About this Unit
The 1st Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment (1/11th ACR), known as the "Blackhorse Regiment," was originally activated in 1901 and has served with distinction in numerous major U.S. military campaigns. During the Vietnam War, 1/11th ACR played a critical role in reconnaissance and security operations, engaging in intense combat and earning numerous unit commendations. In the Cold War era, the squadron was stationed in Germany as part of the U.S. Army's forward-deployed forces, conducting border security and surveillance missions along the Iron Curtain. Today, 1/11th ACR continues its legacy at the National Training Center at Fort Irwin, California, serving as the Opposing Force (OPFOR) to train U.S. and allied units for combat operations.
Historical Facts
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Origins and Nickname: The 1st Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment (1/11th ACR), also known as the "Blackhorse Regiment," was constituted on February 2, 1901, and has a storied history as a premier cavalry unit in the U.S. Army.
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Vietnam War Service: 1/11th ACR was heavily involved in the Vietnam War, conducting armored reconnaissance and security operations, and earning a reputation for effectiveness in the challenging terrain of Southeast Asia.
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Battle of An Loc: In 1972, the squadron played a pivotal role in the defense of An Loc during the North Vietnamese Easter Offensive, helping to blunt enemy advances and protect key South Vietnamese positions.
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Spearhead of the Invasion of Cambodia: 1/11th ACR led armored columns during the 1970 incursion into Cambodia, helping to destroy enemy sanctuaries and supply lines.
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Cold War Duty in Germany: After Vietnam, the squadron was stationed in Fulda, Germany, tasked with patrolling the strategic Fulda Gap as the "tripwire" between NATO and Warsaw Pact forces during the Cold War.
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Blackhorse Patch: The unit's distinctive insignia features a black horse on a yellow and red background, symbolizing the cavalry's heritage and the regiment's bold spirit.
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National Training Center (NTC) Opposing Force: Since the 1990s, 1/11th ACR has served as the Opposing Force (OPFOR) at the NTC in Fort Irwin, California, providing realistic training for thousands of U.S. and allied soldiers.
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Decorations and Honors: The squadron has received numerous unit commendations, including Presidential Unit Citations, Valorous Unit Awards, and foreign decorations for valor and outstanding service.
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Modernization and Adaptation: 1/11th ACR has transitioned through various equipment and doctrinal changes, from Patton tanks and M113 armored personnel carriers to the latest Abrams tanks and Bradley fighting vehicles.
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Famous Alumni: Several notable military leaders have served with 1/11th ACR, including General Frederick C. Weyand, who later became Chief of Staff of the U.S. Army.
