Veterans Finding Solace on the Farm

In Texas, veterans are finding that farming is a good way to happiness. Frank McCaffrey reports on how veterans are finding solace on Texas farms.

Enrique Gonzales served in the late 1960s and early 70s, seeing action in Vietnam. According to him, “I think that military training helps a lot in whatever field anybody goes into. If he is a veteran, I guarantee you, in my opinion, that helps a lot.”

Ricardo Pena says that U.S. military training in the field, in such places as Vietnam, helps with farming. He adds that it is beneficial for veterans who want to get over their combat experiences. He states, “They want to stay away from the people. So they decided, ‘you know what, we’re going to go, we’re going to work the land’... keep their mind off the PTSD.”

Pena says that any veteran who wants help with setting up a farm should call their county Veterans Office for guidance.

Related Stories
RFD News correspondent Frank McCaffrey reports from Texas on the ongoing water dispute and its implications for U.S. farmers.
Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller today unveiled a bold plan to protect the nation’s prime farm and ranchland from the rapid spread of data centers.
Brent Graves, auctioneer and mentor, shares his journey supporting youth in agriculture, livestock competitions, and how he is turning junior livestock auctions into a classroom for youth in agriculture.
Reducing mental stress and focusing on controllable actions can improve decision-making in high-pressure environments, according to Hollywood actor and former Calif Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger.
As the new year begins, both farmers and rural families are taking stock of their finances and planning ahead for 2026.
Rising production underscores the importance of marketing discipline and margin protection as milk supplies expand.

Rural Lifestyle & Entertainment Shows
Join host Allen Treadwell and the Hayden Outdoors crew plus landowners across the country as we bring you exciting adventures on the land with the most amazing properties for sale and learn what it means to broker these magnificent properties.
Discover the untold stories of farm families across the United States as they face tough decisions, adapt in unexpected ways, and fight to secure a future — for the next generation to carry on the farm. This unscripted documentary-style TV show follows the lives of ambitious farmers from diverse backgrounds across the US, highlighting the challenges, triumphs, and unique stories of these farmers as they navigate the world of agriculture.
Strong rural traditions, religion, cowboy boots, and technology collide in “Cowboy Church” — and taking part is as easy as turning on the TV! Airing Sundays on RFD Network.
Experts from the University of Nebraska Medical Center discuss health and how it impacts farmers, ranchers, and rural Americans on this special LIVE call-in show.
“Positively Paula,” is a nationally-syndicated lifestyle/food show that invites viewers to share a moment with their friend: Paula Deen, who we know and love.