Ricky proudly served as a Military Police Officer in the United States Army at Fort Campbell. He deployed to Iraq from 2009–2010, an experience that shaped who he is today. The Army taught him discipline, resilience, leadership, and the importance of serving something greater than himself.
"The Farmer Veteran Coalition has been an incredible resource for our farm journey. As a veteran and first-generation farmer, one of the biggest blessings has been connecting with other veteran farmers who understand both the challenges and rewards of agriculture. Through the Farmer Veteran Coalition, I have gained valuable research, education, and support that has helped strengthen and grow our operation. Most recently, I was honored to receive a grant that will help fund the construction of fencing for our new pasture. This project will allow us to improve our grazing system, better manage our cattle, and continue building the farm we’ve worked so hard to create. I am incredibly grateful for organizations that invest in veterans and help us continue serving our communities in new ways. Thank you to everyone who supports veteran farmers and the future of agriculture."
Rivercrest Angus Farm is a first-generation, seed stock registered Angus operation dedicated to producing high-quality cattle with genetics that are functional, profitable, and marketable throughout the Southeast. Their goal is to raise Angus cattle that excel in maternal traits, structural soundness, fertility, longevity, and carcass quality while thriving in the environmental conditions of the region.
They are committed to continuous improvement through careful genetic selection, performance-based decision-making, and responsible stewardship of the land and livestock. As a family-owned farm, they take pride in building a herd that provides value to both commercial cattlemen and fellow seed stock producers.
At River Crest Angus Farm, the mission is simple: to produce quality Angus genetics, honor God through their work, and leave a lasting legacy for future generations.
Ricky remembers visiting his uncle on the farms he managed as a child. Those experiences sparked his passion for agriculture and inspired his dream of one day owning a farm. Ricky loved being around livestock and seeing the hard work and dedication that farming requires.
The Army later provided him with the tools, resources, leadership skills, and educational opportunities that helped turn that childhood dream into reality.
"I believe farming allows me to continue serving my country in a different aspect of serving. Just as I was accountable to my fellow soldiers, I am now accountable to my livestock, my customers, and my community. Farming requires hard work, adaptability, perseverance, and a commitment to doing the right thing even when no one is watching. Every day brings new challenges, and like my military service, success depends on staying disciplined and continuing to push forward."
"I take pride in producing quality cattle and contributing to our nation’s food supply. Providing safe, high-quality food and agricultural products is an important service, and I am honored to play a small role in that effort."
"Being an American farmer is a blessing. We live in a country where we have the freedom to pursue our dreams, work hard, and build something for future generations. Farming allows me to provide for my family while also helping provide food for other families. It is a responsibility I do not take lightly. Being an American farmer means being a steward of the land, caring for livestock, contributing to our nation’s food security, and preserving a way of life that has helped build this country."
