Team Overwacth
Program Founders - Greg & Donna Eliel
As a fourth-generation cattle rancher from Montana's Big Hole Valley with a family legacy dating back to 1894, Greg Eliel brings profound expertise to the horse/human relationship. With over thirty years of horsemanship experience and guidance from esteemed horsemen like Ray Hunt, Tom and Bill Dorrance, and Buck Brannaman, Greg has mastered the art of communication between horses and humans.
Donna Eliel, our Executive Director, adds a unique dimension to our team. Born and raised in Hunterdon County, New Jersey, Donna shares Greg's deep connection to horses, military family and volunteering. Together, they bring a wealth of experience and passion for giving back to those who have sacrificed so much for our freedom and peace of mind.
Their impact spans across various areas, from guiding riders and coaching business executives to aiding our nation's heroes. Through their horsemanship based clinics and programs, Greg and Donna have positively influenced the lives of thousands.
Motivated by a profound sense of gratitude towards family and friends who have served, Greg and Donna are deeply committed to supporting our nation's heroes and their families. They utilize the healing power of horses to guide participants on a road of self-discovery, emotional healing, and personal growth.
In 2016, Greg and Donna established the programs now known as Overwatch, a nonprofit organization that offers intensive three-day workshops and a mentorship program. Through these initiatives, they provide invaluable support to participants, allowing them to gain horsemanship skills and teach the program, creating a ripple effect of healing. Additionally, Greg and Donna collaborate with other nonprofits, sharing their program to extend its reach, which has made a lasting impact on the lives of those who have served and sacrificed.
SSG(R) Darrell 'Tony" Dill
Senior Military Liaison
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Our Senior Military Liaison, brings a wealth of experience and dedication to the Veterans Overwatch team. Born in Wiesbaden, Germany, and raised in the sunny state of Florida, SSG Dill's journey led him to the United States Army at the age of 22, where he embarked on a distinguished career in service to his country.
During his tenure, Tony served three years in the conventional Army at Ft. Bragg before transitioning to the Special Operations community at Ft. Campbell, where he spent an impressive 15 years with the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne). Throughout his military career, Tony demonstrated exceptional bravery and skill, earning two Distinguished Flying Crosses for his actions in combat and accumulating an impressive 42 months of deployment in high-risk environments.
Beyond his military accomplishments, Tony possesses a deep passion for horsemanship. Since 2015, he has been actively involved with horses, recognizing their profound ability to heal trauma and provide solace to those in need.
Following his honorable retirement from the Army in December 2019, Tony redirected his focus towards giving back to fellow veterans, military members, and first responders in need. Since 2017, he has played an integral role in assisting Greg Eliel and the Veterans Overwatch program, leveraging his expertise and passion to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who have served. Married and father to four daughters, Tony continues to exemplify service and dedication in all aspects of his life.
