THRIVE MAGAZINE // Veteran Farmer Coalition
– A Former Soldier’s “Agri-Therapy” –
Building a new way forward after military service can be incredibly challenging—and it’s something that most people haven’t experienced. Our team recently learned about one path back to civilian life that has provided a meaningful option to an increasing number of veterans: farming. Photographing veteran farmer Marvin Frink gave us a chance to hear firsthand about this former military officer’s tough transition to a new sense of normalcy. After returning home from his service in the Army’s elite Special Forces, Marvin struggled with PTSD. He took up cattle farming after his father suggested that it could give him a renewed sense of purpose, recalling how Marvin had connected with the animals as a child. Marvin now owns and runs Briarwood Cattle Farms in Red Springs, North Carolina. Out on the farm, we shot photos and video that encapsulate the love that he and his family share with each other, their animals, and anyone who comes to visit.
Marvin is a member of the Farmer Veteran Coalition, an organization that helps veterans transition to working in the agricultural field after their service. Their resources have given Marvin the support he needed to grow his business into the bustling farm that it is today. Briarwood is full of life and activity: in fact, we were lucky enough to photograph King, a just-born calf, as he grazed in the field for the very first time!
Between navigating fields of roaming animals and observing our ongoing COVID-19 protocols, this shoot demanded adaptation and mobility. Amidst all of the movement, we were also happy to find some peaceful moments to just listen to Marvin and his family as they shared their story. We’re proud to witness their transition into a new way of thriving together.
– Behind the Scenes –
Credits:
Photographer: Natalia Weedy
DP: Alex Craig
Assistant/BTS: Mackenzie Joyner
Retouching: Lindsey Warren // Cowboy Collective