Spur Ride 2014 ...

What is a Spur Ride?

"The tradition of having to "earn your spurs" reaches back to the beginning of the cavalry. When green Troopers first arrived at their new cavalry assignments they were assigned a horse with a shaved tail. This led to the nickname "Shave Tail" for newly assigned, spur-less Soldiers. These new Troopers were in need of extensive training, especially in the area of swordsmanship from atop a horse. The horse with a shaved tail was given extra space in which to operate since its rider was marked as an amateur. During this phase of training the Troopers were not allowed to wear spurs because this would only serve to compound their problems. Only when they were able to prove their ability to perform with their horse and saber were they awarded spurs."

"The Spur Ride is the only means of joining the Order of the Spur, aside from a wartime induction. The conduct of a Spur Ride varies but it is generally an event held over multiple days during which a Trooper must pass a series of physical and mental tests relevant to the Cavalry. Some of the tests evaluate leadership, technical and tactical proficiency, physical fitness, the ability to operate as part of a team under high levels of stress and fatigue under both day and night conditions, though the specific tests vary by unit. A written test is often also administered, with questions that cover United States Cavalry and unit history. During the Spur Ride, candidates are also often required to recite from memory the traditional cavalry poem, "Fiddler's Green", or other traditions or historical information pertaining to the Cavalry.

The criteria for participation in the Spur Ride are set by each Cavalry unit, usually at the Squadron level. Many units require demonstrated leadership ability through planning and conducting unit-level training events such as gunnery ranges, soldier task training or other non-commissioned and commissioned officer-level tasks. Some examples of minimum criteria are:

• Score a minimum of 250 on the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT).
• Meet height and weight requirements of AR 600-9.
• Qualify "Expert" with primary weapon (generally a M9 or M16/M4).We are very proud of Steven for earning his Spurs.

• Be recommended by Troop First Sergeant and Commander." ~Wikipedia 

We are so proud Steven for accomplishing something that very few even attempt!

He completed the Panther Recon 5-73 Calvary Spur Ride!

It is a grueling 24 hour period of combat conditions.

The Cav Scouts who complete it are awarded their silver spurs.

*Photos from the Panther Recon 5-73 Facebook Page*

Steven is pictured here fourth from the left.

One of the tasks they must complete is the assembling of a rifle while blindfolded.

Steven is pictured here all the way to the left, first in the third row back.

 We are so proud of you
Sgt. Needham 
A Troop 5-73 CAV, 3BCT, 82 Airborne Division.

* HONOR * FIDELITY * COURAGE *