FORT BRAGG, N.C. -- The annual spur ride is a tradition which tests the best of the best within the U.S. Army's cavalry career field. Capt. Michael Mobbs and his dog, Scooter, recently proved just how far they would go to earn the honor of becoming spur holders--an honor bestowed upon those troopers who complete a spur ride.
Mobbs, an infantry officer and company commander of Charlie Troop, 3rd Squadron, 73rd Cavalry Regiment, in the 82nd Airborne Division's 1st Brigade Combat Team, strived to set the example for his paratroopers by participating in his squadron's spur ride, Oct. 6. In a move rarely undertaken, Mobbs invited Scooter to participate by his side in the grueling, team-building event here.
About three years ago Mobbs took in Scooter, a puppy who escaped from a dog fighting circuit, and welcomed him in as part of his family.
"I've always had a lot of respect for Scooter," said Mobbs. "He's been a great family dog [and has been] protective of my girls and our home."
Mobbs said inviting Scooter to participate in the event was a practical matter. The commander said he takes care of Scooter while his wife takes care of their two daughters and second dog in Washington, D.C.
This year's spur ride was particularly intense because all the events, which included tasks ranging from ruck marches to paddling boats, were packed into a 24-hour time span. There was no opportunity for rest, and the candidates were pushed to their limits to earn their spurs.
Mobbs said he was very impressed with Scooter's performance during the spur ride, and he believes that Scooter probably motivated several candidates who saw him driving on when things got particularly tough. He said that Scooter's reward for participating was the honor of becoming an honorary spur holder, a steak at the end of the spur ride, and the 48-hour nap he took after it was all done.
"I think in another life he would have made an outstanding service dog," said Mobbs. "He's clearly demonstrated that he has the mental and physical stamina required."
Mobbs set out to inspire his troops and take part in a tradition that spans back to the early 1700s. He did just that by earning his spurs, and along the way he introduced the cavalry to Scooter, its newest honorary spur holder.
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