John Sharp and his team of American Cream Draft horses (the breed of draft horse that can claim to be native to the United States).

Instructor Trish putting on the final touches!

Run 4 Vets ~ Neal Riley Up and Running!

2010-06-14T07:43:00.000-07:00

Our Horses For Heroes, Cowboy Up! medic Neal Riley runs in the "Water is Life Run" on Sept 11, 2010. This 30-mile ultramarathon is hosted by the Hopi Nation on their ancient running trails. All sponsorship funds go to: "Horses For Heroes-New Mexico, Inc. Cowboy Up!"

Please check out his blog at: Run 4 Vets and follow him as he trains for this run - Many thanks Neal - Go For It!!!

Run4Vets from John Arnold on Vimeo.

Sunset from the Crossed Arrows Ranch ~ Home of Horses For Heroes - NM, Inc.

2010-06-09T14:13:00.000-07:00

"Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away." ~Author unknown

Fallen Warrior Ramon Montes

2010-06-03T06:56:00.000-07:00

Ramon was raised by his father, Roberto, who was a horse trainer - thus one of Ramon's first loves was horses.

A WWII Veteran, who saw heavy combat, he recalled the experiences of the war throughout his life. In his last days, our father saw the magic of horses in his dreams to give him comfort. As his own father would say to him as a child, "Montate!": "Mount!"; and, so he did.

In lieu of flowers, the family would ask that you send donations to:
Horses for Heroes - New Mexico, Inc.
P.O. BOX 1882, Santa Fe, NM 87504.

e-mail for info: ramonsdream@horsesforheroes.org or visit: http://www.horsesforheroes.blogspot.com

Horses for Heroes - New Mexico, Cowboy Up! is a non- profit horse therapy wellness program run by cowboy veterans based in Santa Fe free to Veterans and active military who have sustained physical injuries or combat trauma during their time serving our country. They are proudly endorsed and partnered with the Military Order of the Purple Heart NM.

"When you can hear a horses heart you can hear the universe and you know where you belong and your place in it!"
~Rick Iannucci Executive Director Horses for Heroes-New Mexico, Inc.

Opening Night at Rodeo de Santa Fe, New Mexico - Proud To Wear Purple! June 23rd , 2010

2010-05-26T13:22:00.000-07:00

Please mark your calendars! Wednesday June 23rd, 2010. 7p.m.

The Opening Night of Rodeo de Santa Fe will be honoring our Veterans through our Horses For Heroes - NM Cowboy Up! program. We are "Proud to wear Purple" to represent our partnership with The Military Order of the Purple Heart, NM and to honor our wounded warriors and all Veterans who have served, and who are serving our country.

We will be riding in for the Opening Ceremonies and National Anthem which immediately follows the Grand Entry - some of our Horses For Heroes Instructors and Turquoise Trail Wranglers 4-H Club will be riding in as "outriders" with our horse drawn wagon filled with our Veterans.

Also of note is that we will be raffling off a Horses For Heroes-Cowboy Up! buckle, specially made by Clint Mortenson of Mortenson Silver and Saddles. So please come to enjoy the fun and don't forget to Wear Your Purple!

Letter From Neal Riley

2010-05-11T15:39:00.000-07:00

Welcome to www.Run4Vets.com! As a U.S. Army Special Forces Medic who served in Operation Iraqi Freedom, I understand the enormous struggles confronting our combat veterans as they return home after service overseas. Many veterans return to civilian life with physical and psychological wounds. On the battlefield I treated the physical wounds of combat. But healing the psychological wounds from combat trauma can be a life-long process.

That’s why I’ve teamed up with Santa Fe rancher, retired U.S. Marshal, and Special Forces veteran, Rick Iannucci, to raise funds for our non-profit organization, “Horses For Heroes-New Mexico, Inc. Cowboy Up!”. Rick and our crew of volunteers are working to assist in healing our OIF OEF veterans experiencing combat trauma. As the program medic I have seen Rick and our dedicated volunteer staff work with veterans and I believe in the healing power of our program. As Rick explains, “The cowboy culture is parallel to the warrior culture.” Rick points out that horses have the ability to sense our deepest feelings and they reflect that back to us. In a way, horses can help direct people back onto a path of peace and balance.

As a non-profit “Horses For Heroes –New Mexico, Inc. Cowboy Up!” relies entirely on donations to meet its operational expenses. To raise funds and awareness for this non-profit, I will compete in an ultra-marathon and ask sponsors to donate much-needed funds to help support this effort to heal our veterans. The run that I have chosen is a 30-mile race on an ancient Hopi trail through the heart of Hopi country in Polacca, AZ. The “Paatuwaqatsi Run” or “Water is Life Run”, leads runners up switchbacks of high desert mesas, down into arroyos, and through the Hopi village of Walpi. Accomplished Hopi runner, Bucky Preston, founded the race. Preston explains: “Putting Hopi life values and teaching at the forefront is the purpose of the run.” The Hopi regard running as a practical necessity as well as a rejuvenating and spiritual experience. As a staff member of “Horses For Heroes-New Mexico, Inc. Cowboy Up!”, I hope to learn from the ancient Hopi perspective on running and pass along what I learn.

“Horses for Heroes-New Mexico, Inc. Cowboy Up!” also recognizes the enormous sacrifice and contribution made by Native Americans: from the Navajo Code Talkers of World War II to the soldiers serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. And the largest percentage of Native American soldiers serving today come from the state of New Mexico.

We welcome you to become a part of the “Horses For Heroes- New Mexico, Inc. Cowboy Up!” effort to help our veterans who have risked everything for our country. To donate by credit card, click on the donate button. Donations can also be sent by check to: “Horses For Heroes-New Mexico, Inc, Cowboy Up!” PO Box 1882, Santa Fe, NM 87504.

“Horses For Heroes-New Mexico, Inc. Cowboy Up!” is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization. 100% of all donations go directly to support New Mexico veterans. More information can be found on the web at: www.HorsesForHeroes.org