Operation Remount: Healing for Veterans through Equestrian Therapy
JM, Wyoming – Anniversaries can evoke memories, yet for many veterans, especially those dealing with mental health issues, they can be particularly challenging.
A program in Wyoming aims to tackle these hurdles by pairing veterans with Wild Mustangs in a unique healing method.
Veterans typically face higher rates of PTSD, depression, and anxiety compared to civilians, as noted in data from the U.S. covering the period from 2001 to 2022. Alarmingly, around 6,000 veterans take their own lives each year.
Statistics reveal that about 7% of veterans will experience PTSD in their lifetimes, according to the U.S. Veterans Affairs Bureau.
In a small community in JM, Wyoming, the nonprofit Operation Remount Corporation provides equestrian therapy, not only for veterans and first responders but also for Mustangs.
Karen Alexander, who co-founded Operation Remount, explains how some Mustangs have faced their own traumas and anxieties, making it a case of shared healing. “These are Mustangs that have been adopted multiple times but were never accepted. When they first arrive, they are often scared of humans. It’s wonderful to see them begin to trust,” she shared.
Veteran Sean Walker is participating in this year’s Operation Remount. He describes the need for this experience after his military service as essential, noting that he feels a deep connection to the horse named Spirit.
Having served two tours each in Iraq and Bosnia, Walker has seen significant change in Spirit within just a few weeks. “We call him a permanent spiritual wind,” he remarked. “He probably taught me more than I’ve taught him.” Walker admits that transitioning back to civilian life post-military has presented its own challenges, particularly in terms of mental health.
The program recently added a red cabin to better accommodate those involved in the six-week course. This addition honors Marine Sgt. BJ Shepperson, who had struggled with reintegration to civilian life in Wyoming.
Shepperson’s brother expressed gratitude for the positive impact the program has on veterans, sharing how much BJ loved horses.
Program leaders are striving to construct more cabins, which would allow additional veterans and first responders to spend the night and deepen their therapeutic connections with the horses. “It’s like reconnecting with something you lost,” Walker commented, highlighting the importance of these bonds.
Furthermore, graduates of the course can maintain their wild horses, with sessions planned for both spring and fall. Currently, the Operation Remount team is working on constructing indoor facilities to ensure the program remains available year-round, even during Wyoming’s tough winters.
