About this Unit
The 4th Squadron, 7th Cavalry Regiment (4/7 Cavalry) traces its lineage to the 7th Cavalry Regiment, famously associated with the U.S. Army since 1866. Throughout its history, 4/7 Cavalry has served as a reconnaissance and security unit, playing key roles in conflicts such as the Vietnam War, where it conducted air and ground cavalry operations. The unit was later assigned to the 2nd Infantry Division in South Korea, providing vital surveillance and rapid response along the Demilitarized Zone. Continuing its legacy, 4/7 Cavalry remains a critical element in modern Army operations, adapting to new technologies and missions to support U.S. interests worldwide.
Historical Facts
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Origins in the Old West: The 4th Squadron, 7th Cavalry Regiment (4/7 Cavalry) traces its lineage to the 7th Cavalry Regiment, famously associated with General George Armstrong Custer and the Battle of Little Bighorn in 1876.
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Vietnam War Deployments: 4/7 Cavalry played a crucial reconnaissance and security role in Vietnam, operating as part of the 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile), and earning distinction in several major operations.
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First to Use Air Cavalry Tactics: The unit was among the first to pioneer modern air cavalry tactics, using helicopters extensively for scouting, inserting troops, and rapid mobility during the Vietnam War.
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Decorated for Valor: During the Vietnam War, the 4/7 Cavalry earned numerous awards for valor, including Presidential Unit Citations and Valorous Unit Awards, for exceptional performance in combat.
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Gulf War Service: 4/7 Cavalry was deployed during Operation Desert Storm in 1991, performing reconnaissance and screening missions for the 3rd Armored Division.
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Korean DMZ Patrols: After the Korean War, the unit was stationed along the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) in Korea, conducting border security and reconnaissance operations to deter North Korean aggression.
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Modernization and Transition: The unit has evolved from horse-mounted troops to mechanized and armored cavalry, and today operates with modern vehicles like the M3 Bradley Cavalry Fighting Vehicle.
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Nickname "Garryowen": The 7th Cavalry Regiment, including 4/7 Cavalry, is nicknamed "Garryowen" after an Irish tune adopted as the regiment's marching song in the 19th century.
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Operation Iraqi Freedom: Elements of 4/7 Cavalry deployed to Iraq during the 2000s, performing reconnaissance and security missions in support of coalition operations.
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Long-Standing Motto: The unit’s motto, “Ready and Forward,” reflects its rapid deployment capability and readiness to serve at the front lines in any conflict.
