About this Unit
The 2nd Armored Cavalry Regiment (2nd ACR), now known as the 2nd Cavalry Regiment, is one of the oldest continuously serving cavalry units in the United States Army, established in 1836. The regiment distinguished itself in numerous conflicts, including the Mexican-American War, the Civil War, and both World Wars, serving as a mechanized and later armored reconnaissance force. During the Cold War, the 2nd ACR played a key role in patrolling the Fulda Gap in Germany, prepared to counter potential Warsaw Pact advances. In more recent history, the regiment participated in Operation Desert Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and missions in Afghanistan, adapting to modern reconnaissance and security operations while upholding its storied legacy.
Historical Facts
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Oldest Regiment of Dragoons: The 2nd Cavalry Regiment, also known as the 2nd Armored Cavalry Regiment (2nd ACR), traces its lineage back to 1836, making it one of the oldest continuously serving regiments in the US Army.
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Founding and Indian Wars: Originally created as the 2nd Regiment of Dragoons, it played a key role in the Seminole Wars in Florida and later in the Mexican-American War.
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Civil War Service: The regiment fought for the Union during the American Civil War, participating in major battles such as Gettysburg and Antietam.
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World War II Fame: As the 2nd Cavalry Group (Mechanized), it famously liberated the Czech town of Pilsen and rescued the world-famous Lipizzaner stallions during Operation Cowboy.
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Patton’s “Ghosts”: During World War II, General George S. Patton dubbed the 2nd Cavalry his "Ghosts of Patton’s Army" for their reconnaissance and screening abilities.
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Cold War Guardians: Stationed on the East German border, the unit was the US Army’s primary reconnaissance and rapid reaction force along the Fulda Gap, a critical front line during the Cold War.
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First to Cross into Iraq in Desert Storm: In 1991, the 2nd ACR led the VII Corps’ “left hook” into Iraq, being among the first American units to engage and defeat Iraqi forces in the Battle of 73 Easting—a textbook armored victory.
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Bosnia and Kosovo: The regiment served as peacekeepers in the Balkans, providing stability and security operations in Bosnia and Kosovo during the 1990s.
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Modern Deployments: Since 2003, the 2nd Cavalry Regiment (Stryker) has served multiple tours in Iraq and Afghanistan, adapting to the role of a highly mobile, rapid deployment force.
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Regimental Motto and Insignia: The unit’s motto is “Toujours Prêt” (French for “Always Ready”), and its distinctive insignia features a green and yellow shield with two crossed sabers, representing its dragoon heritage.
