Horse Guard Celebrates Recruit Class Graduation

The Second Company Governor’s Horse Guard (2GHG) held a Military Graduation Ceremony at its headquarters located at Fairfield Hills, on June 29. The seven-member recruit class received graduation certificates and spurs after completing a 22-week basic training course. Edward Anuszewski, Michael Barton-Sweeney, Brian F Buckley, Leslie Damato, Elizabeth Milazzo, Kimberly L Peterson, and Cathleen Rebellowere all welcomed into the Troop as the newest 2GHG Privates.

The training course included military drill and ceremony, mounted and dismounted drill and equine studies. Training Officer 2LT Jennifer Mazzara and Training NCO Sgt Matthew Comeau taught the recruits Cavalry Drill, proper care of tack, care and grooming of the horses and Military Courtesy.

Attending dignitaries included Major Willian Offinger from the 1st Company Governor’s Foot Guard (1GFG), Major Michael Downes from the 1st Company Governor’s Horse Guard (1GHG). Former 2GHG Commandants Lt. Col. John Ungrady, Peter Moritz and Steven deFriesse were present; and Cpt. Sal Tarentino of the Second Continental Light Dragoons, as well as friends and family of 2GHG members and the recruit class all enjoyed the morning festivities.

After the ceremony, the new Privates were shown how to open a champagne bottle with a saber, courtesy of Lt Col Moritz. Each Private then successfully opened a bottle and a round of toasts followed. The new Privates then presented the Troop with a marble bench for the 2GHG grounds. The crowd moved inside and enjoyed food and drink; and then the new Privates learned their final lesson: How to cut cake with a saber. Their success at opening champagne and cutting the cake with a saber ensures a successful career as 2GHG members. They join the Troopers and Mounts of the 2GHG and remain, as always, “Ready to Serve.”