Cavalry squadron hosts annual Spur Challenge /Spurs, overall trophy awarded to Grant High School of Dry Prong, La.

Photo By Spc. Qualan M. Jefferson | 1st Sgt. Don A. Robinson of Natchitoches, La., first sergeant of A Troop, 2nd Squadron, 108th Cavalry Regiment, stands with representatives from the top three overall finishers of the second annual Spur Challenge Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps Drill Meet in Melrose, La. From the left, in third place is Tara High School from Baton Rouge, La., second place West Mesquite High School from Mesquite, Texas, and the overall first place winner Grant High School from Dry Prong, La.  

UNITED STATES

10.11.2008

Story by Spc. Qualan M. Jefferson 

Louisiana National Guard

By Spc. Qualan M. Jefferson
Louisiana National Guard

SHREVEPORT, La. – Louisiana National Guard Troops and Natchitoches Central High School held their second annual Spur Challenge Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps Drill Meet in Melrose, La., Oct. 11.

High schools from throughout Louisiana and Texas came out to compete in this year's competition, which was hosted by A Troop, 2nd Squadron, 108th Cavalry Regiment from Shreveport, La. Each school had several tasks to complete to gain points towards an overall victory.

Soldiers from 2/108th out of Natchitoches, La., graded the tasks at the one-day meet which included armed drill teams, unarmed drilled teams, exhibition drill, inspections, color guard, and physical training.

"I think this year's Spur Challenge was a huge success. Events like this help mold and motivate future Soldiers for the military," said Sgt. Michael A. Huff of Shreveport, La., a cavalry scout in B Troop, 2/108th and a grader for the color guard competition.

Grant High School from Dry Prong, La., took home the first place overall trophy and the set of spurs. Historically, the spurs are one of the Cavalry's prized possessions and are awarded to only a deserving few. They represent the best of the best in the U.S. Cavalry.

West Mesquite High School from Mesquite, Texas, took second place while Tara High School from Baton Rouge, La., won third.

"I appreciate being able to come back as a judge where I was once a JROTC cadet at Natchitoches Central High School and serve the community," said Sgt. 1st Class Jonathan D. Meziere of Natchitoches, La., and readiness non-commissioned officer of A Troop, 2/108th.

• Date Taken: 10.11.2008
• Date Posted: 12.03.2008 15:53
• Story ID: 27152
• Location: US