SCHOFIELD BARRACKS, HAWAII -- Equine nostrils flared as horses galloped back and forth across Weyand Field by the 25th Infantry Division headquarters building. This was not a flashback to when the Army actively employed these animals. The sound of the horses' hooves pounding the ground was mixed with the sounds of mallets hitting a little white ball and a cheering crowd. This was a polo exhibition Oct. 9, and one of the capstone events for the 25th ID's 73rd birthday celebration, Tropic Lightning Week.
TLW is, in addition to a birthday celebration, a celebration of the 60th anniversary of the 25th ID's return to Hawaii from Korea in 1954. The division celebrated much the same as it does every year, the battalions competed throughout the week in several sports tournaments and physical competitions, deciding which will be TLW champion and take home the Guadalcanal Cup.
The final day was a little different than cookout and party of the past few years. In addition to the polo exhibition, the division hosted a traditional Ha'a ceremony and a luau for the surrounding community, and held a Pass in Review and veterans' recognition ceremony.
However, all of the competition, pomp, and circumstance was really just an excuse for the division to come together as a family.
"It's about camaraderie, bringing the organizations together," said Command Sgt. Maj. Benjamin Jones, 25th ID senior enlisted advisor. "It's more than just the Guadalcanal Cup. It's about building the team from Soldier to leader. This is an opportunity to bring everyone together, mesh the colors."
One of the units to feel this most keenly was the 65th Engineer Battalion. Technically not part of the 25th yet, they came and took part in the week's events in an effort to get to know the team they'll be joining when they officially become part of the 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team on Oct. 21.
"The best part of this week is the relationships built along the way," said Lt. Col. David Acker, 65th Eng. Batt. commander. "It really makes us feel like a part of their organization and a part of their team."
This was the common thread throughout the week.
"We are celebrating our division birthday," said Chaplain (Capt.) John Gabriel, 25th ID Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion chaplain. "It's gives us an opportunity to come together to enjoy the 25th ID family."
Jones added, "It's also a chance, at the end of the day, to reflect on Soldiers, past, present, and future."
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