SHREVEPORT, La. - Select troopers headquartered in Shreveport completed a historic journey at Camp Minden in June.
More than 40 troopers completed the fifth annual Cavalry Spur Ride at Camp Minden during their required annual two-week training. The spur ride consisted of a 12-mile journey consisting of various Warrior Training Tasks and battle drills, which included land navigation, first aid, weapons familiarization and military communications operations.
"These soldiers were tasked with the strenuous duty of navigating to various stations along a 12-mile course by foot, back-packing a rucksack that weighed at least 30 pounds, while simultaneously focusing on missions such as assembling the M2 .50 caliber machine gun and calling in a 9-line medical evacuation," said Maj. Jonathan Lloyd, squadron commander. "These stations consisted of assigned WTTs and battle drills and were evaluated by current spur holders who have already completed the process."
After the candidates completed the 12-hour "ride," Lloyd and Command Sgt. Maj. Albert Vanzant, squadron senior enlisted advisor, lead the formation of proud spur holders into Forward Operating Base Geronimo on the grounds of Camp Minden. As the troopers marched into the area, they received a roaring welcome from all the troopers in the squadron.
"As I marched into the FOB, I felt proud for making my unit looked good," said Pfc. David Morris of Sterlington, D Company, 2-108th. "It is usually expected that an infantryman or a cavalry scout will finish first. But being a member of a unit that's mission is forward support, I got to prove that an FSC can lead the way."
That evening, the troopers were rewarded with a steak dinner served by the spur cadre and given certificates of completion from the command team. The coveted silver spurs will be awarded during the squadron's annual cavalry ball in September.
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