LINCOLNTON, N.C. — Horses, history, patriotism and community service will come together in a unique Veterans Day celebration in Lincolnton on November 11, as young equestrians take center stage to honor the men and women who have served the nation.

The Triple H Mounted Drill Team of Cherryville is hosting a Veterans Day Drill Team Expo at the Lincoln County Horseman's Association, bringing together mounted drill teams from across North Carolina for an afternoon of patriotic performances and a special tribute to America's veterans.

What makes the event particularly special is the young people behind it. Triple H Mounted Drill Team consists of 15 riders, ages 9 to 17, who train and compete with their horses while also learning about the history and traditions behind mounted military drills, including military history and proper flag protocol.

Mounted drill teams and their precision routines have deep roots in military history. The young riders carry those traditions forward through their training, performances and efforts to give back to their communities.

The team regularly competes in Southeastern Mounted Drill Team Association (SEMDTA) competitions in Georgia but also participates in local activities and looks for opportunities to serve others. Organizers hope the Veterans Day Expo will become an annual community tradition.

The November 11 event will feature more than 25 riders participating in a patriotic Parade of Flags, showcasing historical and military flags.

The afternoon begins at 2:30 p.m. with the Parade of Flags, followed by a Presentation of Colors, the National Anthem and a prayer, with assistance from local veterans.

From 2:45 until 4:30 p.m., spectators will have an opportunity to watch a full lineup of equestrian mounted drill routines performed by four participating teams:

• Triple H Hearts and Hooves — Current SEMDTA Reserve Champion Drill Team.
• Triple H Horses and Hope
• Big Oak Trail Blazers
• Thunder Hooves 4-H Drill Team — Current North Carolina State 4-H Drill Team Champions.

The performances will combine horsemanship, teamwork, precision and patriotic themes in a celebration designed to recognize veterans and the freedoms they have defended.

Organizers are also inviting attendees to meet the riders and their horses and take photographs with a mounted drill team member.

Admission is free, and handicap-accessible parking and wheelchair seating will be available.

The Veterans Day Drill Team Expo will be held Wednesday, November 11, at the Lincoln County Horseman's Association, 1222 Ponderosa Road, Lincolnton.

For additional information email B.J. Waelz, Drill Team Coach at bjwmtbc@hotmail.com for any questions.

For these young riders, the event is about much more than performing on horseback. It is an opportunity to connect with America's military history, honor those who have served and demonstrate how young people can make a meaningful contribution to their community.