DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. -- The relationship between military personnel and their local communities is often strengthened by leaders who step forward to offer support, understanding, and unique perspectives for Airmen. Dr. Rosemary Baughman, executive director and founder of Courageous Hearts, has exemplified that connection during her year as an honorary commander with Air Force Mortuary Affairs Operations.
The Honorary Commander Program is designed to create stronger bonds between AFMAO, Dover Air Force Base, and its surrounding community by bringing in civilian leaders who offer new perspectives and avenues of support to Airmen and the mortuary as a whole. As part of her support, Dr. Baughman—along with her daughter, Rebekah—hosted AFMAO members at her family-owned business and farm, offering them a unique opportunity to unwind, connect with nature, and take part in activities that encouraged reflection and emotional well-being after their mission responsibilities.
Equine Assisted Psychotherapy involves normal equine therapy, combined with guidance from a certified mental health practitioner. The resilience activity included the participants being able to pet and brush the horses, while also participating in pathway building activity. Baughman emphasizes the importance of having a mental health practitioner and an equine professional to ensure safety and effectiveness.
The mom and daughter duo guided the Airmen through the activities and were able to provoke conversations relating not only to the airmen's mission, but also to their personal lives, daily hardships, and personal experiences. She explained that the horses and participants interact naturally, allowing for self-reflection and decision-making exploration.
Baughman explained that while traditional therapy is important, it is also necessary to be able to communicate and release emotions through other means.
“Sometimes we get tired of talking about our feelings,” Baughman explains. “However, we all need the process and some of our hard things, especially at AFMAO, we need to figure out how to process them.”
She emphasizes the importance of having a mental health practitioner and an equine professional to ensure safety and effectiveness. Baughman described her relationship with the deployed AFMAO airmen as well, and how it helps her connect with other Honorary Commanders and the local community who also want to provide support.
“I have had the privilege as an honorary commander to let people know how profound that mission is…it opens up that conversation, ‘how can I help support these young people that are doing this difficult work?’”
Honorary commanders like Baughman not only bring fresh ideas and resources but also serve as bridges—connecting service members to a wider population and showing them that support exists both inside and outside of the base. These partnerships remind service members that healing, understanding, and resilience can come in many forms— sometimes even in places where words fall short.