America’s First Team celebrated their 100th Birthday this morning with a cake cutting ceremony. Commanders and Troopers gathered at Cooper Field on Fort Hood (Now designated Fort Cavazos) to begin festivities in honor of the division’s centennial.
The 1st Cavalry Division was formally activated on Sep. 13, 1921 at Fort Bliss, Texas. The division, originally a mounted division, distinguished themselves as the “First Team” when 1st Cavalry Division was first in Manila in February 1945, the first to lead occupational forces into Japan making it the “First in Tokyo” in September 1945, and the first in Pyongyang in October 1950.
“This week and next week is about unit pride, pride in the 1st Cavalry Division, and pride in the regiment,” said Maj. Gen. John B. Richardson, commanding general, 1CD. “This birthday is about remembering our past and remembering our heroes. We will live up to the legacy that was set before us.”
Next week the 1st Cavalry Division will host festivities across its footprint to celebrate and commemorate veterans who served in the division during various conflicts. Throughout the week Veterans have an opportunity to come on post and visit with current Troopers and exchange shared experiences while serving with the First Team. Additionally, there will be several events hosted by 1CD’s six separate brigades as part of “CAV Week” to commemorate its 100 year legacy.
During next week’s “CAV Week,” the division and subordinate brigades will host sports competitions, a division run, a race with unit colors, a 5k race down Legends Way, static displays of past and present equipment. The week will conclude with a parade and the notable special cavalry charge with a flyover.
“It’s an exciting time to be part of the 1st Cavalry Division, every Trooper will take part in the celebration, which offers an opportunity to appreciate our rich history,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Shade S. Munday, command sergeant major, 1CD. “The First Team is the most lethal division because of our Troopers, past and present, and it will continue to be for the next 100 years.”
For any questions please contact the 1st Cavalry Division Public Affairs office at 254-287-9400 or email Master Sgt. Miriam Espinoza at miriam.espinozatorres.mil@army.mil or Maj. Terez Little at terez.m.terez.mil@mail.mil
