Branding with Air Force Academy Cadets and Wounded Warriors

Norris and Brazile family welcomes Air Force Academy cadets and Wounded Warriors into the branding pen.

Steve Norris, of the TX Ranch in Colorado Springs, Colorado, invited Air Force Academy rodeo team and wrestling team members, as well as some in the Wounded Warrior program, to their spring branding May 12.

The cadets were the ground crew for Norris’ son-in-law, 23-time PRCA World Champion Trevor Brazile, and grandson, Treston Brazile, as well as other local ropers.

“It’s such an honor to have guys who have been fighting in the wars overseas for us to allow us to be out here raising these cattle, and you know they give us the opportunity to do the things we do,” Norris said. “A lot of praise goes out to those guys. It’s an honor to have them out there helping us.”

Air Force Academy rodeo team cadets Seth D’Allessandris (left) and Griffin Gluck with Trevor Brazile and Command Sgt. Mag. Travis Elliston, team coach, (right). TRJ File Photo/Chelsea Shaffer

Veterans associated with the Remount Foundation, run through the U.S. Air Force Academy Equestrian Center, join the Norris and Brazile families annually for their branding. The Remount Foundation is run by Billy Jack Barnett and provides equine-assisted learning for military, veterans, and their families.

“Cadets will tell you there is more life and leadership skills learned in the corral with Warriors like David Andrews, Lt. Col. Nicole Roberts, and Command Sgt. Maj. Travis Ellison, than in the classroom,” Barrett said.