1st Cavalry, 2:7th, A Company, Weapons Platoon

• Origins and Lineage: The 2nd Battalion, 7th Cavalry Regiment (2/7th Cavalry) traces its lineage back to the original 7th Cavalry formed in 1866, famously led by Lt. Col. George Armstrong Custer. • Vietnam War Deployment: A Company, 2/7th, Weapons Platoon was heavily involved in the Vietnam War as part of the 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile), pioneering the use of helicopters in combat operations. • Battle of Ia Drang: The 2/7th Cavalry played a pivotal role in the Battle of Ia Drang in November 1965, the first major battle between U.S. and North Vietnamese forces, as depicted in the book and film "We Were Soldiers." • Weapons Platoon Role: The Weapons Platoon in A Company typically operated heavier support weapons such as machine guns and mortars, providing vital firepower to infantry operations. • Helicopter Insertions: 2/7th frequently conducted air assault missions, being inserted directly into hot landing zones via Huey helicopters, a tactic that became iconic in Vietnam. • Medal of Honor Recipients: Several soldiers from 2/7th, including from A Company, received the Medal of Honor for extraordinary heroism during engagements in Vietnam. • Distinctive Unit Insignia: The 7th Cavalry’s crest features the famous "Garryowen" motto, a nod to the Irish song that became their regimental march and battle cry. • Post-Vietnam Service: After Vietnam, 2/7th Cavalry has served in multiple conflicts, including the Gulf War, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. • Comradeship and Legacy: The strong bond among veterans of 2/7th, particularly those who served in Weapons Platoon, is celebrated through reunions and veteran organizations. • Popular Culture: The story of A Company and 2/7th was popularized by Lt. Gen. Hal Moore’s book "We Were Soldiers Once… And Young," which provides a detailed account of their actions in Vietnam.