3:3rd Armored Cavalry

• Origins: The 3rd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment (3/3rd ACR), is part of the storied 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, which traces its lineage back to 1846 as the Regiment of Mounted Riflemen. • Nickname: The 3rd ACR is known as the “Brave Rifles,” a moniker bestowed upon them during the Mexican-American War by General Winfield Scott. • Modern Role: 3/3rd ACR serves as a reconnaissance and security force, using armored vehicles like the Bradley Fighting Vehicle and Stryker platforms in recent deployments. • World War II: The regiment saw combat in World War II, fighting in campaigns across North Africa, France, and Germany, and was instrumental in the liberation of several towns. • Gulf War: The 3rd ACR, including its 3rd Squadron, played a crucial reconnaissance and screening role during Operation Desert Storm in 1991, helping lead the “left hook” maneuver. • Iraq Deployments: 3/3rd ACR deployed multiple times to Iraq, where it conducted reconnaissance, combat, and peacekeeping operations in regions such as Tal Afar, Mosul, and Anbar Province. • Tal Afar Success: In 2005, 3rd ACR conducted Operation Restoring Rights in Tal Afar, a textbook example of counterinsurgency praised by President George W. Bush as a model for future operations. • Distinctive Insignia: The regiment’s crest features a green and yellow color scheme, a dragon, and the motto “Brave Rifles – Veterans!” symbolizing courage and heritage. • Decorations: The regiment and its squadrons have received numerous awards, including Presidential Unit Citations and Valorous Unit Awards for gallantry in action. • Traditions: The 3rd Squadron maintains cavalry traditions such as spur rides, Stetson hats, and the regimental ball, fostering esprit de corps among its soldiers.