Sound the horn, the cavalry has arrived

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Erien Clark-Chasse
  • 7th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
DYESS AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  Like something right out of a Wild West movie, 11 riders and 11 horses in synchronization showed crowds at the Texas State High School Rodeo Championships that the cavalry is still alive and well in the U.S. Army.

The 1st Cavalry Division, Horse Cavalry Detachment from Ft. Hood, Texas, visited the Abilene area June 14 through 19 for demonstrations and stayed at the base's stables.

"Our accommodations are some of the best we have had during our trips," said Army Capt. Randall Davis, detachment commander.

The group would know as they travel all over the country to perform demonstrations and educate the public.

"It's important for us to have a chance to interact with the public and really show them the professionalism of today's solder and the interesting traditions the cavalry has from its past," Captain Davis said.

This unique unit was formed in 1974 when the detachment performed its first mounted demonstration using six riders and mounts. Through the 70's, the detachment continued to grow, but soldiers were still donating a lot of personal time, supplies, and money of their own to make the unit function. In 1986, the horse platoon was re-named the Horse Cavalry Detachment to better conform to historical precedent.

It was about this time that the demonstration was improved to include 11 riders and mounts and a four-mule hitch pulling the escort wagon. Their uniforms also reflect the historical essence of the time they honor.

"We wear light-blue pants with a gold stripe, a classic shirt from the time, and a cavalry (cowboy) hat," said Army Spec. Chris Wade, a ground crew member.

Another reflection of this effort to give the group an authentic feel is the terms and demonstration drills they use. The riders, or troopers, also use weapons similar to
those used by the cavalry of U.S. history. The team does drill maneuvers at a walk, trot and gallop and perform weapons demonstrations with the saber, .45 caliber revolver, said Mr. Larry Borth, a team trainer.

Getting people and animals to work as a team can sometimes be a challenge.

"The hardest thing we face during demonstrations is getting everyone to work completely as a team. We take 11 riders, 11 horses, a wagon, and ground crew and create a single show and focus," Captain Davis said.

Members of the unit come from all over the country and have different jobs in the Army. Horse experience is not required.

"When I got this job I had never even ridden a horse before, but now I consider the horses to be the best part of this job," said Army Spec. Justin Ligdett.