TH:         What are your responsibilities as a trooper?

DO:         “You must commit yourself to many hours of service and training.  To be proficient in troop history, equine health and safety, care of tack (saddles, bridle etc.), drill and  

                 ceremony horsemanship, mounted drill, and firearms.”  

TH:         How does the First Company find people who are interested in becoming troopers?   

DO:     DO           “We advertise and hold an open house where interested individuals can take a look around, ask questions and learn about the commitment that is required. Based on the needs of

                 the troop, individuals will be selected and interviewed. If selected you will soon start the training process that will last approximately 16 weeks.”

TH:         Tell me about the 16 weeks of intense training?

DO:     DO:         “This is when you will learn about troop history, equine health and safety, care of tack (saddles, bridle etc.), drill and ceremony, horsemanship, mounted drill, and firearms

                as mentioned above.  There are countless inspections, tests and an oral board to pass prior to becoming a trooper.  It is a very satisfying experience to go through the rigors of

                training and then to be honored by being selected as a trooper.  I smile each time I drive onto the reservation for drill.  To have an opportunity to participate in one of the country's

                oldest and unique military organizations as a vital part of our state and national history.  To ride in the cavalry tradition and promote patriotism and sense of community at

                events statewide."

TH:         What was the most difficult part?

DO:        “Learning to ride and care for the horses.”  

TH:         Did anything surprise you?

DO:     DO:       “Learning about the horses. Identifying their body posture for illness or if they are angry/nervous and understanding

                their personalities"

TH:         Was there something that you learned about yourself?

DO:        “That you can get real bad saddle sores from just one long ride in the summer.”

TH:          What do you most enjoy about being a trooper for the First Company Governor’s Horse Guards?

DO:         "I believe that each of us should serve our country, state or community in some capacity.  To be engaged in activities

                 that makes a difference.  Being a member of a militia unit with a deep and rich history nearly dating back to the

                 War of Independence. I am so proud to be serving the state of Connecticut in this way, alongside so many other

                 members that quietly give so much of their personal time, knowledge and resources to ensure that our programs

                and historic traditions carry on."   

                          *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *

                A trooper is defined as a soldier mounted on horseback; a cavalryman who always takes care of his mount.  Thank you Trooper O’Flaherty for your dedication and commitment to the citizens of Connecticut. 

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