The escort platoon is the essence of the history of our organization. Since our inception, the Philadelphia Light Horse has played critical roles in several revolutionary battles and has carried the Markoe Standard in front of returning war heroes from General Anthony Wayne to General Dwight D. Eisenhower. When you view the history displayed in our museum, you gaze upon pictorial displays of the First City Trooper in great numbers mounted and escorting prominent military and political leaders.
Learn Equestrian Skills
As the escort platoon builds on the past and prepares for the future, Troopers are offered a unique opportunity to be
a living part of the troop history and the Revolution. Although having an equestrian
background is not a requirement, there are plenty of programs available for troopers of any skill level.The Troop has maintained a working relationship with the Valley Forge Military Academy Equestrian Center which features a fully stocked stable of 38 horses trained in several equestrian disciplines. During the Fall and Winter months the Troop conducts practice rides on Tuesday nights. These lessons are paid for by the Troop and are an excellent way to introduce a beginner to the horse and perhaps inspire future Borderplate champions. New this year, VFMA has opened its polo lesson program to Troopers on Friday nights. For the adventurous Trooper, this out-of-pocket program provides superior instruction from one of the country's top polo players. In return for the polo instruction, the Troop will instruct VFMA cadets and Troopers in the fun sport of tent pegging. If you haven't heard of the sport, keep a look out for Saturday practices when we're not busy drilling.
Competition
To finish the spring in grand fashion, the escort platoon hosts the annual Borderplate competition. This Troop family favorite has recently returned to the Radnor Hunt Pony Club grounds in Malvern and affords the Troop a spectacular venue to showcase its equestrian talents. Troop classes are held which allow riders of all skill levels to compete. Teams of four compete in a mounted drill competition and individual riders can compete in the challenging hunter/jumper classes held in the ring and in open hunt country. There is also a skill-at-arms course to demonstrate the Troopers skill with standard cavalry weapons (pistol, saber, lance).
Responsibility
The escort platoon also maintains horses of its own for the use of Troopers in furthering their skills. Currently four horses are stabled at Northwestern Equestrian facility, at the top of the Wissahickon river in Philadelphia (Chestnut Hill), PA. Troopers are expected to learn the basics of horse care and practice them at Northwestern. The riding facility there has and indoor ring and access to Philadelphia's largest city park. The horses are available to Troopers for trail rides after they have demonstrated the necessary stable and riding skills to ensure rider and horse safety.
Parades and Reenactments
Besides the Borderplate and three dinner functions, the escort platoon provides mounted escorts of various military and political officials throughout the year. We also participate in parades and reenactments honoring the Revolution and battles in which the troop participated.
With all the prestige of the Troop, only a few gentlemen can be considered for membership in this elite platoon. Participation in escort platoon practices and functions is pivotal in consideration for membership. All members are encouraged to make every effort to participate in the perpetuation of history with the FTPCC.
Contact a recruiter for more information about membership.