FORT CAVAZOS, Texas — Troopers with 2nd Battalion, 7th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division took a break from their intensive tank gunnery training to welcome their families for a special Family Day event at Fort Cavazos, Texas, Aug. 25, 2024. This event provided an opportunity for loved ones to see firsthand the demanding work their Soldiers do and to experience the camaraderie of the Army community.
More than 40 families gathered to connect with their Soldiers and gain insight into the rigorous training they undergo. The day was filled with military demonstrations and family-oriented activities, aimed at strengthening the bond between Soldiers and their families while offering a glimpse into their daily lives on the field.
“I joined the Army to better my life and my family’s,” said Pfc. Cody Rogers, an M1 Armor Crewman assigned to Charlie Company, 2nd Battalion, 7th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division. "Having them here, seeing what I do, means everything to me. My son loves tanks, and now he gets to see them up close—it’s a dream come true for him."
The Family Day event allowed Soldiers and their loved ones to reconnect after several days of demanding training.
"This event is about giving families a chance to see what their Soldiers do and letting them know they’re part of this larger Army family," said 1st Lt. Logan Amico, the family readiness representative for 2nd Battalion, 7th Cavalry Regiment. "It’s important for us to show that we’re here for them and that their support is vital to what we do."
The day’s activities included guided tours of tanks and Bradley Fighting Vehicles, demonstrations of the Soldiers' weapon systems, and opportunities for families to speak with their loved ones' leaders. For many, it was their first time seeing the equipment and environment their Soldiers work in daily.
“It’s hot out here, but it’s worth every moment to show our love and support,” said Felicia Nowoslawski, wife of Capt. Nicholas Nowoslawski, commander of Charlie Troop. “I’m so proud of what these Soldiers are doing, and today gives us a chance to really appreciate their hard work.”
The event also featured a barbecue provided by the Veterans of Foreign Wars, or VFW, giving Soldiers a break from their usual field rations. "Having hot food prepared by the VFW is such a blessing," said 1st Lt. Amico. "It’s a small gesture that goes a long way in lifting spirits out here."
As Family Day came to a close, the Soldiers prepared to continue their gunnery qualifications, but the time spent with their loved ones served as a reminder of why they train so hard. For both the Soldiers and their families, the event highlighted the strong sense of community that defines military life.
"We do this for our families," Rogers said. "Days like this remind us of the support we have and why we push ourselves every day."
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