Farewell, 1-4 CAV

Today, we said farewell to our second tour with "the CAV". This morning, Nick relinquished his Command of Apache (formally Anvil) Troop, 1st Squadron, 4th US Cavalry Regiment. I think it's possible that Nick holds the record for positions held within the same Troop of the same Squadron. Nick has held the positions of Tank Platoon Leader, Scout Platoon Leader, Executive Officer, and Troop Commander all in A Troop, 1-4 CAV. Really, it's just a strange coincidence that Nick took Command of this Troop when it moved from Germany, but it must have been fate! His time with the Troop has really been memorable, and it is bittersweet for us to move on.



Before the ceremony, Nick's commander, LTC Jim Crider awarded him with the Meritorious Service Medal for his time Commanding in 1-4 CAV. Sophie loves to have her picture taken, and as you can see, she is waving to the camera! We were really lucky to have Nick's parents join us for the occasion. Between three adults, we were able to keep Ben and Sophie still for the ceremony. Unfortunately, we didn't get a picture taken with all of us.

If you aren't familiar with Army tradition, this was your typical ceremony. The guidon (red and white flag pictured below) belongs to Nick's Troop, and flies wherever Nick is located. It was outside his office while he was at work, and was also in Iraq with him. Here Nick is taking the guidon from his 1st Sergent. After Nick took the guidon, he then passed it to the Squadron Commander who in turn presented it to the incoming Troop Commander. Then the Squadron Commander made some nice comments about Nick. Next Nick made a speech about his time in Command. Finally, the incoming Commander made a few short remarks.

Here is Nick, his Squadron Commander and the incomming Troop Commander, CPT Adkins.

We have so many memories with 1-4 CAV, it will seem strange to move on. But, I know that it is time. We have spent 6 long years (some longer than others) with this unit. Our next unit is going to take us in very different directions, but we are up for the challenge. As Nick said when he closed his speech today, "Apache 6 Out!"