Breaking in the Cavalry Stetson
           The Stetson hat is worn by those in US Cavalry units dating back to the 1800's. It is unique to the US Army and is usually decorated with the soldier's rank, badge, and the crossed sabers insignia of their unit.  It is also adorned with pins of previous unitsand vehicles or , in our case, our aircraft.  Commissioned Officers have a gold band, Warrant Officers a silver and black braid (CW3's and above have a solid silver braid), and Enlisted a yellow braid.  Those who have been in combat with the Cav have a knot tied in the front of the braid, just short of the two "chestnuts" and may wear spurs on their boots. One can also earn their spurs by participating in an activity known as the Spur Ride.
 
                                                      It is a tradition that a soldier not wear their new
                                      Stetson until it has been properly treated by the members of the unit.
 
                                            
                                              Members of the Horsemen (E Troop) at the club at Camp Stanton
                                               visible are CW2 Ralph Mollette, Kim Rutledge, CW3 Kirk Ennis,
                                               Lt. Josh Bryan and others
                            
 
                               My new Stetson receiving offerings as CW3 Kirk Ennis presides over the ritual. 

                            
              Our E Troop Commander, "Wild Bill" Girard donates              Time to drink up!
               an offering. CW3 Randy Morris stands by.
 

                           
                             'Welcome to the Cav!"                            CW3 Steve Black, myself,  & Chris Laguna
                           
                                Wondering "What did you guys put in there?" as CW2 Jeff Jones laughs
                                                   
                                     Myself and CW2 Steve Hooper, who is on his way back to the States.

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