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More Than a Patch: The Legacy of the Society of the First Infantry Division and Fort Riley’s BOSS Program
By Pfc. Jaden Davis
-SPRINGFIELD, Virgina- If you’ve spent any time at Fort Riley, Kansas, you’ve probably seen the iconic red numeral “1” proudly displayed across the installation. It’s more than just a symbol—it’s a reminder that every Soldier assigned to the 1st Infantry Division becomes part of a legacy that stretches back more than a century.
But preserving that legacy takes more than history books and museum displays. That’s where organizations like the Society of the First Infantry Division come into play.
From June 24th to June 28th, 2026, the Society of the First Infantry Division celebrated its 105th reunion in Springfield, VA. The Society holds a reunion for its members each year, bringing together Veterans, staff, volunteers and guests to celebrate the achievements and the history of the 1st Infantry Division and the Society that supports it. Each year, the Society hosts its reunion in different locales, each with a significant tie to Veterans and the military.
The Society of the First Infantry Division serves as a bridge connecting past and present members of the Big Red One family. Through reunions, historical preservation efforts, educational programs, and community outreach, the society ensures that the stories and accomplishments of former Soldiers continue to inspire the next generation. From the jungles of Vietnam, to the deserts of Iraq, Veterans of the Big Red One share their stories with today’s Soldiers, creating a unique connection between eras.
At the same time, Fort Riley’s Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers (BOSS) Program helps shape the future of the division by investing in the Soldiers who carry the mission forward today. To meet that goal, BOSS selected 15 active-duty Soldiers from across the division to represent the modern Big Red One during the Society’s 105th Annual Reunion.
While the Society of the First Infantry Division preserves history, the BOSS Program creates opportunities for Soldiers to build memories of their own. The program focuses on three key pillars: quality of life, community service, and recreation. Whether it’s volunteering in local communities, participating in adventure trips, organizing sporting events, or advocating for Soldier needs, BOSS helps young Soldiers grow both personally and professionally. The connection between the two organizations may not seem obvious at first, but they share a common purpose: strengthening the Big Red One family.The Society reminds Soldiers where they came from. BOSS helps steer where they are going.
Soldiers with the BOSS program joined members of the Society for a week at the Hotel Belvoir in Springfield, VA., where they socialized with fellow Veterans, enjoyed festivities and built meaningful connections amongst each other.
Throughout the trip, the Soldiers toured some of the nation’s most historic landmarks in Washington, D.C., gaining a deeper appreciation for the sacrifices that have shaped the Army’s history.
During a mentorship breakfast event attended by BOSS and members of the Society, U.S. Army Command Sgt. Maj. Michael Gossman, Command Sgt. Maj. of the 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, reflected on leadership, service, and the importance of carrying the division’s legacy forward.
“We come together not to celebrate victory or achievement, but to honor those whose service and sacrifice define the very soul of the 1st Infantry Division,” said Gossman. “We stand here because of them, we live in freedom because of them, and the legacy of the Big Red One endures because of them.”
Big Red One Soldiers then visited Arlington National Cemetery, where they observed the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, witnessing one of the Army’s most sacred traditions. They also paid their respects at memorials throughout Washington, including the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, where Society of the First Infantry Division members and U.S. Army Vietnam War Veteran Joseph P. Richard searched and traced the names of fallen comrades, honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
“You don’t remember the bad things as much-you mostly remember the good times,” Richard said. “The guys who were wounded and killed, we don't usually dwell on how they died. Instead, we remember who they were, the laughs we shared, and all the moments that made serving together special.
The trip strengthened the connection between generations of Big Red One Soldiers, giving BOSS participants the opportunity to learn directly from Veterans while experiencing the history, traditions, and enduring spirit of the 1st Infantry Division. More than a visit to the nation’s capital, the week served as a reminder that the legacy of the Big Red One is carried forward through shared stories, lasting friendships, and a continued commitment to service.
Together, the Society and BOSS reinforce a culture that values service, teamwork, leadership, and camaraderie. One organization preserves the stories of Soldiers who came before; the other helps today’s Soldiers create stories worth remembering.
Perhaps that’s what makes the Big Red One special. It’s not just about battles fought or awards earned. It’s about the people—past, present, and future—who contribute to a legacy larger than themselves.
At Fort Riley, history isn’t confined to museum walls. It’s visible in the Soldiers training on the ranges, volunteering in the community, and participating in programs that build stronger teams. Every generation adds another chapter to the story.
And for Soldiers assigned to the 1st Infantry Division today, that story is still being written.
After all, legends aren’t just remembered—they’re continued.
**-30-**| Date Taken: | 06.30.2026 |
| Date Posted: | 07.14.2026 16:36 |
| Story ID: | 569085 |
| Location: | FORT RILEY, KANSAS, US |
| Web Views: | 26 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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