D Troop 3:17 Air Cav

• 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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.