About this Unit
The 1st Battalion, 12th Cavalry Regiment (1/12th Air Cav) is a distinguished unit of the United States Army with a storied history dating back to its activation in 1901. During the Vietnam War, the 1/12th was assigned to the 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile), becoming an integral part of pioneering air assault operations and participating in major campaigns such as the Battle of Ia Drang in 1965. Over the decades, the unit has served in various roles, including as a mechanized and armored battalion, deploying to conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. Renowned for its adaptability and valor, the 1/12th Air Cav continues to uphold its legacy as a vital element of the U.S. Army’s cavalry forces.
Historical Facts
• Vietnam War Combat Debut: The 1st Battalion, 12th Cavalry Regiment (1/12th Air Cav), part of the 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile), was one of the first major U.S. units to utilize helicopters extensively in combat operations during the Vietnam War.
• Battle of Ia Drang: In November 1965, 1/12th Air Cav participated in the famous Battle of Ia Drang, the first major battle between U.S. forces and North Vietnamese regulars, which was later depicted in the book and film "We Were Soldiers Once… and Young."
• “Air Cavalry” Innovation: The battalion helped pioneer the concept of "Air Cavalry," using helicopters for rapid troop deployment, reconnaissance, and close air support, revolutionizing U.S. Army tactics.
• Nickname – “Jumping Mustangs”: The 1/12th is known as the “Jumping Mustangs,” a nickname carried from its origins as a horse cavalry unit through its transformation into an airmobile force.
• Decorations: The 1/12th Air Cav received several unit citations and decorations for valor, including Presidential Unit Citations for actions in Vietnam.
• Unique Unit Patch: Soldiers wore the iconic 1st Cavalry Division shoulder patch—a yellow triangular badge with a black diagonal stripe and horse’s head silhouette.
• Legacy from Indian Wars: The 12th Cavalry Regiment traces its lineage back to 1901, but the 1st Cavalry Division, to which it belonged, has roots dating back to the Indian Wars.
• Multiple Deployments: After Vietnam, 1/12th Air Cav continued to serve in various conflicts, including Operation Desert Storm, peacekeeping missions in Bosnia, and deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan in the 21st century.
• Helicopter Assaults: During Vietnam, the battalion was involved in over 200 major helicopter assault operations, often landing in hostile territory under fire.
• Regimental Motto: The 12th Cavalry’s motto is “Semper Paratus” (Always Ready), reflecting its readiness for rapid deployment and combat throughout its history.
