About this Unit
The 2nd Squadron, 2nd Cavalry Regiment, known as "Sabre," is part of the storied 2nd Cavalry Regiment of the United States Army. The regiment traces its origins to 1836 and has participated in major conflicts from the American Civil War, through both World Wars, to modern operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. 2/2 Cavalry has served as a versatile, mobile force, excelling in reconnaissance and security missions across Europe and the Middle East. Today, the squadron is stationed in Vilseck, Germany, as part of the U.S. Army Europe and Africa, maintaining readiness to support NATO and allied operations.
Historical Facts
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Oldest continuously serving Regiment: The 2nd Cavalry Regiment (2/2 Cav) is the oldest continuously serving Regiment in the United States Army, originally constituted in 1836 as the 2nd Regiment of Dragoons.
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Service in the Indian Wars: The unit served extensively in the American Indian Wars, fighting in the Seminole Wars, and against other tribes during westward expansion.
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Motto "Toujours Prêt": The Regiment’s motto, "Toujours Prêt," is French for "Always Ready," reflecting its heritage and readiness for any mission.
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Crimean War Inspiration: The 2nd Dragoons were inspired by European cavalry tactics observed during the Crimean War, influencing their own cavalry doctrine.
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Fought in the Civil War: The unit fought in key Civil War battles including Gettysburg, Antietam, and Fredericksburg, earning distinction for its reconnaissance and combat roles.
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WWII Mechanization: During World War II, the Regiment transitioned from horses to armored vehicles, becoming the 2nd Cavalry Group (Mechanized) and playing a key role in Patton’s Third Army.
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Cold War Border Guards: Stationed in Germany during the Cold War, the Regiment patrolled the frontier between East and West Germany as the "Ghosts of the Post Road."
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Bosnia and Iraq Deployments: The Regiment was one of the first US units to deploy to Bosnia in 1995 for peacekeeping and later served multiple tours in Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom.
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Stryker Brigade Conversion: In 2006, the Regiment was reorganized as a Stryker Brigade Combat Team, enhancing its mobility and combat capability.
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Present in Vilseck, Germany: Today, the 2nd Cavalry Regiment is based in Vilseck, Germany, serving as a rapid response force for NATO and U.S. Army Europe, regularly participating in multinational exercises across Europe.
