My grandfather never lived to be a grandfather. He died when my mother was just 13. But he left behind memories of fine horse-related accomplishments and a legacy of love of riding.
I remember stories of my grandfather, Woods King, on this Memorial Day. Most of the stories don't have to do with his military service but of the fun he'd have with his horses and the care he took of them. I think he managed to pass those ideas down a few generations.
Photos here are from the 1930's:
At a costumed event, he is a knight with his bride-to-be (my Grannie), Louise Baldwin.
Also, he was photographed playing a fun game of sorts with ball and basket. (In the enlarged photo, one sees the ball dropping into the basket. Score!)
I love the photo of him riding three horses, just for the sheer 'Yikes' factor!
He was a pivotal member of the oldest mounted police unit in the country, the
Cleveland Mounted Police.
Before World War II, it was an Ohio National Guard unit. Then it was absorbed into the Army as the 107th Cavalry Regiment, which he led.
The Cleveland Mounties have paraded in Presidential Inaugurations in Washington D.C., won a World Championship in Chicago and represented the United States in an international competition in Mexico City.
In 1989, the Cleveland Mounted Police was the only mounted police unit invited to march in the inaugural parade of George H.W. Bush after the parade committee ranked it No. 1 in the Country.
My grandfather left the Army as a Brigadier General and was discharged with a heart condition in 1946. As my mom recalled, he came home from the war and died.
While I feel far removed from the society in which he moved, I nonetheless feel connected through our beloved partners in work and play.
Rest In Peace. Your love of horses lives on!
So when are we going to be seeing you, Maddy, riding 3 horses??
Very nice story and the pics are GREAT! Thank you for sharing!
Maddy, thank you so much for sharing these memories of your grandfather. Looks like horses are in your blood! :)
Maddy you're too much! Only one with such true horse in her heart would consider how others could appreciate the beauty of you sharing this legendary mans photos with all the horsemen and horsewomen in this world, thank-you so much appreciated!
A wonderful tribute. I guess we now know where at least a part of your caring and leadership comes from! Thanks for sharing this. -KC