The Second Company Governor’s Horse Guard (2GHG) Recruit Graduation took place on the 2GHG grounds at Fairfield Hills on Sunday, June 25. It was the culmination of five months of training, which took place each weekend beginning in February. The training included military drill, ceremony mounted and dismounted drill, and equine studies.

The graduates were Privates Michelle Doyle, Nadia Gluch, Alycia Matchen, Desiree Lee, and Tracey Pertoso, each of whom was presented with their cavalry spurs and graduation certificates.

Newtown First Selectman Daniel Rosenthal joined with past commandants and other distinguished guests, as well as cadet families, in honor of the new troopers.

To learn more about the Horse Guard, and hear about the next recruiting class, everyone is welcome to join the Fall Festival, which will take place at the Horse Guard grounds on Saturday, September 9. Previously called the 2GHG Open House, the Fall Festival will include more fun, children’s activities, and horse demonstrations. Details may be found on the Friends of the Second Company Governor’s Horse Guard’s Facebook page or by calling 203-270-6203.

The 2GHG will also attend the For the love of Horses event organized by the Catherine Violet Hubbard Animal Sanctuary, on Saturday, July 15. Anyone who is considering becoming a rider, is a lifelong equestrian, or simply loves the majestic beauty of horses is invited to join for this incredible free community event celebrating Newtown’s equestrian history. Meet and interact with the horses, learn equine care through hands-on demonstrations, and experience an official color guard opening by the horses and Troopers of the 2GHG.

The 2GHG is an all-volunteer state organized militia unit, originally chartered in 1808 to protect and escort the governor. As an active cavalry unit, 2GHG continues to serve the governor and the state of Connecticut at the direction of the Connecticut Army National Guard, under the command of the adjutant general.