About this Unit
D Troop, 3rd Squadron, 17th Air Cavalry Regiment ("D Troop 3/17 Air Cav") traces its lineage to the Vietnam War, where it served as an aerial reconnaissance and attack unit. Activated in the 1960s, the unit operated helicopters such as the OH-6A Cayuse and AH-1 Cobra, providing crucial scout and gunship support during major operations. Over the decades, D Troop continued to evolve with advancements in aviation technology, later participating in peacekeeping and combat missions in the Middle East. Today, D Troop 3/17 Air Cav remains a vital component of U.S. Army aviation, renowned for its reconnaissance, security, and close air support capabilities.
Historical Facts
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Origins and Designation: D Troop, 3rd Squadron, 17th Cavalry Regiment (D Troop 3/17 Air Cav) traces its lineage to the original 17th Cavalry Regiment, which was constituted in 1916, and later reflagged through Army reorganizations.
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Vietnam War Service: D Troop 3/17 served with distinction in the Vietnam War, operating as an Air Cavalry unit, conducting reconnaissance, security, and air assault missions using helicopters such as the OH-6A Cayuse (Loach), AH-1G Cobra, and UH-1 Huey.
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Callsign "Silver Spur": The unit’s radio callsign during the Vietnam War was “Silver Spur,” while its sister unit used “White Platoon.” These callsigns became iconic among Vietnam helicopter units.
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Distinguished Service: Members of D Troop 3/17 earned numerous awards during the Vietnam War, including Silver Stars, Distinguished Flying Crosses, Bronze Stars, and Air Medals for heroism under fire.
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Heroic Rescue: On several occasions, D Troop pilots risked their lives to rescue downed aircrews and wounded soldiers, notably during the intense battles in Cambodia and the Central Highlands.
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Cambodian Incursion (1970): The unit played a key role in the Cambodian Campaign, providing reconnaissance and direct support to ground forces, often deep behind enemy lines.
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Reactivation and Modern Missions: After Vietnam, the 3rd Squadron, 17th Cavalry, including D Troop, has been reactivated several times and has served in various roles, including at Fort Drum, New York, and deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan in the Global War on Terror.
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Aircraft Evolution: D Troop has operated a variety of rotary-wing aircraft over its history, transitioning from Vietnam-era helicopters to modern OH-58D Kiowa Warriors and later AH-64 Apaches and UH-60 Black Hawks.
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Unit Motto: The regiment’s motto is “Animo Et Fide” (With Courage and Faith), reflecting the spirit and resolve of D Troop through decades of service.
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Veteran Community: Veterans of D Troop 3/17 maintain a strong network and regularly reunite to honor their service. Websites and social media groups keep the stories and camaraderie alive, sharing their history with new generations.
