In recognition of the long and illustrious relationship between the horse and the six branches of the American military -- the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, Coast Guard and National Guard -- The Trail of Painted Ponies, in partnership with Horses4Heroes and TAPS (the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors), announced the nine finalists and has extended the voting through Oct. 31.
Re-enacting military horse maneuvers
The competition is a national art competition to creatively showcase the special relationship – past and present, on the battlefield and in ceremonial and therapeutic programs - between the horse and the American military.
The competition, launched over the summer, is a national art competition to creatively showcase the special relationship – past and present, on the battlefield and in ceremonial and therapeutic programs - between the horse and the American military.
Here is a description of the nine finalists. To see a drawing of each horse or to vote
Always Faithful by Kelly Kurtz - a tribute to Sergeant Reckless, an amazing mare who served with the U.S. Marine Corps during the Korean War and received multiple honors for her courage. She was not just a horse, but a valued soldier. A Marine. Semper Fidelis.
ParaTrotter by Kelly Kurtz - Donning paratrooper rigging and basic tactical supplies, this whimsical Pony has taken a leap with his airborne comrades through the skies to defend honor and country.
Call of Honor by Lorna Matsuda - In the likeness of Klinger, the celebrated Caisson Platoon horse, this Pony exemplifies the pride, courage and honor of the American Army, and remembers those who paid the ultimate price for freedom.
Past and Present by Kathy Morawski - Inspired by military memorabilia belonging to her father who served his country and this artist’s love for armored horses, this Pony was designed to look like it was made from pewter, with dimensional detail and enameling added.
Charging through History Julie Karnath - This Pony depicts the traditional cavalry horse, tacked up and ready to ride with a McClellan saddle, bridle with a military bit, a martingale and other military accessories.
Revolutionary by Laura Robinson - A tribute to George Washington’s trusty steed “Blue Skin,” a horse that served fearlessly through gun and cannon fire, reminding us that our country’s greatness and independence was carried on the back of a horse.
Continental Soldier by Tesha Hammonds - A mounted Patriot, carrying the first American flag with 13 stars, a bugle and sabre in hand, symbolizes the greatness of our soldiers, and their equally committed war horses.
Unseen Hero by Laura Loitsch - "Although my recognition has not been significant, I hold no grudge for I know in my heart and the hearts of my riders, that I am a hero. An Unseen Hero."
Independent Inspiration by Aloma Wolfington - Gathering significant events that make up our country’s proud history into a colorful collage, this Pony celebrates the moments that remind us just how great our nation is.
For 10 years, The Trail of Painted Ponies has celebrated the horse as a source of artistic inspiration, while creating the most beloved horse collectible in America today: Painted Pony collectible figurines. It has sponsored numerous art competitions, the most recent in partnership with the American Paint Horse Association and the Appaloosa Horse Club.
Horses4Heroes is a non-profit organization based in Las Vegas with 250 centers in 44 states that offers health and wellness equestrian programs for active duty military personnel, veterans and their families.
The Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) is the national organization providing compassionate care for the families of America’s fallen military heroes.