About this Unit
The 1st Squadron, 4th Cavalry Regiment (1/4th Cav) traces its origins to 1855, when it was constituted as the 4th Cavalry Regiment in the U.S. Army. Throughout its distinguished history, 1/4th Cav has served in numerous conflicts, including the American Indian Wars, the Civil War, the Philippine–American War, World War II, the Vietnam War, and the Global War on Terrorism. During the Vietnam War, the squadron became renowned for its reconnaissance and security operations as part of the 1st Infantry Division. Today, 1/4th Cav continues to serve as a vital armored cavalry unit, upholding its motto "Quarterhorse" and maintaining a legacy of courage and adaptability.
Historical Facts
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Origins in the Indian Wars: The 1st Squadron, 4th Cavalry Regiment traces its roots back to March 1855, when the 4th U.S. Cavalry (originally the 1st Cavalry) was constituted to help protect settlers and fight in the Indian Wars on the American frontier.
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Famous Commanders: The regiment’s early commanders included legendary figures such as Robert E. Lee and Philip Sheridan, both of whom later became Civil War generals.
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Civil War Service: During the Civil War, elements of the 4th Cavalry fought in key battles including Shiloh, Stones River, and Chickamauga, earning a reputation for aggressive cavalry tactics.
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Buffalo Soldiers Connection: After the Civil War, the 4th Cavalry patrolled the western frontier and worked closely alongside the famed Buffalo Soldiers, African American troops of the U.S. Army.
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World War II: The unit was mechanized and participated in the liberation of the Philippines, earning the Philippine Presidential Unit Citation for its actions.
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Vietnam War “Quarterhorse”: The 1st Squadron, 4th Cavalry (“Quarterhorse”) served with distinction in Vietnam, participating in numerous major operations and earning 12 campaign streamers and three Presidential Unit Citations.
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Innovative Tactics: In Vietnam, the squadron was known for pioneering new tactics involving air-mobile operations, integrating helicopters for reconnaissance and fire support.
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Gulf War “Thunder Run”: In Operation Desert Storm, 1/4th Cavalry led the famous “Thunder Run” into Iraq, spearheading the advance of the 1st Infantry Division and helping to breach the heavily fortified Iraqi defensive lines.
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Modern Deployments: 1/4th Cavalry has served in Bosnia, Kosovo, Iraq, and Afghanistan, continuing its legacy as a reconnaissance and security force for the 1st Infantry Division (“The Big Red One”).
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Regimental Motto and Distinctive Insignia: The unit’s motto is “Prepared and Loyal.” The 4th Cavalry’s distinctive insignia features a gold and red shield with a horse’s head, symbolizing its cavalry heritage.
