MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. -- Once a month, Camp Pendleton Single Marine Program participants and others volunteer to spend some quality time with the horses kept at Stepp Stables.
“This could be considered a great learning experience for Marines and sailors who have not had an opportunity to be around horses,” said Grace Lara, Stepp Stables assistant manager. “Our horses love the extra attention and pampering that this program provides.”
The morning begins with the volunteers receiving a general safety brief and a few short lessons in handling the horses.
“I’ve never worked with horses before,” said Cpl. Cassandra Gomez, warehouse clerk, Combat Logistics Regiment 15. “Being around them and taking care of them makes me feel nice and calm.”
The Camp Pendleton’s Stepp Stables houses more than 40 horses owned by both Marine Corps Community Services and private parties. Additional space is also available for boarders, military personnel and their family members who own horses and would like to stable them for a monthly fee.
To volunteer, contact your local Single Marine Program office. For information on the Stepps Stables, call the assistant manager at (760) 725-5094.