1:17th Air Cav Airborne

U.S. Army•107 members

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Branch

U.S. Army

Members

107

About 1:17th Air Cav Airborne

The 1st Squadron, 17th Cavalry Regiment (Airborne), known as 1/17th Air Cav, traces its lineage to the 17th Cavalry Regiment formed in 1916. Reactivated and reorganized multiple times, 1/17th gained distinction as an airborne and air cavalry unit, often serving as the aerial reconnaissance and security element for the 82nd Airborne Division. During the Vietnam War, the squadron provided critical air mobility, reconnaissance, and support, earning multiple commendations for valor. In the years since, 1/17th Air Cav has deployed in major operations including Desert Storm, Iraq, and Afghanistan, continuing its tradition of rapid deployment and aerial excellence. The unit remains recognized for its adaptability, professionalism, and vital role in modern Airborne and Air Cavalry operations.

Unit Members

Keith Fisher

U.S. Army

1:17th Air Cav AirborneView Profile

Kenneth Barr

U.S. Army

1:17th Air Cav AirborneView Profile

Photos

U.S. Army • 1974

U.S. Army • 1976

About 1:17th Air Cav Airborne

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Vietnam War Origins: The 1st Squadron, 17th Cavalry Regiment (1/17th Air Cavalry) traces its roots to the Vietnam War, where it was activated as an air cavalry unit supporting the 82nd Airborne Division. • Nickname – "Saber Squadron": The unit is often referred to as "Saber Squadron," reflecting its cavalry heritage and aggressive reconnaissance role. • First Air Cavalry Operations: 1/17th was among the first units to employ helicopters for air assault, reconnaissance, and support missions, revolutionizing battlefield mobility. • Multiple Deployments: The squadron has deployed to Iraq, Afghanistan, and other global hotspots, supporting both combat and peacekeeping operations. • Distinctive Unit Insignia: Their insignia features a yellow cavalry guidon with a red numeral "17," a nod to traditional cavalry colors and lineage. • Combat Decorations: The unit has earned numerous awards, including the Valorous Unit Award and Meritorious Unit Commendation for actions in Vietnam and the Global War on Terror. • Airborne Qualified: As part of the 82nd Airborne Division, many troopers of the 1/17th are airborne qualified, trained to deploy by parachute in addition to air assault. • Helicopter Arsenal: Over the years, the squadron has operated a variety of helicopters, including the UH-1 Huey, OH-6 Cayuse, AH-1 Cobra, and more recently, the OH-58 Kiowa Warrior. • Operation Just Cause: Elements of 1/17th supported the U.S. invasion of Panama in 1989, providing reconnaissance and air support. • Enduring Legacy: Today, the 1/17th continues its proud tradition as a premier reconnaissance and security force, adapting to new technologies while maintaining deep cavalry traditions.