The Untold Stories of the Mounted Service School Fort Riley Kansas in 1914-1915

Fort Riley, located in Kansas, is known for its rich military history. Among the pivotal moments that shaped Fort Riley's legacy, the existence of the Mounted Service School in 1914-1915 stands out as an often overlooked chapter.

The Mounted Service School, established in 1911, was a groundbreaking institution that aimed to provide comprehensive training in horsemanship and cavalry tactics to young officers. As the United States was preparing for potential conflicts abroad, the school played an instrumental role in shaping the military prowess of American cavalry units.

The Formation of the Mounted Service School

In 1914, the Mounted Service School underwent significant changes as it expanded its curriculum to meet the evolving demands of modern warfare. The arrival of Lieutenant Colonel Theodore Roosevelt Jr., son of former President Theodore Roosevelt, as the school's commandant brought new vigor and enthusiasm to the institution.

Diary of the Instructor in Swordsmanship: AT THE MOUNTED SERVICE SCHOOL, FORT RILEY KANSAS 1914-1915

by Victoria Bond(Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	8261 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	67 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

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At the time, the school was tasked with training officers for combat in World War I. The curriculum encompassed various aspects of horsemanship, including riding techniques, horse care, and the use of cavalry weapons. In addition, it emphasized the importance of teamwork and leadership in cavalry units.

A Glimpse into the Daily Life at the School

Life at the Mounted Service School in Fort Riley was rigorous yet exhilarating. A typical day began at dawn, with officers engaging in intense training sessions on horseback. They honed their equestrian skills, learning to perform intricate formations and maneuvers that were essential in combat scenarios.

Throughout the day, officers attended lectures and engaged in discussions on military strategy, cavalry tactics, and the implementation of new technologies in warfare. From horse-mounted signals to the utilization of machine guns, the school ensured that officers were well-versed in the latest military advancements.

In their free time, officers often explored the vast landscape surrounding Fort Riley, enjoying the natural beauty of Kansas. They formed bonds with their fellow colleagues, forging friendships that would last a lifetime. These moments of camaraderie provided a much-needed respite from the demanding training schedule.

The Legacy of the Mounted Service School

Although the Mounted Service School existed for only a brief period, its impact on the development of the United States military cannot be overstated. The knowledge and skills imparted to the officers during their time at the school would go on to influence their military careers and shape the future of American cavalry tactics.

Many of the officers who attended the school went on to play crucial roles in World War I. Their expertise in horsemanship and cavalry tactics proved invaluable as they commanded troops on the battlefields of Europe. The Mounted Service School had successfully prepared them for the challenges that lay ahead.

Additionally, the Mounted Service School set the precedent for future military training institutions. Its emphasis on comprehensive horsemanship coupled with a deep understanding of military strategy became a cornerstone of subsequent programs. The school's legacy can be seen in the training protocols and techniques used by the United States Army even to this day.

Preserving the Memory of the Mounted Service School

Although the Mounted Service School ceased operations after 1915, its memory lives on. Fort Riley, with its rich history, recognizes the contributions of this iconic institution. The post's museum and archives display artifacts and documents related to the school, capturing the spirit of those who served and trained there.

By preserving the memory of the Mounted Service School, we honor the brave men who dedicated themselves to the development of American military tactics. Their commitment to excellence and the pursuit of knowledge laid the foundation for the United States Army's continued success.

The Untold Heroes of the Mounted Service School - Rediscovering Fort Riley's Legacy

The Mounted Service School, an integral part of Fort Riley's history, was a testament to the resilience and determination of those who sought to advance the cavalry tactics of the United States Army. Rediscovering the untold stories of the school provides a deep appreciation for the sacrifices made by these officers and their lasting impact on American military history.

Diary of the Instructor in Swordsmanship: AT THE MOUNTED SERVICE SCHOOL, FORT RILEY KANSAS 1914-1915

by Victoria Bond(Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	8261 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	67 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Famous World War II General George S. Patton, Jr. wrote Diary of the Instructor in Swordsmanship in 1915 while a student and instructor at the Mounted Service School in Fort Riley, Kansas. It is reprinted here in its entirety, including all original photographs and graphics. Before his assignment to the Mounted Service School, Patton had already proven his expertise in the art of fencing by placing fifth in the Pentathlon at the 1912 Summer Olympics in Sweden. He next traveled to Saumur, France to study with M. L’Adjutant Clery, reputed to be the finest fencing master in Europe. After Patton returned to the States he invented the Patton Saber, a design so simple yet revolutionary, the War Department ordered 20,000 in 1913. His new saber design favored cutting over thrusting, which meant retraining cavalry in mounted and dismounted tactics.
While at the Mounted Service (aka Cavalry) School Patton authored two training manuals instructing in basic use of the cavalry saber, updated to include tactical implications of his redesign. Saber Exercise 1914 was approved by the War Department and published as an official government document in 1914. The next year Patton also distributed a more informal document to his students at their request for additional instruction to supplement his earlier manual. The original title was Diary of the Instructor in Swordsmanship at the Mounted Service School, Fort Riley Kansas 1914-1915. To keep the cover space manageable, we have shortened the title to just the first part, leaving out the extra detail of the location and dates. Diary of the Instructor in Swordsmanship is divided into two sections. The first section, “Courses and Methods of Instruction in Swordsmanship at the Mounted Service School,” introduces basics in the use of the regulation saber to beginners; first dismounted and then mounted on horseback. The second section, “Diary of the Master of the Sword,” instructs in the art of point fencing. Both sections are accompanied by helpful diagrams and photographs of a young Patton illustrating his teaching points. Some of the words were bolded for emphasis in the original printing and they are reproduced here exactly as in the original. Saber Exercise 1914 is also reproduced by Dale Street Books, including all the original illustrations and photographs. We publish it verbatim under the title Saber Exercise 1914 Training Manual in Swordsmanship, to emphasize its value as instruction in the art of fencing in addition to its historical value as one of George S. Patton Jr.’s early writings. Sprinkled throughout both manuals are his personal observations and advice on preparing for combat. In his diary, for example, Patton explains why it is important to teach Army officers the art of fencing but only provide limited instruction to enlisted soldiers—and how swordsmanship training develops more aggressive instincts for battle. You can almost hear his voice, much younger, but unmistakably Patton.