Arizona’s “Rough Riders” To Commemorate Theodore Roosevelt’s Many Accomplishments

Date: October 14, 2015
Contact: Caleb Kesler, 928-567-5276 x222

National Park ServiceNews Release

For Immediate Release –OCTOBER 14, 2015
Caleb Kesler, Chief Ranger, MOCA/TUZI, 928-567-5276 x222

Camp Verde, AZ –Montezuma Castle National Monument

Arizona's "Rough Riders" To Commemorate Theodore Roosevelt's Many Accomplishments

On Saturday, Oct. 24, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Troop 1A of the Arizona Rough Riders Historical Association will commemorate the birthday and accomplishments of President Theodore Roosevelt and the contributions of northern Arizona's all-volunteer "Rough Riders" during the Spanish-American War of 1898.

During the morning session, members of Troop 1A will outline Colonel Roosevelt's military career including his recruiting, training, and leading of the First Volunteer Cavalry of the Spanish-American War. The life of Prescott's William Owen (Buckey) O'Neill, the first citizen to volunteer and also the captain of Troop A, will also be addressed. The commemorative group will present informal presentations on the war, the era, social norms, and contributions of northern Arizona's Troop A, the first volunteers in the country to fill recruitment quotas in 1898.

From noon to 3 p.m., visitors will have an opportunity to discuss the era with members of Troop 1A, and review period military gear, dress, and accessories of the late 1800s. Ladies of Troop 1A will focus on the social customs and conventions of the era.

Regular admission fees apply, but there is no additional charge for the special program. All Federal recreation passes are accepted, including the annual, access, senior and military pass;children age 15 and under are free.

The National Park Service celebrates its 100^th Anniversary in 2016. Over 20,000 National Park Service employees care for America's 408 national parks and monuments and create close-to-home recreational and cultural opportunities.

Montezuma Castle National Monument is located off I-17, exit 289 at 2800 Montezuma Castle Road, Camp Verde. For further information, call 928-567-3322, extension zero, visit www.nps.gov/moca or follow us at www.facebook.com/MontezumaNPS.

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