They didn't get that chance for some time, as years of duty in trenches awaited them first.
This photo is of my dad, Tom Mackay, MM. It was probably taken on the training ground of Fort Osborne Barracks in Winnipeg, before embarking for the UK.
Note the sword, primary weapon of the cavalry of the day. The horse stands proudly, mane and tail clipped, ears up, alert. No doubt the result of many hours of grooming, stable duty, and army discipline for trooper and charger.
More about the Canadian cavalry, and Tom, in my novel Soldier of the Horse.
