ARLINGTON – The West Point Black Knights donned the 1st Cavalry Division crest on their helmets and paid special tribute to the USA’s first team in the 2022 Commander’s Cup as they took on the USA Falcons Air Force Academy Nov. 5 in Arlington.
“This is an exciting event for several reasons,” began Maj. Gen. John B. Richardson IV, 1st Cav. Div. commanding general. “This is an opportunity to showcase the incredible history of the mounted division as well as the armored vehicle display with some of our finest soldiers.”
Soldiers from the Ironhorse Brigade demonstrated the most modern equipment in the U.S. Army, answered questions, and allowed the community to ride in the vehicles as 1st Cav. Div. The band pumped up the tailgate with rock performances.
“It’s great to be here in Arlington with the community and sharing with them what we’re doing on the tank,” Spc said. Danny Reyes, 2nd Squadron, 5th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team Tanker. “I love being a feeder and sharing that with people interested in joining one day and vets is amazing.”
Prior to the start of the game, 1st Cav. Div. drumline filled the stadium with beats as soldiers and airmen unfurled a large American flag and the 1st Air Cav. comic. The Blackhawks flew over.
“It’s great to be on the field with these young Air Force and Army cadets knowing they’re fighting through the game, but they’ve also volunteered to support and defend the States Constitution. United,” Richardson said. “I have a lot of respect for the paths they have chosen.”
The crowd roared with excitement as Richardson joined Command Sgt. Maj. Shade Munday, 1st Cav. Div. the Command Sergeant Major and the Mounted Cavalry Detachment as they rode their horses to deliver the game day ball to the referees.
After being honored at the halftime show, the Medal of Honor recipient and former 1st Cav. Div. Airmobile Colonel (Retired) Bruce Crandall met the Troopers holding the flag for the National Anthem at the start of the game.
“It was great to see so many soldiers here,” Crandall said, reflecting on his time serving heroically in the division.
The soldiers said they enjoyed spending time with Crandall and meeting his dog.
After the Falcons defeated the Black Knights 13-7, the crowd and cadets continued to check the static display of vehicles and talk to the soldiers as they left the stadium.
