About this Unit
The 2nd Armored Cavalry Regiment (2ND ACR), now known as the 2nd Cavalry Regiment, is a storied unit of the United States Army with origins dating back to 1836. Originally formed as the 2nd Regiment of Dragoons, it has served in numerous conflicts, including the Mexican-American War, Civil War, Indian Wars, World War I, World War II, the Cold War, Operation Desert Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Enduring Freedom. During the Cold War, the 2ND ACR was renowned for its role as a border security force along the Iron Curtain, particularly in Germany. The regiment continues to serve as a Stryker Brigade Combat Team, maintaining its legacy of reconnaissance and cavalry excellence.
Historical Facts
•
Origins in 1836: The 2nd Armored Cavalry Regiment (2nd ACR), originally the 2nd United States Dragoons, was formed in 1836 to fight in the Second Seminole War in Florida.
•
Mexican-American War: The regiment played a crucial role in the Mexican-American War (1846–1848), including at the Battle of Resaca de la Palma.
•
Civil War Service: The 2nd Dragoons (later re-designated as 2nd Cavalry) fought for the Union in the American Civil War, participating in major battles such as Gettysburg and Antietam.
•
Indian Wars: The unit was heavily engaged in the Indian Wars of the late 19th century, including the Battle of Little Bighorn campaign.
•
World War II: As the 2nd Cavalry Group (Mechanized), they spearheaded Patton’s Third Army’s advance and were the first U.S. unit to cross into Czechoslovakia in 1945.
•
Cold War “Border Legion”: Stationed in Germany during the Cold War, the 2nd ACR patrolled the border between East and West Germany, earning the nickname "The Ghosts of the East."
•
Operation Desert Storm: In the 1991 Gulf War, the 2nd ACR led the famous “left hook” maneuver, decisively engaging and destroying the Iraqi Republican Guard at the Battle of 73 Easting.
•
Bosnia and Kosovo Peacekeeping: The regiment participated in peace enforcement operations in the Balkans, including Bosnia and Kosovo, during the 1990s.
•
Iraq and Afghanistan Deployments: The 2nd ACR (later re-designated as the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment) served multiple tours in Iraq and Afghanistan during the Global War on Terror.
•
Modern Role: Today, the unit is known as the 2nd Cavalry Regiment (2CR), based in Vilseck, Germany, and serves as a rapidly deployable, Stryker-equipped force for U.S. Army Europe.
