The major "objective" of the U.S. Cavalry Association is to preserve the history, equipment, heritage and traditions of the cavalry from Revolutionary War to the present. Throughout the history of our great nation the cavalry has ridden to the call of "Boots and Saddles" and has performed it's missions heroically. Its contributions to the development of our nation and the preservation of peace are unparalleled in the annals of military history. It is the Association's desire to capture and keep alive these traditions, which were so much a part of the life and times of the cavalryman.

As early as the 1860s" cavalry troop commanders were required to conduct mounted saber and pistol courses twice a year. The names of the two best troopers in each company were announced in regimental orders. In the 1880s" a Colonel Laidley created and Army-wide marksmanship program, resulting in the first marksmanship badges. Competitions were help at post, department and Army levels. In the 1920s" the Goodrich Trophy was created to recognize the best cavalry troop, based on weapons proficiency and other tasks. In the 1930s" Posts always held field days and horse shows that included jumping and dressage demonstrations. Until the outbreak of World War II" the nation's Olympic equestrian team was composed primarily of cavalrymen. Today the army still has a marksmanship program. The Rangers Regiment has its Ranger Challenge. Tank crewman use their gunnery skills to compete for Howze Trophy. But with the advent of mechanization, cavalry competition, along with its history, was gone. But no more.

The U.S. Cavalry Association has begun preparation to reinstate the glory days of the cavalry and turn back history. In keeping with its mission, It Offers the call and challenge to trooper's nation wide, "Boots and Saddles". The sounds of horses and the sight of military riders being tested in martial equitation skills will once again grace the historic grounds of Ft. Sill, Oklahoma. The United States Cavalry Association is proud to present "The 2002 National Cavalry Competition" from Wednesday 17 April - Saturday 20 April 2002.

Competition will take place at the Ft. Sill Polo Field and what has been called one of the greatest cavalry training grounds in the "U.S." Rucker Park. Rucker Park was designed and built in 1930 to train the 1936 Olympic Team. Before Ft. Sill was the home of the field artillery, it was occupied by many cavalry regiments that were renowned in pride and accomplishment. The spectacle of military horseman engaged in trials of skill has always been one of grandeur, grace and thrilling action. This event will be no different. The National Cavalry Competition will be open to active-reserve-retired military, living historians, reenactors, mounted police officers and modern day competitors such as three day eventers. One of the criteria to compete is that any competitor must compete in a military or police uniform from any era including modern. "Revolutionary War period thru WWII 1940s" along with the appropriate tack. (Third Reich/Nazi impressions will not be permitted.) Only one saddle & horse is allowed per rider. Rules and regulations will be "forthcoming" and will also be available at the U. S. Cavalry Association website.

Other activities will include 100 years of time line encampment, all periods of cavalry camps on display. Sponsors and sutlers to "display. Opening ceremony with "pass in review". Friday night "silent auction" and dinner. Saturday "awards banquet" and "induction ceremonies." The "Association" is looking for staff organizers and volunteers.For information on attendance and to order a registration packet, you can contact us at.United States Cavalry Association, P.O. Box 2325 Fort Riley Kansas 66442785-784-5797 Web site http://www.uscavalry.org -- email cavalry@flinthills.com