First Troop Philadelphia City Cavalry facts for kids
The First Troop Philadelphia City Cavalry, also known as the First City Troop, is a special military unit. It's part of the Pennsylvania Army National Guard. This troop is one of the oldest military groups in the United States that is still active today. It's also one of the most awarded units in the U.S. Army.
What makes the First City Troop unique?
- Its members and officers are chosen by election.
- They volunteer their military service without taking pay.
- They still practice old horse cavalry skills.
- Many members are veterans from other military branches.
- Some older professionals also join.
The First City Troop is the only U.S. military unit that owns its own armory building. This building was built with private money in Philadelphia's Rittenhouse Square area. As of November 2017, the troop had 46 active members.
Contents
A Look at the Troop's History
The First Troop Philadelphia City Cavalry began in 1774. It was first called the Light Horse of the City of Philadelphia. This was one of the first groups formed to help the American cause during the American Revolution.
Founding and Early Days
Abraham Markoe was the person who started the Philadelphia Light Horse. He was also its first Captain. Early members came from different social groups in the area.
Serving in the Revolution
During the American Revolution, the troop fought in many important battles. These included the battles of Trenton, Princeton, Brandywine, and Germantown. The troop often served as George Washington's personal bodyguards. They also helped save James Wilson during a riot known as the "Battle of Fort Wilson."
The Civil War Years
The First City Troop was called to active duty several times during the American Civil War. They were involved in the 1861 Campaign, which led to the First Battle of Bull Run. During the Gettysburg Campaign, the troop did scouting work. This was before the Battle of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania in late June 1863. Later, they protected the Columbia-Wrightsville Bridge from Confederate forces.
World War I and Beyond
General John J. Pershing once said that no other National Guard group did more in the First World War than the First City Troop. This shows how important their service was.
Modern Day Service
Today, the First City Troop continues to serve. They deploy overseas with the Pennsylvania National Guard. They support U.S. Army operations around the world. Since the attacks of 9/11, the unit has been to places like Bosnia, Iraq, Egypt, and Kuwait. Parts of the unit have also served in Afghanistan, the Persian Gulf, Europe, and Latin America.
Joining the troop is done by election. Soldiers who are active members still give their drill pay back to the unit. This helps keep alive their tradition of voluntary service. The troop gets its members from Troop A, 1st Squadron, 104th Cavalry Regiment. This regiment is part of the 28th Infantry Division (United States) of the Pennsylvania Army National Guard.
Battle Streamers: Awards for Service
Battle streamers are special ribbons or flags. They are attached to a unit's flag to show the battles and campaigns they have fought in. Here are some of the battles the First Troop has been awarded streamers for:
Revolutionary War
- Trenton
- Princeton
- Brandywine
- Germantown
- New Jersey 1776
- New Jersey 1777
- Pennsylvania 1777
Civil War
- Peninsula
- Manassas
- Antietam
- Fredericksburg
- Gettysburg
- Wilderness
- Spotsylvania
- Cold Harbor
- Petersburg
- Shenandoah
- Appomattox
- Virginia 1861
- Virginia 1862
- Virginia 1863
- Virginia 1864
- Maryland 1863
- Pennsylvania 1863
War with Spain
- Puerto Rico
World War I
- Ypres-Lys
- Champagne-Marne
- Aisne-Marne
- Oise-Aisne
- Meuse-Argonne
- Champagne 1918
- Lorraine 1918
World War II
- Northern France
- Central Europe
Operation Enduring Freedom
- Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Streamer
