The Second Company Governor’s Horse Guard is now accepting applications for the fall Recruit Class beginning August 25.

Applicants must be between 18 and 55 and in good physical condition and must pass a background check. A recruit Open House is scheduled for Saturday, July 21, at horse guard headquarters adjacent to the Fairfield Hills campus.

The horse guard is an all-volunteer state militia unit, serving the Governor and the State of Connecticut under the direction of the Connecticut National Guard. The Second Company is one of the oldest cavalry units in continuous service in the United States and members are dedicated to preserving Cavalry traditions.

The 35 troopers and 33 mounts practice mounted military drill year round in authentic 1928 model McClellan saddles – the last issued by the U.S. Army.

The horse guard is not a re-enactment group, but rather an active cavalry unit representing the Connecticut National Guard in ceremonies and parades, including the inauguration of the Governor of Connecticut and some Presidential inaugurals. Troopers attend weekly mounted drill and average 500 hours of service per year.

Second Company members recently completed training provided by the Connecticut Department of Emergency Management (CERT) and Homeland Security for first responders during catastrophic events. Training included Disaster Preparedness, Disaster Medical Operations, Disaster Psychology and Fire Safety. Ongoing training will be available to active troopers. Members also have the opportunity to participate in Basic Non-Commissioned Officer (BNOC) training along with other units of the Connecticut National Guard.

The guard runs a therapeutic riding program, Saddle Up For Life, and also provides Honor Guards for funerals for active and veterans soldiers in the State of Connecticut.

Mandatory Annual Training is held for one week at the National Guard Facility at Camp Rell. The entire troop and mounts, tack and provisions are moved by convoy from Newtown to Niantic. Annual Training may include use of Stone’s Military Reservation and the indoor range using simulated automatic weapons.

In addition, the Second Company, a 501c(3) non-profit association. sponsors many activities and programs including an annual Horse Show, an Open House (during which the Troop drill team performs), a Judged Pleasure Ride and a fundraising trail ride for St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.

Applicants who are accepted as recruits will complete a 24-week training program in military drill and ceremony, mounted and dismounted drill and equine studies. No experience necessary – training is comprehensive.

For more information, contact training officer Second Lieutenant Jennifer Taylor at (203) 364-0697 or email her at horseoff@thehorseguard.com.