After interviewing Veterans in the Horses & Heroes program, Diane Rodriguez wrote in her article The Healing Power of Horse Therapy for PTSD, “People who live in a state of hyper-vigilance can feel threatened by everyday events, and horses live in a similar state. Much like military groups, horses are loyal and stick together for safety.” These are just a few of the many aspects that create a connection between a Veteran and a horse. The McCormick Research Institute horses are quite unique and special, and one in particular has been mounted by individuals of every conceivable disability throughout his life. Eight weeks into the program, Veterans begin working with other Veterans, performing basic drill team movements at both a walk and a trot with no fear and no trepidation. They ride in the Drill Team, where there is a sense of purpose and connection. More than once, we have heard a Veteran testify, “Coming off of my couch, out of my wheelchair, and representing Veterans at rodeos motivates me so much. I had almost committed suicide, but I wouldn’t think of it now. I never want to miss all this!”