Our Veterans Mean the World to Us!

Dick Chase has been volunteering with us for about six years, starting as a client  seeking help for depression and PTSD. According to Dick, his therapist at the time, Mady, was relentless in recommending he “just try” equine assistance therapy at Rhythm of the Rein. Because he was sick of listening to Mady’s persistent urging, he thankfully gave in and his life has completely changed. Over the years Dick had been adamant that his connection with the horses and the wonderful people at Rhythm of the Rein  saved his life. That, and Mady! Dick is one of our best success stories and an invaluable volunteer.

Long time veteran volunteer Ernie and Tango’s Topper.

A VETERAN’S MEMORIAL TO A VERY SPECIAL HORSE –
TANGO’S TOPPER

I remember the smell of the wool blanket in boot camp. The smell of the chow hall food. The smell of the gas in the gas chamber as we took off our masks. The smell of the dirty water at the pier in Norfolk where the aircraft carriers were docked. The smell of the aircraft engines going to full afterburner just before they took off. The smell of the catapult as they left. The smell of the rubber tires as they landed back on board. The smell of the guns that fired and the smell of the cartridges that ejected the bombs they carried. The smell of the dirty bars I have been in around the world.  
 I remember the smell of a tank trail. The smell of the diesel fuel from a duce and a half ( 2 1/2 ton truck ) or a five ton or tank as it started and went down the road. The smell of a ruck sack on my back and the smell of an M16 as it fired on target from my hands. The smell of a GP medium ( small tent ) that I slept in. The morning dew on the grass as I woke. The smell of a tank turret I climbed in to repair. The smell of the metal, hydraulics, electronics that were inside. I remember smells.
 I remember the smell of a friend I met at your ranch. I remember the smell of his coat. The smell of the stall he was in as I brushed him down and cleaned his hooves. The smell of the rope that I lead him around the barn with. The smell of the dirt in the barn as we walked around. I remember smells, I remember him. I have not forgotten Topper and will not. There are two horses that will stay with me forever. The other I call Duffis ( Stormy ). 
I am looking forward to the time when I can return to your ranch. I have not forgotten the smells.  I have not forgotten your ranch.

~R Ryder