The West Point Black Knights donned the 1st Cavalry Division patch on their helmets and paid a special tribute to America’s First Team during the Commander’s Cup 2022 as they faced the U.S. Air Force Academy Falcons on Nov. 5 in Arlington, Texas.
“This is an exciting event for a couple of reasons,” began Maj. Gen. John B. Richardson IV, 1st Cavalry Division commanding general. “It is an opportunity to showcase the incredible history of the division on horseback as well as the armored vehicle display with some of our best Troopers.”
The Ironhorse Brigade Soldiers showcased the most modern equipment in the U.S. Army, answered questions and allowed the community to climb into the vehicles as the 1st Cavalry Division band pumped up the tailgate with rock performances.
“It is great to be out here in Arlington with the community and share what we do on the tank with them,” said Spc. Danny Reyes, 2nd Squadron, 5th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team tanker. “I love being a loader and sharing that with people interested in joining one day and vets is amazing.”
Before the game began, the 1st Cavalry Division drumline filled the stadium with beats as Troopers and Airmen unfolded a large American Flag and 1st Air Cavalry Brigade Blackhawks flew overhead.
“It feels great to be on the field with these young Air Force and Army cadets knowing they are battling it out during the game, but they have also volunteered to support and defend the Constitution of the United States,” said Richardson. “I have a lot of respect for the paths that they chose.”
The crowd roared with excitement as Richardson joined by Command Sgt. Maj. Shade Munday, 1st Cavalry Division command sergeant major and the Horse Cavalry Detachment as they rode horseback to deliver the game day ball to the referees.
After being honored during the halftime show, Medal of Honor Recipient and former 1st Cavalry Division Airmobile, Col. (Ret.) Bruce Crandall met with the Troopers who held the flag for the National Anthem at the start of the game.
“It was great to see so many of the Soldiers out here,” said Crandall as he reflected on his time that he served heroically in the division.
The Troopers said that they enjoyed spending time with Crandall and meeting his dog.
After the Falcons defeated the Black Knights 13-7, the crowd and cadets continued to check out the static display of vehicles and talk to the Troopers as they left the stadium.
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