This horse is named Big Joe. He is a draft cross that was donated to the Horseshoeing School a few years ago. Riley trained him to ride and taught him the basics. Riley’s father, Don, owner of Rocking M Quarter Horses, found him to be a phenomenal ranch horse. Joe found his home at Don’s Horse ranch in central Idaho.
A few days ago, Joe fell into a deep hole in a pasture while checking cows. The hole was made by a leaky water mainline and was just big enough for Joe to wedge his whole body in. Thanks to quick thinking by Don Mickelsen, they saved him, and he is making a full recovery.
The description of the video that I saw online stated:
To me, Don Mickelsen epitomises the can-do spirit of the American Cowboy and the resilience of American Ranchers. He is a prime example of the sort of man who tackles problems with fierce determination and a "never quit" attitude. Cold, wet, and exhausting didn't matter. So yes, if Americans today need an example of toughness and what it is to do right in a stressful situation, this is it.
I salute Mr. Mickelsen. He's the sort of American that others can learn from. As for River, Bre, and Mrs. Mickelsen, who filmed the rescue, God bless you all.
Tom Correa
