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Spur Ride

Photo By Sgt. Elizabeth Clark | Soldiers with the 5th Squadron, 7th Cavalry Regiment received their spurs during the...... read more read more

FORT STEWART, GA, UNITED STATES

12.07.2016

Story by Spc. Elizabeth Clark

50th Public Affairs Detachment

The spur candidates were tasked to compete physical and mental challenges over the course of those three days. They did a stress shoot, land navigation, showed their knowledge of weapon systems, evaluated a casualty, and concluded the test with a 12K ruck march. These tests pushed the Soldiers to their limits to gauge their technical and tactical knowledge as well as leadership and decision making skills.
The demanding tasks built camaraderie among the candidates. “It was pretty cool smoking and joking and getting to know each other during the events,” said 2nd Lt. Nicholas Mogensen, assigned to the 5-7 Cav.
The Soldiers would have to do physical exercises before a task, such as flutter clicks before their stress shoot, to see how they would react under stress. “There were sometimes when it was pretty painful,” said Pvt. Maximillian Weiser, assigned to the 5-7 Cav. “But it was worth it in the end.”
The Spur Ride has a long tradition in the Cavalry extending back to its beginning when the Troopers were on horseback. Earning the spurs carries on, although the troops man Bradleys and Humvees now.
Earning their spurs connects the Soldiers to a long line of spur holders. The history and tradition of the Order of the Spur instills pride in those that join its ranks. Becoming a spur holder is an essential core of the Cavalry. “I love the idea of being in the Cavalry,” said Mogensen after completing the Spur Ride. “I feel more a part of the squadron, more committed to it.”
On the final day, all of the Soldiers who successfully made it through the Spur Ride received their spurs at a ceremony called the Spur Dinner Dec. 7. “I feel proud, and being a part of the Cavalry, having my own spurs and going through the pain and competition,” said Weiser before the Spur Dinner.