The Troop's triple identity as a military, social and equestrian organization fosters strong bonds among its members. All Troopers share the experience of serving in the U.S. Army. The Troop's distinctive military esprit, now 230 years old, generates a strong feeling of unity and patriotic service. But in addition, the Troop's mantle extends through the social and equestrian worlds. All Troopers have the opportunity to ride and are encouraged to develop their horsemanship as their time and talent allows. The Troop's riders participate in events around the world. The FTPCC "home game" equestrian event is
the Border Plate horse show and trials, held each spring at a local hunt or farm. The Border Plate, as with several other of
the biggest Troop events, is for the whole family.The Troop's Philadelphia Armory is itself an important part of the Philadelphia social scene. The NCO Club and other gathering places host a wide variety of events. Good fellowship, food, and strong drink ensure a standard of hospitality that has been the talk of the town since the days of George Washington - himself an enthusiastic participant in Troop revels.
Today, Troopers can still make nearly any occasion an excuse for festivities. Popular events include debutante balls, song competitions, golf and shooting matches, an annual sail cruise on the Chesapeake, and the Troop's trademark formal military dinners. The close friendships formed among Troopers last a lifetime.
Networking
In their civilian lives, Troopers enjoy many professional and personal accomplishments. Although there is no such thing as a stereotypical Trooper, the fraternal relationships that develop in the Troop have led to strong representation in several leading professions. Many Troopers work in the financial world, in Philadelphia or on Wall Street. Others are attorneys. Troopers also work as writers, engineers, computer programmers, airline pilots, doctors, farmers, florists, fishermen, and plain old business executives. Some, too, serve full-time in the U.S. military.
Nearly every Trooper has found common interests with his fellows, enriching his personal and professional identity. And not just in the job world: the Troop is a mecca for military historians, for musicians, for gun collectors, and for lovers of fine wines.
Many Troopers are members of other landmark organizations such as the Sons of the Revolution, the Society of the Cincinnati, the Orpheus Club, the Savoy Club, the Racquet Club and the Union League - to name just a few. Such a network of relationships ensures that Troopers, individually and as a whole, play a leading role in Philadelphia and the nation's business, military and fraternal life, as First City Troopers have done ever since the Troop's founding in 1774.
Contact a recruiter for more information about membership.