Cowpens National Battlefield will celebrate Veterans Day with a salute to national heroes and a unique demonstration that will bring to life an obscure piece of military history - the Cavalry Brigade.

The Third Continental Light Dragoons will present three cavalry demonstrations on Saturday.

"In the 18th Century, Dragoons were nearly synonymous with cavalry," CNB spokesperson Donna Davis said. "These versatile soldiers rode to battle on horseback, but could fight either on horseback or on foot. They provided scouts, patrols, escorts, mounted and dismounted skirmishers and served as the 'eyes and ears' of the army."

Recreationists will show off the vaunted form of the Dragoons in various maneuvers throughout the day, much as the group performed during the Battle of the Cowpens.

"Lieutenant Colonel William Washington, a second cousin of George Washington, commanded the Third Continental Light Dragoons at the

Battle of Cowpens," Davis continued. "Daniel Morgan, the American commander, held the Dragoons in reserve and ordered Washington to respond to every crisis or opportunity. In doing so, they played a critical role in the American victory, protecting the militia as they changed position early in the battle, charging the disorganized British late in the battle, and helping capture the two British cannons when the battle was over."

At 10 a.m., 2 p.m. and 4 p.m., on Nov. 11, the Third Continental Light Dragoons will demonstrate typical 18th Century cavalry tactics. Come to the Battlefield to learn how the Dragoons helped make the January 1781 American victory possible.

Visitor center hours are 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily. It is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. For more information, call (864) 461- 2828; or visit the park's Web page at:

www.nps.gov/cowp/