Pony rides and demonstrations took place during the Second Company Governor's Horse Guard's (2GHG) open house, on its Fairfield Hills property, on June 25. Equestrian enthusiasts of all ages learned a little about the 2GHG - its troopers, horses, and the history behind the Horse Guard, chartered in 1808.at risk of being slashed in the state budgetTroopers from the 2GHG care for ten horses and raise money to care for them, relying on state funding for a majority of the costs to run the facility, which is

"It's a good family thing for people to come in and get to know us and see what we do," said Private First Class Bonnie Cypher. "It's fun. It's a lot of work but it' a lot of fun. But that's the general attitude around here."

PFC Cypher pointed out that the troopers work together on and off the horses, adding, "We're a family."

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The Horse Guard's primary mission is to serve the governor and the State of Connecticut as a dress and ceremonial Unit of the Connecticut Army National Guard. 2GHG is also dedicated to community service and preserving the traditions of the Cavalry in Connecticut. During the open house, the community got a good look at some of what the troopers do.

"It allows the community to come see the horses and troopers up close," 2GHG Major James Marrinan said.

Members of the Quilts of Valor Foundation, with a mission to cover service members and veterans touched by war with comforting and healing Quilts of Valor, presented a quilt to Private First Class Anilton Aviz.

Private First Class Mark Burns wore a 100-plus-year-old cavalry uniform and showed attendees early 1900s saddles.

Troopers performed reenactments, Ed Prybylski of Happy Trails Farm in Danbury did a Garrocha Pole Training demo, and horse trainer Rebecca Howard-Hathaway demonstrated bareback and bridleless riding on Kokopelli, owned by Kelly Hitt, who keeps her horse at Zoar Ridge Stables and Rescue.

"It's a very educational thing for the public," added retired Major Gordon Johnson, who served with the 2GHG for 15 years before stepping down about a year ago, but continues to be involved as president of the Friends of the Second Company Governor's Horse Guard.