FORT BLISS, Texas – The 1st Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, ‘Blackhawks’ took time from their busy schedule to go out and support the city of El Paso, Texas, March 16, by picking up litter on US Highway 54 and Sean Haggerty.
Wearing full uniforms and reflective safety belts and brandishing trash bags with the slogan “Don’t Mess With Texas,” they maneuvered through the bushes and canals attacking the litter on their piece of land with tenacity and determination.
The 1st Sqdrn., 1st Cav. Regt. ‘Blackhawks’ have been cleaning their portion of the Adopt-A-Highway for two years after they re-established here from Germany. It is their way of supporting the community that has been so friendly to the soldiers and family members stationed here.
“Picking up trash is never fun, but everyone had a good time,” said Spc. Louis Loftice, a personnel administration clerk with 1st Sqdrn., 1st Cav. Regt.
As the work comes to end and a mission complete, the soldiers of 1st Sqdrn., 1st Cav. Regt., return to Fort Bliss after a day of helping take care of El Paso and expressing gratitude for the city’s friendly community.
Spc. Jimmy Purvis, the squadron mail handler, summed it up best when he shared his thoughts among the Blackhawk Squadron.
“I always like doing community service and it’s always nice to help people,” Purvis said.