About this Unit
The 5th Battalion, 7th Cavalry Regiment (5/7th Cav) is a distinguished unit of the United States Army with a storied history. Originally constituted in 1866 as part of the 7th Cavalry Regiment, the unit is best known for its service in the Vietnam War, where it participated in major operations such as the Battle of Ia Drang in 1965. The 5/7th Cav has since served in numerous conflicts, including Operation Desert Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. Throughout its history, the battalion has upheld a reputation for bravery, adaptability, and dedication to mission success as part of the 1st Cavalry Division.
Historical Facts
• Origins in the Indian Wars: The 5th Battalion, 7th Cavalry Regiment (5/7th Cav) traces its lineage back to the 7th Cavalry, established in 1866. The regiment gained early fame (and infamy) for its role in the Indian Wars, including the notorious Battle of the Little Bighorn.
• Vietnam War Service: Reactivated as an Air Cavalry unit, 5/7th Cav became a key component of the 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile) in Vietnam, pioneering new tactics in airmobile warfare and fighting in major campaigns like the Battle of Ia Drang.
• Ia Drang Valley: The battalion played a significant role in the Battle of Ia Drang in 1965, which was the first major engagement between U.S. forces and North Vietnamese regulars. The battle was immortalized in the book and film "We Were Soldiers Once...and Young."
• Two Presidential Unit Citations: The unit has been awarded the Presidential Unit Citation twice for extraordinary heroism in action during the Vietnam War, particularly for its actions in the Pleiku and Binh Dinh provinces.
• Operation Pegasus: In 1968, 5/7th Cav took part in Operation Pegasus, which relieved the siege of the U.S. Marine base at Khe Sanh, one of the most famous operations of the Vietnam War.
• Gulf War and Beyond: Reactivated in the modern era, 5/7th Cav participated in Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, playing a pivotal role in the liberation of Kuwait.
• Global War on Terror: The battalion has been deployed multiple times to Iraq and Afghanistan, serving with distinction in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.
• Distinctive Insignia: The unit’s insignia features the famous "Custer’s Crossed Sabers," symbolizing its cavalry heritage, and is worn proudly by its soldiers.
• "Garryowen": The regimental march, "Garryowen," is a traditional Irish tune adopted by the 7th Cavalry and remains the battalion’s anthem, played at ceremonies and memorials.
• Legacy of Leadership: 5/7th Cav has produced numerous distinguished leaders, including Medal of Honor recipients and senior officers who have gone on to shape U.S. military doctrine and operations.
