First Team Shares Cavalry Pride at Texas Motor Speedway

By Pfc. Jacob NunnenkampSeptember 28, 2022

1st Cavalry Division supports Texas Motor Speedway
1 / 4 Show Caption + Hide Caption – The 1st Cavalry Division shows multiple displays at the Texas Motor Speedway in Fort Worth, Texas, Sept. 25. The 1st Cavalry Division often appears at local community events to strengthen a bond with the local community. (Photo Credit: Spc. Cheyne Hanoski) VIEW ORIGINAL
1st Cavalry Division supports Texas Motor Speedway
2 / 4 Show Caption + Hide Caption – The 1st Cavalry Division shows multiple displays at the Texas Motor Speedway in Fort Worth, Texas, Sept. 25. The 1st Cavalry Division often appears at local community events to strengthen a bond with the local community. (Photo Credit: Spc. Cheyne Hanoski) VIEW ORIGINAL
1st Cavalry Division supports Texas Motor Speedway
3 / 4 Show Caption + Hide Caption – The 1st Cavalry Division shows multiple displays at the Texas Motor Speedway in Fort Worth, Texas, Sept. 25. The 1st Cavalry Division often appears at local community events to strengthen a bond with the local community. (Photo Credit: Spc. Cheyne Hanoski) VIEW ORIGINAL
1st Cavalry Division supports Texas Motor Speedway
4 / 4 Show Caption + Hide Caption – The 1st Cavalry Division shows multiple displays at the Texas Motor Speedway in Fort Worth, Texas, Sept. 25. The 1st Cavalry Division often appears at local community events to strengthen a bond with the local community. (Photo Credit: Spc. Cheyne Hanoski) VIEW ORIGINAL

FORT WORTH, TEXAS – 1st Cavalry Division Troopers attended the Texas Motor Speedway to support a NASCAR event and engage with members of the local community, Sept. 24-25.

“Seeing the 1st Cavalry out here today reminds me of my time serving in the infantry,” said Thomas Benson, a veteran of the 1st Air Cavalry Brigade.

Troopers spent the day, highlighting the lethality of the First Team and connecting with families by showing static displays of the M1A2 Abrams Tank. The 1st Cavalry Division Horse Detachment, Band and Honor Guard shared the heritage of the division with everyone in attendance during the opening ceremony for the event, performing the national anthem and posting the colors.

“I’m proud to have served in the cavalry and I’m happy to see them out here,” continued Benson.

NASCAR enthusiasts arrived at the racetrack early, greeted by "First Team” Troopers donned in Stetsons. The Abrams Tank, Bradley Fighting Vehicle and PATRIOT Missile Launching Station stood on display for onlookers to enjoy.

“I like being able to share the Army’s story and its equipment with the public and let them know it’s not just what they see on T.V.,” said Staff Sgt. Brokk Nyswonger, 1st Cavalry Division Horse Detachment Honor Guard.

As guests moved into their seats for the upcoming race, they heard the First Team Band as they performed ‘The Star-Spangled Banner’ for thousands as the Honor Guard posted the colors.

“It’s always a great feeling to honor the nation by playing the anthem,” said Spc. Ryan Youmans, 1st Cavalry Division Band musician. “Our rock band had the opportunity to perform last night, they were very humbled with the reaction they got, and we had the same response today.”

Troopers ended the night by celebrating in the winner's circle with Tyler Reddick and his team.