CODY, Wyo. -- The Marine Corps Mounted Color Guard traveled to Cody, Wy., to present the American colors at the Cody Stampede Rodeo. During their trip, which started the last week of June and concluded during the first week of July, the Horse Marines traveled more than 2,000 miles round-trip.
Performing each day at numerous high-profile civic events, such as rodeos and parades, the one and only mounted ceremonial unit in the entire Marine Corps thrilled onlookers during their horseback marches and were able to interact with the public and take in the flavor of the local culture afterwards.
Starting officially in 1919, the Cody Stampede Rodeo and parade has been held every summer. 2011 marks the 74th anniversary of the nightly performances. These two events establish Cody as not only one of the longest running successful professional rodeo, but also the only place in the country that has a rodeo performance nightly.
The Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association named the Cody Stampede “Best Large Outdoor Rodeo of the Year” in 1998 and 1999. In 2001 the Cody Nite Rodeo was nominated for “Best Small Outdoor Rodeo of the Year.”
The Cody stamped Rodeo is one of nine stops on the Million Dollar Gold tour Series insuring the top cowboys from across the continent travel to Cody for the Buffalo Bill Cody Stampede Rodeo, one of rodeo’s crown jewels that contestants often call “Cowboy Christmas.”
According to Staff Noncommissioned Officer in Charge of the MCMCG, traveling to the distinguished event to represent Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow and the Marine Corps as a whole was extremely enjoyable.
“This was my second time going to Cody,” Gunnery Sgt. Michael Bate said. “It was a great pleasure for me to get out there with the Marines and (MCLB Barstow commanding officer) Colonel (Daniel P.) Ermer to represent the base.”