Cavalry Reunion In Texas

Photo By Sgt. Elliot Alagueuzian | Veterans of the original Horse Platoon cheer the Troopers of the Horse Cavalry Detachment at the Mount Pleasant Rodeo in Mount Pleasant, Texas, Oct. 21, 2023. The original Troopers of the Horse Platoon were established back in 1972.  

FORT CAVAZOS, TX, UNITED STATES

10.21.2023

Story by Sgt. Elliot Alagueuzian 

1st Cavalry Division

In a heartwarming reunion, the original Troopers of the Horse Platoon, 1st Cavalry Division, gathered in Mount Pleasant, Texas, October 21, 2023, to relive old memories, share stories and witness the timeless tradition of cavalry exercises performed by Troopers of the Horse Cavalry Detachment, 1st Cavalry Division. The event was a nostalgic journey back in time, celebrating the rich history and camaraderie of these brave Troopers.
“We are all brothers here,” Dale Bradshaw, former Staff Sgt. in the original Horse Platoon said. “As you get older you sit talk about the old days, and we feel it’s very important to always remember the camaraderie in military and to keep up the legacy of the Horse Platoon.”
The Horse Platoon was originally formed back in 1972 as a ceremonial unit that had to honor the history and heritage of the cavalrymen. However, in the early days the platoon had to impress the chain of command to continue to grow and spread the culture of the cavalry.
“It’s very different than what we had to do, because we were just starting out. So we had to do things to get their attention so they like us and that’s what we did.” Mack Chandler, former platoon sergeant of the Horse Platoon.
The reunion kicked off with a warm welcome and a series of events that celebrated the soldiers' service. Veterans reminisced about their time in the division and shared stories that spanned decades. For many, it was the first time they had seen each other since their active-duty days. There was a palpable sense of camaraderie and the rekindling of old friendships.
“This is one of the most unique jobs in the Army,” Capt. Michael C. Gates, company commander of the Horse Cavalry Detachment said. “To meet and perform in front of the veterans who served in the same role nearly half a century ago is a special event for our Troopers.”
A highlight of the reunion was the opportunity for the original soldiers to watch the current members of the Horse Cavalry Detachment perform classic cavalry exercises. These exercises included demonstrations of horsemanship, precision drill routines, and blank-firing demonstrations using vintage weapons.
The reunion also featured barbeque, where veterans shared their experiences and their pride in serving in the 1st Cavalry Division. Members of the Horse Cavalry Detachment spoke about the significance of keeping the cavalry tradition alive and how much they valued the wisdom and stories shared by the original Troopers.
“People are typically very excited to see us at the events.” Gates said. “but that was probably the loudest cheering we’ve had for every pistol shot and saber swing that I’ve heard since I took command. They were so fun and energetic; I’m already looking forward to next year’s event.”
As the reunion concluded, there was a sense of gratitude and pride among all those in attendance. The original soldiers of the Horse Platoon may have left the active service long ago, but their spirit and legacy live on in the new generation of cavalry soldiers who continue to honor the traditions of the 1st Cavalry Division. This reunion in Mount Pleasant served as a poignant reminder that, in the world of the cavalry, the past and present are inextricably linked, and the bonds of service and camaraderie never fade.

• Date Taken: 10.21.2023
• Date Posted: 10.25.2023 15:18
• Story ID: 456464
• Location: FORT CAVAZOS, TX, US