Traditional Spur Ride

All Soldiers assigned or under the operational control of a Cavalry Task

Force earn the right to wear spurs in one of two ways. In the first case,

Soldiers must complete a spur ride, which is a series of events to test

their mettle, competence, and dedication to the unit. Soldiers wear silver

spurs to commemorate this event. In the second case, any Soldier assigned or

under the operational control of a Cavalry Task Force in combat earn the

right to wear gold spurs to Cavalry functions. The spur tradition dates back

to the Indian Wars on the plains. It is a unique item of heraldry for our

Soldiers and they wear spurs with great pride. We wear English spurs, which

only have a small, round spur. This did not injure the animal. Western spurs

have sharp wheels, which had a tendency to injure the animal. In many cases,

Cavalry Troopers fed and watered their horses long before they had a meal or

water for themselves. They understood the importance of taking care of their

mobility.

For how you can assist in purchasing spurs for the soldiers in the cavalry squadron (approximately $25 with shipping), contact Carol.  This has always been a funded tradition which has been cut.  The leaders are currently trying to find a creative way (through private donations) to purchase spurs for their soldiers.  You might want to consider helping.