Military And Veterans
Moulton advocates for veteran's services during visit at Ironstone Farm
Rep. Moulton discusses the future of veteran care at Ironstone Farm, emphasizing the need for community support
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✍️By ZRIntel Editorial Team📍Andover, MA
In a heartfelt visit to Challenge Unlimited at Ironstone Farm in Andover, Massachusetts, U.S. Representative Seth Moulton, a Marine Corps veteran, expressed his support for local veteran services, particularly equine therapy programs. The visit came at a crucial time, as Moulton addressed growing concerns over potential cuts to veterans services due to changes in federal funding priorities. Surrounded by veterans and a horse named Jack, Moulton took the opportunity to advocate for the continued support of programs that offer veterans a path to healing and recovery. Ironstone Farm provides equine therapy for veterans, helping them process their emotions and cope with the challenges that often accompany life after military service. For many veterans, this therapy is a vital tool in managing PTSD, anxiety, and other mental health struggles. Moulton, who served four tours in Iraq, understands firsthand the difficulties that veterans face when returning home. He emphasized the importance of community-driven efforts to fill the gaps left by potential cuts in federal funding. 'There are a lot of causes in the community that need help right now,' Moulton stated. 'If you want programs like this, you have to pay for them.' His message resonated with the veterans at Ironstone, who have seen the positive effects of the program on their own lives. One participant, Sonya Treadwell, a 65-year-old veteran, shared how the program has helped her manage the symptoms of PTSD. Treadwell, who has been part of the program for over two years, described Jack, her equine companion, as a calming influence in her life. 'He just calmed me right down,' Treadwell said, explaining how interacting with the horses has helped her cope with emotional struggles. Veteran Barry Boykins, 76, also spoke about the grounding effect that working with horses has on participants. 'Every day is day one with a horse,' he noted, referring to the learning process and the relationship-building that occurs when working with the animals. Moultons visit also highlighted the challenges veterans face when they return to civilian life, particularly when it comes to accessing the care and support they need. With budget cuts looming, Moulton expressed concern that essential services for veterans could be jeopardized. He reiterated his call for local organizations like Ironstone Farm to continue their work, even in the face of uncertain federal funding. Ironstone Farms employee, Dave McCann, who assists with the veterans' program, described the farm as a 'home away from home' for many of the veterans. McCann noted that the veterans form lasting bonds while participating in the equine therapy, providing them with a sense of community and belonging that is often missing from their post-service lives. Moulton concluded his visit by reaffirming his commitment to ensuring that veterans services remain a top priority. 'Programs like Ironstone are vital,' he said. 'They help save lives every single day. We need to ensure that veterans continue to have access to services that can help them thrive, not just survive.' His visit to the farm and his continued advocacy for veteran services underscore his dedication to improving the lives of those who have served the country.