Gold Star

Gold Star, affectionately known as "Jelly", is a heartwarming addition to the Operation Wild Horse program by Veterans R&R. This six-year-old Palomino Gelding originally hails from the Palomino Buttes Herd Management Area in Oregon, where he was adopted in September 2018. His journey to Veterans R&R is one filled with purpose and serendipity.

Gold Star's path to becoming part of this therapeutic equine program began when he was purchased at a horse auction by a Marine's father, who was seeking a swift horse. However, Gold Star proved to be more of a gentle, easy-going companion rather than the speedster his original owner had hoped for. Recognizing Gold Star's unique temperament, the owner sought a more fitting role for him, one that could honor his son's service.

It was through this search that Gold Star met Jimmy Welch, President of Veterans R&R, and Patti Gruber, Program Director for Operation Wild Horse. Seeing the potential in Gold Star to provide comfort and healing to veterans, they welcomed him into their program. Now, Gold Star serves as a symbol of peace and resilience, helping veterans find solace and connection through horse-assisted therapy, in honor of the Marine whose father brought him into this new, meaningful life.