‘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
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.
Today, we honor the courage, dedication, and service of the men and women of the United States Armed Forces by taking a closer look at their commitment and teamwork in action.

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:

The USDA is working with 14 different states, including Georgia, to develop and implement block grants to address the unique disaster recovery needs for each state.
The decline in production marks the second consecutive year of contraction in the U.S. turkey industry.
“Those could’ve easily been our beans going over there. It goes to show that if that opportunity is there, China would be willing to buy.”
We caught up with Karen Braun, Chief Market Analyst at Zaner Ag Hedge, at the Women in Agribusiness to discuss the data behind commodity trading.
Weston Brown joined us on Monday in the RFD-TV Studios in Nashville to share how he is preparing for the upcoming National FFA Convention & Expo.
Missouri Director of Agriculture Chris Chinn joined us Monday to share highlights from Secretary Brooke Rollins’ visit and her perspective on USDA’s new initiatives.
Rural Lifestyle & Entertainment Shows
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.
FarmHER + RanchHER on RFD-TV is working to change how people perceive a farmer by sharing the stories of the women who live and lead in agriculture.
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.
The affable and unassuming international singing star Daniel O’Donnell is one of Ireland’s best known performers – from Australia to Alaska.