I have quite a story to tell about one of my heroes, Danny Ward, CJF.  For those that are not acquainted with this great man, I should tell you that he is a person of incredible integrity, generosity, kindness, and someone that can be held up as a role model for all of us.  There are those guys that treat you well when you are just beginning in this industry, and then there are the guys that ignore you as they confirm your belief that you are nobody.  Danny is one of those that will always seek out the youngster and try to make them feel as if they belong.  In fact, he will make you feel like the trade was incomplete before you arrived.  When I was starting out, Danny made every effort to help and encourage me, and I will always be indebted for his kindness.

As you probably know, Edward Martin, FWCF, recently passed away.  It is a great loss to our craft, as Edward was not only an unbelievably gifted farrier, but a great human being cut from the same cloth of humanity as Danny Ward.  Danny and Edward have shared many historical moments together, and they were great friends.  

Edward had a dark blue tie with the emblem of the NAFBAE (National Association of Farriers, Blacksmiths and Agricultural Engineers) on it.  With the tie, he had a gold Capewell horse nail with a clip on it to make it a tie tac.  Several years ago, Edward presented this tie and tie tac to Danny as a gift.  At the AFA Convention in Chattanooga, TN., Danny presented the tie and tie tac to Cody.  He told Cody, "I hope to see you wear this when you win the world."  Danny explained that he just wanted to pass this gift on to someone that is part of the future of horseshoeing.  It was a moment that Cody and I will never forget, and this gift will be a true treasure for Cody until he is able to pass it on to the next generation. 

This great craft of ours is filled with men and women of the highest caliber.  It is with humility and honor that we get to meet and spend time with people like Danny Ward and Edward Martin.  Make the most of the opportunities to attend clinics, conventions, certification, contests, and any other gathering where such great people can be found.  I know of no other industry that draws the kind of men that this one does, and I am glad to be a farrier.

If anyone comments about having interest in another Edward Martin story, I will write about the time that Edward judged the 4-corners contest.  If no one comments, then I will not take up your time with it.

God Bless you all.