‘Vets to Cowboys’ Empowers Veterans to Embrace the Cowboy Way of Life

Co-founders Jeremy and Heather Clark share how Vets to Cowboys helps U.S. veterans build new skills, find community in cattle ranching, and discover new opportunities in agriculture.

GRAND BAY, ALABAMA (RFD NEWS) — Agriculture is becoming a meaningful path for many military veterans transitioning back to civilian life, offering both career opportunities and a sense of purpose. A new program aims to strengthen that connection by pairing veterans with experienced cattle producers for mentorship and hands-on ranching experience.

Jeremy and Heather Clark, founders of Vets to Cowboys, joined us on Monday’s Market Day Report to discuss their mission. Jeremy Clark, a retired U.S. Army Ranger, and Heather Clark launched the initiative alongside their cattle operation, C-4 Cattle Co.

In their conversation with RFD NEWS, the couple shared that their ranching journey began with a focus on raising cattle for their family and to meet their son’s dietary needs, while also recognizing the importance of encouraging younger generations to enter the ranching industry. That experience led to the realization that agriculture could provide a powerful outlet for veterans seeking a new direction after military service.

Through Vets to Cowboys, the Clarks connect veterans with seasoned cattlemen who provide mentorship and practical ranching opportunities. The program also emphasizes mental health support, highlighting the therapeutic benefits of working with livestock and spending time outdoors.

The Clarks say the program has received strong feedback from participants and supporters. They are now working on fundraising efforts to expand the initiative, including plans to purchase a mobile facility to bring training opportunities to veterans across the country.

LEARN MORE: www.bombassbeef.com/vetstocowboysinc

Related Stories
The Farmer Veteran Coalition is honoring those who served while reflecting on the unity that followed the attacks.
The “100 Hires in 100 Days” initiative has already drawn more than 1,000 applicants.
SharkFarmer’s next “Man on the Street,” Tyler Froberg, says blending education and entertainment effectively tells agriculture’s story and bridges farmers with consumers.
Veteran and independent trucker Lewie Pugh explains how the Freedom Haulers Initiative aims to help military veterans transition into civilian trucking careers.
The Virginia Farm Bureau highlights how Joseph Bates transformed a small herd into a thriving operation.
USDA is expanding opportunities for military-affiliated applicants through an enhanced partnership with the Department of War’s SkillBridge Program and a new “100 Hires in 100 Days” initiative.

Marion is a digital content manager for RFD News and FarmHER + RanchHER. She started working for Rural Media Group in May 2022, bringing a decade of digital experience in broadcast media and some cooking experience to the team.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Ag Law expert Roger McEowen explains the latest WOTUS developments and their implications for agricultural water management.
NCGA Chief Economist Krista Swanson discusses their new study comparing U.S. and Brazilian input costs and its impact on domestic corn competitiveness.
August data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor & Statistics show continued inflationary pressure, with energy and transportation costs playing a significant role in both consumer and producer prices.
Lower corn and cotton supplies strengthened price expectations, while soybeans gained from stronger exports and wheat remained comparatively steady.
The Internal Revenue Service issued updated emissions-rate guidance on September 8, while the Department of Energy revised its 45ZCF-GREET model.
Drought is worsening across the Southern Plains as winter wheat producers prepare for planting
Rural Lifestyle & Entertainment Shows
Opry Live is the premier weekly broadcast and livestream of the Grand Ole Opry, featuring country music superstars, legends, and rising talent performing on stage in Nashville.
Brought to you by Gus Arrendale & Springer Mountain Farms, join dynamic bluegrass duo Dailey & Vincent as they welcome scores of fabulous bluegrass, country, and gospel music acts as special guests. Loads of laughs, your favorite guests galore, and lots of good times are guaranteed. Don’t miss all the fun!
Twisted Skillet brings a straightforward, hands-on approach to kitchen television, rooted in food and fire. Hosted by Texas chef Sean Koehler, the series explores open-fire outdoor cooking techniques, regional ingredients, and the people who raise, prepare, and inspire the food found across America.
Enjoy traditional country music from modern-day troubadours The Malpass Brothers. Each episode stars the brother duo of Chris & Taylor Malpass along with a featured celebrity guest– and loads of clever humor.
Join popular polka performer Mollie Busta as she hosts the weekly “Mollie B Polka Party” on RFD Network! The one-hour program features the nation’s top polka bands and a wide variety of ethnic styles, recorded on location at music festivals across the country.