PUNGO — The Virginia Beach Mounted Patrol invited the public to the barn in Pungo on Saturday, June 29, to celebrate the first birthday of Lady Justice, born last summer to a new police horse named Dutchess.
Lady Justice was an unexpected arrival to the unit last year, and she is the first horse born into the unit. She greeted the public from her stall during an event that also helped raise funds for the Friends of the Virginia Beach Mounted Police.
“We were not expecting a baby to be born here at the barn, but everything has worked out well,” said Peggy Nelson, president of the friends. “She’s a sweet girl.”
Lady, in a decorated stall, was a hit with visitors young and old.
Todd Morrow, who lives near Lake Smith, traveled to see Lady and the other mounted patrol horses after hearing about the event from a friend. Morrow, who used to ride horses, deemed the animals “cute.”
Payton Kemp, 6, of Town Center gave Lady Justice a birthday smooch.
“It’s the birthday girl,” Kemp said, “and she kisses.”
Lucy Tankersley, 13, of Ocean Lakes came with her family to an “awesome” event.
“It’s great to see all the horses,” she said.
Raylynn Choate, 7, of Castleton also enjoyed the event. She wants to be a police officer when she grows up. She said they arrest people who are bad.
“They help people,” she added.
Due to her age, Lady Justice is a ways away from serving in the patrol, according to Officer John Jordan, a member of the patrol who rides Dutchess. But, in addition to winning hearts, Lady Justice is training to eventually join the patrol.
Follow the Friends of the Virginia Beach Mounted Police via @FriendsVBMP on Facebook or email Nelson at peggyssnc@gmail.com for more information.
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