Photo By Sgt. 1st Class Cory Grogan | The 2023 Pendleton Round-Up Rodeo in eastern Oregon witnessed a remarkable display of...... read more read more
The 2023 Pendleton Round-Up Rodeo in eastern Oregon witnessed a remarkable display of precision and patriotism as the Pendleton community celebrated another successful event. At this iconic gathering, Pendleton's 1st Battalion, 168th Aviation Regiment of the Oregon Army National Guard joined forces with the renowned Navy Leap Frogs, treating rodeo enthusiasts to an unforgettable performance.
Against the backdrop of Eastern Oregon's vast skies, the Leap Frogs descended from an Oregon Army National Guard CH-47 Chinook Helicopter, earning thunderous applause from the ecstatic crowd. This collaboration between the local National Guard unit and the world-famous parachute team delighted both the local community and rodeo fans, showcasing their unwavering support for military heroes.
The U.S. Navy Parachute Team, known as the Leap Frogs, traces its roots back to 1969 when Navy SEALs and Underwater Demolition Team members volunteered for weekend air shows. In 1974, they officially became the Leap Frogs with a mission to showcase Navy excellence nationwide. Every member of this elite unit has served in real-world operations, making them among the best in the world.
Both the Oregon National Guard and the Leap Frogs praised each other's professionalism and skill during this collaboration. A Senior Chief with the Navy Leap Frog Parachute Team, commended the National Guard, saying, the 1-168 was a tremendous asset and that the Leap Frogs had an amazing experience working in Pendleton. "Everyone has performed at the highest level,” he said.
The local National Guard unit also supported other community events during the rodeo, including the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 922 annual Cowboy Breakfast at Stillman Park in Pendleton. This hearty, all-you-can-eat meal served as a fundraiser for the VFW, benefiting scholarships, Special Olympics, Little League, veteran's relief efforts, and various local organizations.
For National Guard Soldiers, serving their communities is a vital part of their mission, as they take immense pride in assisting during emergencies, important events, and fulfilling local missions.
Chief Warrant Officer 3 Charles Neveau, the Pilot in Command with 1-168 Aviation, expressed his gratitude.
“It’s great to be in the National Guard and have a purpose in life helping others. Our unit operates out of Pendleton, and it’s a great honor to have this opportunity to serve the community,” he said.
The Pendleton Round-Up Rodeo, one of the nation's largest, not only provides thrilling entertainment but also reinforces the strong bonds between the military and the communities they serve. As the Leap Frogs and the Oregon National Guard members showcased their skills on the rodeo grounds, they embodied the enduring spirit of patriotism that defines the Pendleton community and its annual Round-Up event.
| Date Taken: | 09.14.2023 |
| Date Posted: | 11.07.2023 16:17 |
| Story ID: | 455827 |
| Location: | OREGON, US |
| Web Views: | 72 |
| Downloads: | 1 |
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