CT Cavalry Unit To Have Open House In Avon

AVON, CT — The weather is supposed to be beautiful Saturday, though crisp, but it's still perfect conditions to pay the First Co. Governor's Horse Guard a visit.

The state-operated cavalry unit, which is the oldest continuously serving cavalry unit in the country at 244 years, is hosting an open house at its Avon headquarters at 280 Arch Road, Avon.

The event is free and will take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 8.

The horse guard is a cavalry division of the Connecticut Military Department and its history dates back to providing safe escorts to Connecticut governors when the U.S. became a nation.

These days, it's purposes are more ceremonial and the horse guard, which is supported by a litany of volunteers, is a regular participant of large parades and other ceremonies in the state.

It's stables and headquarters are located in Avon and tours of those facilities will be available for guests during the open house.

In addition, there will be military vehicles on display, as well as live demonstrations from Connecticut's 928th Military Working Dogs unit.

One of the day's biggest highlights is an 11 a.m. showing of the touching, animated movie "Sgt. Stubby: An American Hero," which is based on a true story about a military canine mascot who made his mark with American troops in World War I.

Families are asked to bring some blankets and pillows to the showing.

For more information on Saturday's event, call 860-673-3525.

For more information on the First Co. Governor's Horse Guard, click on this link.

For the First Co. Governor's Horse Guard Facebook page, click on this link.