Fifteen veterans from various military branches participated in the eighth-annual Trail to Zero horseback ride through Manhattan, organized by the equine therapy nonprofit BraveHearts. The 20-mile journey, lasting over eight hours, aimed to raise awareness about veteran suicide, honoring those lost with ribbons on the horses’ manes bearing their names and service branches. The ride started at Ground Zero, passed through Times Square and Central Park, and ended back at One World Trade Center, symbolizing the nearly 20 veterans who die by suicide daily.

BraveHearts uses equine therapy to help veterans cope with trauma and transition to civilian life, offering a unique form of healing that many participants credit with saving their lives. Riders like Ellie Schlotz and Ryan Ohrmundt emphasized the deep personal connection to the cause and the therapeutic benefits of working with horses, which extend beyond traditional treatments for PTSD and other combat-related challenges. The event also serves to educate the public on the often-overlooked power of equine therapy in suicide prevention and veteran recovery.