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Lt. Col. Andrew P. Betson, and Command Sgt. Maj. Christopher J. Belch, the command team of the 1st Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment,2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, celebrate the squadron's 191st birthday in the traditional cutting of the cake with with Col. Sylvester F Kołsutowicz, Polish commander of the 1st Mechanized Battalion, 2nd Mechanized Brigade and Pvt. Ashton Pritchard, the youngest troop in the unit, at Jaworize, Poland on March 2, 2024. As the squadron continues its long lasting commitment to the nation, it also continues to adapt to the challenges of global modern warfare, and stands ready to face any threat when called upon. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Trevares Johnson)
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U.S. Army Lt. Col. Andrew P. Betson, and Command Sgt. Maj. Christopher J. Belch, the command team of the 1st Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, celebrate with the youngest troop in the squadron, Pvt. Ashton Pritchard, a cavalry scout, in the traditional cutting of the cake to mark the 191st birthday of squadron at Jaworize, Poland on March 2, 2024. As the squadron continues its long lasting commitment to the nation, it also continues to adapt to the challenges of global modern warfare, and stands ready to face any threat when called upon. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Trevares Johnson)
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Amidst cheers and camaraderie, cavalry scouts assigned to the 1st Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, unite to honor the rich history of the squadron's 191st birthday. The squadron celebrates almost two centuries of service to our nation as it completes its mission in Poland at Jaworize, Poland on March 2, 2024. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Trevares Johnson)
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U.S Army Sgt. Zachary McDavis, a cavalry scout from the 1st Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, joyously celebrates the 191st birthday of the squadron, showcasing camaraderie and unit pride. As the squadron continues its long lasting commitment to the nation, it also continues to adapt to the challenges of global modern warfare, and stands ready to face any threat when called upon. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Trevares Johnson)
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The joyous festivities capturing the 191st birthday celebration of Blackhawk troops unfold as Pvt. Ashton Pritchard, a cavalry scout from the 1st Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, beckons the cake cutting ceremony. As the squadron continues its long lasting commitment to the nation, it also continues to adapt to the challenges of global modern warfare, and stands ready to face any threat when called upon. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Trevares Johnson)
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Marking a significant occasion, NATO partner Col. Sylvester F Kołsutowicz, Polish commander of the 1st Mechanized Battalion, 2nd Mechanized Brigade joined Blackhawk troops in celebrating the squadron's strength and commitment as it prepares to end its NATO mission in Poland. As the squadron continues its long lasting commitment to the nation, it also continues to adapt to the challenges of global modern warfare, and stands ready to face any threat when called upon. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Trevares Johnson)
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NATO partner Col. Sylvester F Kołsutowicz, Polish commander of the 1st Mechanized Battalion, 2nd Mechanized Brigade, presented a saber to U.S. Army Lt. Col. Andrew Betson, commander of the 1st Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, in celebration of the 191st birthday of the squadron. As the squadron continues its long lasting commitment to the nation, it also continues to adapt to the challenges of global modern warfare, and stands ready to face any threat when called upon. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Trevares Johnson)
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A stetson belonging to U.S Army Sgt. Zachary McDavis, a cavalry scout from the 1st Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, is a symbol of the squadron's rich history as troops commemorate the 191st birthday of the squadron in Jaworize, Poland on March 2, 2024. As the squadron continues its long lasting commitment to the nation, it also continues to adapt to the challenges of global modern warfare, and stands ready to face any threat when called upon. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Trevares Johnson)
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U.S. Army Col. Dwight D. Domengeaux, commander of the 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division and U.S. Army Lt. Col. Andrew Betson, commander of the 1st Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, showcase the bond and unity among cavalry scouts as they commemorate the 191st birthday of the squadron at Jaworize, Poland on March 2, 2024. As the squadron continues its long lasting commitment to the nation, it also continues to adapt to the challenges of global modern warfare, and stands ready to face any threat when called upon. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Trevares Johnson)
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U.S. Army Sgt. Hayanny Chevalier, a troop assigned to the 1st Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, celebrates the squadron's 191st birthday with her peers at Jaworize, Poland on March 2, 2024. As the squadron continues its long lasting commitment to the nation, it also continues to adapt to the challenges of global modern warfare, and stands ready to face any threat when called upon. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Trevares Johnson)
(Photo Credit: Spc. Trevares Johnson)VIEW ORIGINAL
JAWORIZE, Poland – In the Baltic region of northwestern Poland, 725 kilometers from the Belarus - Ukraine border, the 1st Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, celebrated its 191st birthday at Logistical Support Area South, Poland on March 2, 2024.
Currently deployed to the European theater to support Operation European Assure Deter and Reinforce, the squadron marked the occasion with a festive gathering that brought together the camaraderie and tradition the cavalry is known for.
The 1st Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, boasting a rich history dating back to the Mexican-American War fought in 1846, has been a known force across various theaters of conflict.
The unit played vital roles in the Spanish–American War, the Philippine Insurrection, World War II, Vietnam, and the Global War on Terrorism.
Speaking at the birthday celebration, U.S. Army Lt. Col. Andrew Betson, the squadron commander, reflected on the squadron's legacy and significance.
"The Blackhawks have a storied history of resilience and bravery, standing tall in the face of adversity across generations. As we celebrate the Blackhawks’ 191st birthday, it's a moment to honor the sacrifices of those who came before us and our commitment to the mission."
A non-commissioned officer in the squadron, U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Kameron Kirk, a cavalry scout, shared insights into the challenges and triumphs experienced during the deployment.
"Being part of this unit means being part of something larger than oneself. It's about duty, honor, and a sense of camaraderie. Our mission here in Europe is important, and every Blackhawks scout understands their role in making sure we are successful."
The birthday celebration highlighted the squadron's legacy. It served as a moment of calmness for the soldiers, a break from the demanding tasks associated with Operation European Assure Deter and Reinforce.
Betson further emphasized the importance of recognizing the squadron's contributions throughout history. "Our legacy is not just a collection of dates and battles; it's a living testament to the resilience and determination displayed by our streamers. Whether in Vietnam, the Gulf War, or our current deployment in Europe, we continue to uphold the proud legacy of the cavalry."
As the squadron faces the challenges of modern warfare in the European theater, the echoes of past victories resonate in the minds of its troops.
The Blackhawks remain committed to its mission, embodying the spirit of the cavalry's "eyes and ears" role within the 1st Armored Division.
The celebration, marking 191 years of existence and one of the oldest units in the U.S. Army, symbolized the squadron's ongoing commitment to duty and honor. And as the cavalry saying goes, "If you ain't cav', you ain't..." a sentiment that encapsulates the pride and dedication of being a Blackhawks troop as they conclude their mission in Europe.
The 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team maintains many combat-capable forces in Europe. It exists to deter aggression; if deterrence fails, stand shoulder-to-shoulder with our Allies and partners against that aggression. The 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, is forward deployed to Europe in support of the 3rd Infantry Division, V Corps at Drawsko Combat Training Center, Poland.
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