‘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
Kubota Tractor Company President and Army National Guard Veteran Alex Woods discusses the company’s Military Appreciation Month initiatives and long-term support programs for veterans in agriculture.
Farmer and retired colonial Joe Ricker joined us to highlight Ag Safety Awareness Program Week, share his work supporting veterans and farmers, and offer guidance on making safety a year-round priority on the farm.
Reed Marcum started hosting a toy drive in 2015. Since then, he has distributed thousands of toys across his home state of Oklahoma and in Texas and Arkansas. Now serving in the Army, Reed’s family and local 4-H chapter are running the event.
The Tennessee Department of Agriculture is helping connect veterans with resources to pursue careers in farming and agriculture.
Once a year, Army crew chiefs and Black Hawk mechanics undergo live aerial gunnery training—loading, firing, and practicing the teamwork they’ll need in real missions.
Kubota President Alex Woods discusses the “Geared to Give” program, the company’s commitment to those who served, and how the initiative continues to grow and impact veterans.

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:

Farm Credit’s Christy Seyfert joined us to discuss the ag industry’s push for swift Farm Bill action as it heads toward a House vote.
Bridge payments are helping, but many producers still face losses and tight margins. AEM’s Curt Blades joins us to discuss how the current farm economy is pressuring equipment demand.
Feed demand and premiums drive growth for the crop
Purdue economist Dr. Joana Colussi discussed the U.S. and Brazil’s reliance on imported fertilizers and their impact on global food security amid rising input costs.
RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper joined us to discuss the proposed E15 amendment in the Farm Bill, industry reaction to the legislation, and the outlook for year-round E15 sales.
USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins plans a farm visit in Missouri, hinting at a possible fertilizer relief announcement on RFD-TV earlier this week. USDA also restructures its research infrastructure and launches new food-safety centers.
Rural Lifestyle & Entertainment Shows
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.
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!
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.
Celebrating 16 Consecutive Seasons on RFD Network! “The Penny Gilley Show,” starring “The Sweetheart of Country Music” herself, Penny Gilley.
SharkFarmer TV is the brainchild of Rob Sharkey, a 5th-generation farmer from Illinois. He shares the stories of incredible people in agriculture—both their successes and perhaps a few blunders along the way. You’ll see aerial footage of the field just as the drone crashes into a barn—and hear the story behind it all.