Horse Mounted Officers Entertain Veterans And Families

It was typical autumn weather for Washington, DC – crisp and cool and sunny – as families of recuperating veterans gathered at Walter Reed Army Medical Center to enjoy a pre-Halloween festival on Saturday, October 18th. The leaves were just starting to turn. 

Officers Jeff Giebel and  Barbara Blendy brought their horses, “Stonewall” and “Jack,” out to a nice large grassy spot for everyone to say hello, give a pat, feed a carrot, and even hop on the saddle for a short ride around the lawn.  All around us children were smiling, dressed in Halloween costumes.  There were princesses, bears, even a pink flamingo.

Helping the families of recuperating veterans to enjoy a harvest festival was both a pleasure and an honor.  Joining the officers to help with the horseback rides were HOOFS (Helping Out Our Friends in Stalls) volunteer James Watson, along with riding instructors from Rock Creek Park Horse Center, Nicky Beveridge and Brenda Gause.  Together, they provided over 75 rides for children ages two years old up to their teens.  Their horses maintained a sense of humor and really enjoyed the attention (especially being fed carrots). 

Although the officers didn't have time to actually go inside the mini haunted house, photographs revealed a pretty scary group of youth dressed as ghoulish doctors.  Darryl Lavoie, a soon-to-be-released resident of Walter Reed, was very generous with his photography and brought dozens of photos from the day to the USPP HMP Rock Creek Park Stables. The photos revealed that all of the activities, such as face painting, were perfect for an autumn festival, and that the children were really happy.  There was also delicious food, barbeque sandwiches, and an excellent Waldorf salad. 

Although most of the veterans themselves stayed inside, their families certainly enjoyed the day outdoors.  Everyone was in a festive mood, especially the horses. It was truly fulfilling to witness how much joy these horses bring the children and families.  They always touch people at a very deep level.  It was especially warming to witness the enjoyment of retired officer James Watson and “Bullet”, who really handles the children well.  He is the most efficient at mounting the little ones, and a great help.  He makes sure every child has had a turn.

The horses of Rock Creek Stables will always be proud and honored to be of service to the recuperating veterans and their families.  They look forward to ways that they can continue to be of service in the future.