Theodore Roosevelt conceived the idea of raising a cavalry regiment recruited from businessmen, cowboys and outdoorsmen.

It was during the Battle of San Juan Hill, on July 1, that the Rough Riders, under the command of Lt Col Roosevelt, made their mark in American military history.

Ordered to seize Kettle Hill in support of the main attack, the Rough Riders fought their way to the top despite heavy enemy fire.

After taking the hill, the Rough Riders continued their attack, seizing the heights overlooking the city of Santiago.

The heritage of the 2nd Squadron, 1st U.S. Volunteer Cavalry, is perpetuated by the 200th Air Defense Artillery, New Mexico Army National Guard.http://www.ng.mil/resources/photo_gallery/heritage/roughriders.html