JOINT BASE LEWIS-MCCHORD, Wash. – Even though horses are a thing of the past, decorated Stetsons and spurs continue to flourish throughout the U.S Army cavalry.
“The cavalry has a colorful tradition, I feel like it’s one of the most unique to the post, “said Pfc. Logan Parks, an unmanned aerial vehicle operator, assigned to 1-14 Cavalry.
1st Squadron, 14th Cavalry Regiment hosted a Regimental Events Day as part of their 110th anniversary and reunion on September 30, 2011 at Joint Base Lewis-McChord. The event attendees included 1-14 Cavalry, Soldiers assigned to 2nd Squadron, 14th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Stryker brigade in Hawaii and about 30 veterans of the 14th Cavalry.
The event was meant to promote cohesion, strengthen ties between sister units, all while building bridges to the regiments past.
“Being here brings back memories of the cavalry’s commodore,” said Bill Murphy, a former Capt. with 14th Cavalry from 1964-1967.
Sgt. 1st Class Ryan Theodore, S-3 non- commissioned officer in charge assigned to 1-14th Cavalry, explained that most of the veterans in attendance are members of the Cavalry Regimental Association, which was started 10 years ago. The purpose of the association is to maintain tradition and history.
“It’s important for younger soldiers to know their past so they can be grateful of the sacrifices others have made for their country,” said Theodore.
The unit’s parade field displayed Stryker’s, unmanned aerial systems and other equipment that uses new technology to accomplish their mission. The veterans were impressed with all the new gadgets and screens of the equipment.
“Things have changed a lot and for the better,” said Murphy, who was excited about the event along with his wife Pat. “Having an Army with more technically trained and more efficient Soldiers provides a better sense of duty.”
Honoring old traditions and embracing the new way of the cavalry set the mood for the 1-14 Cavalry’s 110th anniversary.