JOINT BASE LANGLEY-EUSTIS, Va. –
Tucked away behind the Eaglewood Golf Course and next to the East River Bank hide horses roaming throughout 15 enclosed acres at Langley Air Force Base, Virginia.
The Langley Saddle Club, a privately owned equestrian association, has been responsible for the horses and the up-keep of the farm since its establishment in 1970.
"We manage and maintain everything that is affiliated with the stables," said Sheryl Lembcke, treasurer of the LSC. "The joint effort by all of the members helps to produce a safe and homey environment."
For active or retired military members, the club offers the chance to board horses locally at an affordable cost. With 21 stalls available and only 12 horses boarded currently, the LSC welcomes members to join their family.
"Having friends to rely on to help take care of your horse and go trail riding with is just one of the many benefits of boarding your horse here," said Lembcke, who boards her 6-year-old Tennessee walking horse, Sunny, at the stables. "Everyone is willing to trade off on the workload and take care of the horses."
If a U.S. Service member does not own a horse but still wants to be involved, they can become an associate member of the LSC.
Volunteering in the stables is a great way for U.S. Air Force Airmen to join this tight-knit family and learn about horses, said Lembcke. The club holds working parties on the second Saturday of each month to maintain the farm. The next working party is being held May 14 from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
"Volunteers are always needed and welcomed," said Lembcke. "This is a great way to give back, make new friends, and interact with the horses."
The club also meets every third Thursday of the month and plans events for the year.
"We have decorated the horses and had a Christmas parade for the past few years," said Lembcke. "We hope to bring more recognition to the farm through these events and some fun too."
Social events occur regularly throughout the summer and fall, said Lembcke. The events encompass the atmosphere that the dedicated members have created.
"Langley is really trying to help people feel at home by allowing us to be here," said Lembcke. "This farm is a privilege and a gift to our active-duty members."
For more information about how to become a member of the LSC, or to volunteer as an associate member, contact Joe Harvey at 639-1715, or visit their website at
www.langleysaddleclub.weebly.com.