Warren continues CFD traditions

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  • By Staff Reports
  • 90th Missile Wing Public Affairs
F.E. WARREN AIR FORCE BASE, WYO. --  Warren has been a part of Cheyenne Frontier Days since its conception in 1897.

Cheyenne Frontier Days was first held Sept. 23, 1897, when Battery A, 76th Field Artillery, fired a cannon, alerting the crowd to head to the rodeo. The cannon was fired again, signifying the start of the rodeo. Throughout the day, a mock battle was preformed by Fort D.A. Russell troops.

The commander of the 1st Battalion, 8th Infantry Regiment, marched his troops into the arena. At the end of the battle, the 1st Regiment Band put on a concert at the train depot.

For the first 70 years, the military participated in every CFD. Infantry, cavalry, field artillery and service members each added to the event. The infantry staged mock battles and executed precision movements. The Air Force executed aeronautical acrobatics with their aircraft.

The military has also been a part of all the parades.

For the past 40 years, a significant military person is chosen to act as the Grand Marshall of the parades on the first Saturday of CFD. Lt. Gen. Frank Klotz, Air Force Global Strike Command commander, is this year's Grand Marshall.

The Thunderbirds have taken part of CFD since 1963, which is when they preformed their first public show. They have preformed a show every year since.

The CFD committee has always recognized the support the military has provided over the years, and since 1938, the military has had its own committee.

This year, as a tribute to the military support since Sept. 11, 2001, CFD will recognize the Wounded Warrior Project.

Sixteen years ago, base leadership decided an open house would be staged along with the Thunderbird show. This event was named Fort D.A. Russell Days. Annually, volunteer re-enactor's set up period camps depicting military activities from the early 1800s to present day. This open house is a time-line of camps showing the growth of military life and equipment from the 1800s.

Vehicles have been a part of the celebration since 1909, when the Cheyenne Motor Club hosted automobile races prior to the opening of the rodeo. This year, the 90th Force Support Squadron will host their annual car show during the base open house.
Cheyenne Frontier Days is a reflection of the support and cooperation brought by both the military and the Cheyenne communities working together.