163rd Armor Cavalry

• Origins in Montana: The 163rd Armored Cavalry Regiment is a unit of the Montana Army National Guard, with its roots tracing back to the Montana volunteer forces formed in the late 19th century. • World War I Service: The regiment’s lineage includes service in World War I as part of the 163rd Infantry Regiment, which was mobilized and assigned to the 41st Division. • Distinguished World War II Record: The 163rd Infantry fought with distinction in the Pacific Theater, particularly in New Guinea and the Philippines, earning several battle honors. • Transition to Armor Cavalry: In 1953, the unit was reorganized as the 163rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, reflecting the shift from traditional infantry to a modern armored cavalry role in the Cold War era. • Montana’s Only Armor Cavalry: The 163rd ACR was the only armored cavalry regiment in the Montana National Guard, making it a unique component of the state’s military heritage. • Distinctive Unit Insignia: The regiment’s insignia features a mountain lion and crossed sabers, symbolizing Montana’s rugged terrain and the unit’s cavalry heritage. • Cold War Service: During the Cold War, the 163rd ACR trained for potential deployment to Europe, ready to counter any Warsaw Pact aggression. • Community Engagement: The regiment has been involved in numerous state emergencies, including wildfire fighting, flood relief, and disaster recovery throughout Montana. • Reorganization in 1988: In 1988, the 163rd ACR was reorganized into the 163rd Armored Brigade, adapting to new Army structure requirements and further modernizing its capabilities. • Ongoing Legacy: Today, the 163rd’s lineage continues in the Montana National Guard, with its successors serving in overseas deployments, including Iraq and Afghanistan, upholding the proud traditions of the regiment.