MEMPHIS, Tenn. (CLARKSVILLENOW) – Ten Soldiers from 1st Squadron, 32nd Cavalry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division, raised the American Flag for Graceland’s commemoration ceremony on the 60th anniversary of Elvis Presley’s entry into the Army, March 24, 2018.
Presley served with the Fort Campbell squadron’s predecessor, 1st Battalion, 32nd Armored Regiment, from 1958-1960.
“Our event was a commemoration of the 60th anniversary of Elvis Presley’s induction into the U.S. Army,” said Mr. Mark Riddell, the Director of Public Relations at Graceland. “Elvis was very proud of his country and his military service. ‘Private Presley,’ the exhibit featuring artifacts from Elvis’ time in the military, is very popular with our guests who continually express their respect for Elvis serving his country.”
Troopers from 1-32nd Cavalry, referred to as “Bandits,” are proud to be so closely connected to Elvis through their Army service and enjoyed sharing the experience with military veterans.
“[The event] showed the history of a legend and the unit,” said Staff Sgt. Jonathan Taylor, a section leader in 3rd Platoon, B troop. “The flag raising was the best part. It was an honor to do something in memory of a veteran and for the veterans that showed up.”
The Bandits’ pride in their connection with Elvis and the veterans in attendance was palpable to those at the commemoration ceremony. The event also gave the Soldiers a chance to learn more about their unit’s history and Elvis’ service.
“From my discussions with the Soldiers who visited Graceland, there is a sense of pride that they count Elvis Presley among their peers and fellow Soldiers. For many of those who visited from 1-32 CAV, it was the first time they had a chance to see the artifacts related to Elvis’ military service. It sounded as if it was a fun and educational experience for all those involved,” said Mr. Riddell.
Bandit Troopers understood and appreciated the impact their role in the ceremony at Graceland had on the community.
“The outreach event impacted the community by showing that the military is a brotherhood and when you are gone we will continue to support that individual,” said Spc. Shawn Higgins, a driver in 2nd Platoon, B Troop. “[It] helped me and everyone who participated to experience a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to get out and see how the public supports its Soldiers and to remind us why we wear the uniform every day.”
Both the Bandits and Graceland were thrilled at working together to reach out to the community and commemorate service, and hope to continue the trend in the future.
“I absolutely believe Graceland and the U.S. Army should remain in contact and look for opportunities to work together in the future. Elvis loved his country and was extremely proud of his association with the U.S. Army,” said Mr. Riddell.
In similar words, Spc. Zinasia Woolfolk, a culinary specialist for D Troop, expressed that “1-32 CAV and every unity should support and continue to pay homage to past Soldiers.”
The Bandits are proud of their military history, of Elvis’ service in its predecessor unit, and to be part of events that reach out to the local community, especially its veterans. They will continue to step forward and actively participate in similar events in the future.