HORSE POWER: Nonprofit Saddles in Service gives veterans a new purpose

To the east of Greybull lies the Flitner Ranch, a storied land of rugged alpine terrain, desert rock, and green valleys that is woven into the history of Wyoming. In the summers, amid the natural flurry of ranch activity, you may hear of a small group riding through the river valley or mountains led by Tom Bercher, a U.S. Army veteran. This is not your average pack ride, nor are Bercher’s companions your average visitors, or even travelling cowboys come to stay and lend their bodies to the work needing done. Bercher’s groups are comprised of veterans, active-duty military, and first responders suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and these weeklong outings serve as the capstone to a program with the non-profit organization Saddles In Service (SIS).