They have the most modern equipment available. If they didn’t already have a motto, “Invest and Trust” would likely be it. They’re a multi-domain armored unit currently deployed in Europe and rapidly deployable to other locations around the globe in a moment’s notice. Last week, I was honored to sit down with the 1st Cavalry Division “First Team” and talk about military service and what Veterans Day means to them.

Veterans Day Reflection

11-11-11. The eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month in 1918 ended World War I.

Like most, I believe the Great War was both a tragedy and the moment that America’s military took center stage as a formidable superpower.

“It is a day of reflection, and a day of appreciation,” said Major General John B. Richardson IV, 1st Cavalry Division Commander. “I think about my family and their service, and I think about all the families… who have served since World War I.”

As a generational military man, Richardson knows the sacrifice and distinct honor that comes with serving our Nation.

“The U.S. Army is unique because Soldiers swear allegiance to an idea…an idea that’s captured in our constitution. To support. To defend. It’s such a privilege to see and work with the Soldiers in 1st CAV and to to work alongside those who raised their right hand to support this idea,” said Richardson.

“I take a step back and really honor the 1% of the men and women who volunteer to serve our great Nation,” said Command Sergeant Major Shane S. Munday, 1st Cavalry Division CSM. As the third generation of service in his family, Munday understands how his family helped to shape our military today.

The 30 Year Deployment

Both Munday and Richardson are well familiar with the sacrifices of both their own families and those who they lead. It is said that 1st CAV was deployed from 1943 until 1973, serving in Japan, Korea, and Vietnam in back-to-back conflicts around the world. More recently, the unit deployed in support of the Gulf War as well as campaigns in Iraq and Afghanistan during the Global War on Terror. For these endeavors, the unit proudly honors 44 Congressional Medal of Honor recipients and 46 separate campaign streamers.

Both Richardson and Munday said that when they think about Veterans Day, they think about the entire history of our military.

It’s an honor to reflect and think about the men and women who have served and currently serve our Nation,” said Munday.

Final Thoughts

Veterans Day is the day to honor the people who raised their right hand and said, “I will”. These two small words are the true power behind our military equipment. When Servicemembers say “I will”, they mean they are willing to die for their country. This is no small commitment and should not be taken lightly.

To those, past and present, who have uttered these words, thank you. You humble this old Soldier with your selfless commitment.

For More Information

Watch the 1st Cavalry Division full video on this week’s Your Next Mission^® video podcast episode on our website or on our YouTube channel.

Your Next Mission^® is a program initiative of the American Freedom Foundation, a non-profit
dedicated to serving our Veterans and Families. Your Next Mission^® video podcast with host
12th SMA (R) Jack L. Tilley features insightful conversation with subject matter experts from the
military and civilian communities. It’s a place where we can have frank and honest
conversation, tackle the tough questions, share stories, and have some fun along the way.