If any state in the union is synonymous with horses, it’s Kentucky. Aside from its lush bluegrass and its hearty bourbon, its ability to breed prize-winning chargers and feature them in its annual backyard spectacular — the springtime derby at Churchill Downs in Louisville — is singular. And enormously celebrated.

Lesser known, however, are its other steeds. The feral stallions and mares that roam freely in the eastern portion of the state, through the Appalachian Mountain chain, and often times, into the frightened purview of a gun-wielding landowner.

Such was the case, unfortunately, for a herd of the liberated trotters recently. Three were found shot to death in a sparsely-populated corner of Johnson County, without no one to claim responsibility. Thankfully, there was a silver lining — and one shinier than anyone could ever have imagined.

Three of the seven horses that escaped the deadly gunfire were rescued by the Kentucky Humane Society, and now reside at the Active Heroes military family retreat in Shephardsville. It’s a 147-acre facility that offers a tranquil environment for military veterans (and their families) struggling with transitioning into civilian life, PTSD and other hardships. Five days and five nights — all for free.

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Fostering the horses serves a dual purpose — interacting with veterans will help heal the traumatized horses.

As for the veterans, the interaction with the animals is therapeutic.

This is the first group of horses that Active Heroes has fostered through the program.

They will eventually be put up for adoption.

Here’s footage of the broncos entering the retreat via a trailer ride:

For more information on the program, click here.