Women Veteran Retreat March 12, 2025
We had beautiful weather all weekend for our veterans and equine partners. Day 1 opened with participants meeting their equine partners as they arrived and prepared to experience their first retreat day. Later in the day, the veterans got to experience being at Liberty with 20 year old American Paint, River. Followed by hands in time in the stalls grooming and connecting, as well as art activity painting the covers of our journals. . Day 1 ended at the farm at 4:45 and we all traveled to the beach house for dinner and relaxation. Day 2 including more time with equine partners, art, knot tying, and leading our equine. Day 3 began with a great breakfast and time on the beach. Once at the farm, the day included grooming, mounted activity, cart driving, and an engaging obstacle course.Β
Β
Our closing ceremony was highlighted with a special guest, Major General Phillip McGhee USA (Retired) and his lovely wife Candy, to assist with presentation of a Vietnam War 50 year commemorative pin and certificate to one of the participants. MG McGhee spoke of the positive changes that have taken place in the Army to ensure military sexual assault/abuse is properly and promptly reported to ensure expediency of cases by outside command investigators.
Β
All participants departed the retreat with several takeaways and great learning. They left peaceful, calm, emboldened, self-regulated, and full of hope for the future.Β
Β
As part of our continuity of care, we will be checking in with each one of them to see how they are progressing on the road to resilience.
