The vast majority of these are worthy and noble endeavors, showing veterans their service is appreciated. And yet, far too many veterans struggle with the transition to civilian life. With all these organizations offering help, how can this be?

As we moved across the corral towards the children I briefly looked around to see which child I wanted to work with and was quickly reminded of my intent, "let go" and when I did the child chose me.

When we, as a town, as a state, as a nation, embrace our returning warriors and offer them the support of programs like "Hooves for Heroes," their lives change in profound ways. I know because it happened to me.

"There is something about the outside of a horse that's good for the inside of a man," a quote by Winston Churchill, is the sentiment this nonprofit lives by.