Oscar Harbonneau

The 163rd Armor Cavalry is a unit within the Montana Army National Guard with a lineage tracing back to post-World War II reorganization. Originally constituted as infantry and later redesignated, the unit became the 163rd Armored Cavalry Regiment in 1953, reflecting the evolving needs of modern mechanized warfare. Throughout the Cold War, the 163rd provided armored reconnaissance and combat support, participating in numerous training exercises and fulfilling state emergency missions. After Army restructuring in the 1980s, its elements were reorganized into armor battalions, continuing the tradition of service and readiness in both state and federal roles.