7th CAV

• Origins in the Old West: The 7th Cavalry Regiment was established in 1866 and quickly became famous for its role in the Indian Wars, particularly under the command of Lt. Col. George Armstrong Custer. • Battle of the Little Bighorn: The most famous—and tragic—engagement for the 7th Cavalry was the 1876 Battle of the Little Bighorn, also known as "Custer's Last Stand," where over 200 troopers were killed. • Buffalo Soldiers: The 7th Cavalry served alongside African American regiments known as Buffalo Soldiers during the Indian Wars, a significant chapter in U.S. military integration. • World War II Service: The 7th Cavalry fought in the Pacific Theater, including campaigns in the Admiralty Islands, Leyte, and Luzon. • Korean War Heroics: The regiment participated in key battles such as the Pusan Perimeter, Inchon Landing, and the advance to the Yalu River, earning several Presidential Unit Citations. • Vietnam War Innovations: As part of the 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile), the 7th Cavalry became the first fully airmobile unit, using helicopters extensively for troop movement and support. • Ia Drang Valley Battle: The 1st Battalion, 7th Cavalry, fought in the first major battle between U.S. forces and North Vietnamese regulars at Ia Drang in 1965, a story depicted in the book and film "We Were Soldiers." • Garryowen March: The regimental song "Garryowen," an Irish tune, became the official song of the 7th Cavalry and is still played at ceremonial events. • Modern Deployments: The 7th Cavalry has been deployed in recent conflicts, including Operation Desert Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. • Legacy and Motto: The regiment's motto, "Garryowen," and its distinctive unit insignia are recognized worldwide, symbolizing bravery, innovation, and sacrifice in U.S. Army history.