194th Armored Calvary Illinois National Guard

The 194th Armored Cavalry was a unit of the Illinois Army National Guard, established during the Cold War era to provide reconnaissance and armored support. Formed in the 1950s, the unit inherited the lineage of earlier Illinois cavalry formations, adapting to the new demands of mechanized warfare. The 194th trained extensively for both state and federal missions, participating in numerous field exercises and community support roles throughout its existence. Eventually, as part of National Guard restructuring and the evolution of Army force structure, the 194th Armored Cavalry was reorganized or inactivated, with its personnel and traditions carried forward by successor units.