At the Western Dressage Association of America (WDAA), we are incredibly proud to celebrate the remarkable individuals who have not only dedicated their lives to serving our country but have also found a passion for Western Dressage. Their stories are a testament to courage, discipline, and the profound bond between horse and rider.
Join us as we shine a spotlight on some of our veteran members, their distinguished military careers, and their inspiring journeys in the Western Dressage arena with their cherished equine partners.
Donna Morris and Sir Dapple Jack & Phoenix
Donna Morris, a proud veteran and Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO) of the United States Marine Corps, has quickly become a force to be reckoned with in Western Dressage. Last year, at her very first WDAA World Show, Donna and her equine partner, Phoenix, achieved an impressive fifth overall in the Amateur Intro Test 1. "This was our first year to attempt any sort of dressage and now I’m hooked!" Donna exclaims. Her enthusiasm is palpable, and we can't wait to see what she and Phoenix (and Sir Dapple Jack!) achieve next.
Laura Mancuso and My Morale is Good ("Gus")
Master Sergeant (Msgt) Laura Mancuso's military career spans an incredible 21 years. Beginning as a Private in the U.S. Army, where she served as a Chaplain Assistant and later an LPN/Medic, Laura was stationed across the US and in diverse locations like Germany and El Salvador. After a break in service, she re-enlisted in her 30s, eventually transitioning to the Air Force. Post-9/11, Laura joined the 183rd AES (Air Evacuation Squadron) in Mississippi, deploying to evacuate patients during the aftermath of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. A few years later, she served in Operation Enduring Freedom, evacuating wounded warriors from the Middle East. She concluded her distinguished career as a Medical Training NCOIC for the Air Force National Guard of New Mexico in 2013.
Today, Laura shares her life with her 16-year-old Quarter Horse, My Morale is Good, affectionately known as Gus. While primarily showing in Western Pleasure, Laura was introduced to WDAA in 2023 by a friend. "Our journey has improved especially last year," she notes. Laura's dedication led her to research the WDAA Wheel and study with Ida Norris, gaining a deeper understanding of the foundation of Western Dressage. "Our human and horse relationship of Harmony is proof with the scores we are receiving, and this year I am enjoying the challenges of Basic Level tests."
Ginger Haddad and Cross Creek He’s a Dandy ("Dandy")
Colonel Ginger Haddad served 25 years as a Judge Advocate (attorney) in the Air Force, retiring as a Colonel. Her husband, a highly decorated USAF special operations pilot, also contributed significantly, bringing their combined service to an impressive 60 years! Despite a demanding military career, Ginger has now embarked on her Western Dressage journey with her beloved Gypsy Vanner gelding, Cross Creek He’s a Dandy, barn name Dandy. She recently completed her first WDAA Intro Test at Ocala's Citrus Cup, achieving a score of 64.4. We commend Ginger for her dedication and wish her and Dandy many more successful rides!
Diana and Gold Boom ("Boomie")
Diana, a veteran of the United States Air Force, served 21 years from 1983-2004 as a Combat Communications officer and engineer, including three combat tours. For nearly 16 of those years, her faithful companion has been Gold Boom, or Boomie, who is now nineteen. Their enduring partnership is a beautiful example of the lasting bond between horse and rider. Thank you, Diana and Boomie, for your service and for sharing your story with us!
Emily Soto and Blue Boys Glory ("Sid")
Emily Soto served 8 years in the Air Force as Security Forces. Her military career saw her living in two different countries and two different states, including one deployment. Emily's gelding, Blue Boys Glory, known as Sid, has been her constant companion throughout her active-duty service, traveling across the country with her and her still-active-duty Air Force husband. Emily finds immense joy in Western Dressage, noting how it has strengthened her and Sid's relationship. "When we enter the ring, he turns into a different horse and you can tell he loves it," she shares. Western Dressage holds a special place in her heart as it was the discipline where she and Sid finally achieved their dream of winning a buckle after years of hard work.
The WDAA is honored to have these remarkable individuals as part of our community. Their discipline, perseverance, and passion, honed through years of military service, undoubtedly contribute to their success in the arena. We salute their service to our nation and their dedication to the sport of Western Dressage.
