Modeled after the equestrian Cavalry of the 1800’s, the California Rangers is a non-profit youth equestrian organization that combines military science techniques and horse cavalry while striving to help young people develop skills such as horsemanship, drill maneuvers, leadership, self respect and responsibility. “Our goal is to take kids from the Santa Clarita Valley and stress family values and military leadership. We use the horses as our tool,” states Captain Fred Frothinger, “Most of the troops have little to no experience with horses. It’s a great opportunity for our youth.” Captain Frothinger has served for 23 years and held most of the offices available. He is now a troop commander and states, “It’s the best –I get to work with children and horses, instilling good morals and values at the same time.”
During World War II, the California State Militia, an arm of the Ninth Army Service Command, formed a Junior Mounted Militia to help assist the southern sector in local patrol and civil defense duties. The group was comprised of high school age boys, commanded by militia officers. These young members developed a high degree of character and benefited from the acquired skills of the military techniques and horse cavalry. As a result, on February 25, 1944, a Charter was issued by the State of California designating that this program be continued under the name of the California Rangers.
The California Rangers are made up of two posts, Post I and Post II, which make up the First Regiment of Cavalry. Each post has four troops consisting of 10 to 20 young rangers in each troop. Each of these troops has a distinctive riding style, either English or Western.
Much like the 1800’s cavalry, the California Rangers have enlisted and officer ranks and one can be promoted to higher ranks based on riding development, academics and leadership qualities. Uniforms worn by the Rangers resemble the U.S. Cavalry worn in the 1800’s. Rangers are adorned in a golden yellow shirt, with brass insignias and citation cord. As promotions are earned, black and gold military chevrons are added along with the California Ranger patch. Pants are black with a yellow stripe down each leg, and boots are either black western or knee high riding boots. The uniform isn’t complete without the black western hat and gold hat cord with acorns and a brass insignia.
Troops ride one night a week between 6 and 8 p.m. Rangers come in uniform, with an inspection prior to each ride. Weekly rides consist of practice equitation (individual riding skills) and troop drills. Each troop participates in a spring and fall post show and in the Regimental Show in December, where both posts come together for a competitive ride. In addition to competitions, California Rangers also compete in outside equestrian events.
The Post II Santa Clarita location currently rides at Don-e-brook Farms in Santa Clarita. The California Rangers provides a positive atmosphere for young people who love the outdoors and like to ride. It takes dedication and perseverance to work up the ranks, but the development of leadership skills, self-respect and discipline proves to be a very rewarding experience.
For more information, please visit www.californiarangers.org .
