3rd Cavalry Regiment

• Origins in 1846: The 3rd Cavalry Regiment, originally named the Regiment of Mounted Riflemen, was established in 1846 specifically for service in the Mexican–American War. • Motto "Brave Rifles": The unit’s nickname and motto, "Brave Rifles," was bestowed by General Winfield Scott in recognition of their valor at the Battle of Chapultepec in 1847. • Frontier Service: After the Mexican–American War, the regiment spent decades patrolling the American frontier, taking part in numerous Indian Wars and skirmishes. • Civil War Service: During the American Civil War, the regiment fought for the Union and participated in several major campaigns, including the Valley Campaigns of 1864. • Transition to Mechanization: The 3rd Cavalry Regiment was among the first American cavalry units to transition from horses to mechanized vehicles prior to World War II. • World War II: As the 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, the unit fought across France, Belgium, and Germany, helping to liberate several towns and earning a reputation for rapid, aggressive action. • Gulf War Campaigns: The regiment was a key reconnaissance and security force during Operation Desert Storm in 1991, leading the VII Corps' advance into Iraq. • Multiple Deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan: Since 2003, the 3rd Cavalry Regiment has deployed multiple times to Iraq and Afghanistan, conducting counterinsurgency and stability operations. • Regimental Crest: The regimental crest features a green shield, symbolizing the regiment’s origins as mounted riflemen, and crossed sabers and carbines, representing cavalry and infantry heritage. • Historic Home Station: The 3rd Cavalry Regiment is currently based at Fort Cavazos, Texas (formerly Fort Hood), and is one of the oldest continuously serving armored cavalry units in the U.S. Army.