About this Unit
Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Armored Cavalry Regiment (HHT 2/2nd ACR) traces its origins to the storied 2nd Cavalry Regiment, established in 1836. The 2/2nd ACR has served in numerous conflicts, including the Indian Wars, World War II, the Cold War in Germany, and Operations Desert Storm and Iraqi Freedom. As the command and control element for the squadron, HHT has been pivotal in coordinating reconnaissance, security, and combat operations. The unit is renowned for its adaptability and professionalism, upholding the "Toujours Prêt" ("Always Ready") motto throughout its distinguished service.
Historical Facts
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Origins and Nickname: HHT 2/2nd ACR stands for Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Armored Cavalry Regiment, known as the “Dragoons.” The 2nd Cavalry Regiment is one of the oldest continuously serving cavalry regiments in the U.S. Army, established in 1836.
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Frontier Duty: The 2nd Cavalry spent its early years patrolling the American frontier, participating in the Seminole Wars and later the Indian Wars, helping expand and secure the young United States.
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Civil War Service: The regiment fought in major battles such as Gettysburg, Antietam, and Fredericksburg, often serving as the eyes and ears of the Union Army.
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World War II: The 2nd Cavalry Regiment, including its squadrons, played a key role in the liberation of Western Europe, notably liberating the Czech town of Pilsen in May 1945.
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Cold War Missions: Stationed in Germany, the 2/2nd ACR patrolled the East-West German border during the Cold War, serving as a vital trip-wire force against Soviet aggression.
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Operation Desert Storm: In 1991, elements of HHT 2/2nd ACR commanded and coordinated cavalry operations during the famous “Battle of 73 Easting,” regarded as one of the largest tank battles in U.S. history.
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Bosnia and Kosovo: The unit participated in peacekeeping operations in the Balkans during the 1990s, providing reconnaissance and stability operations in both Bosnia and Kosovo.
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Iraq War Deployments: HHT 2/2nd ACR deployed multiple times in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, conducting reconnaissance, security, and command missions in some of the most volatile areas.
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Modernization: The 2nd Cavalry Regiment transitioned from traditional tanks to the Stryker combat vehicle platform in the early 2000s, modernizing its reconnaissance and strike capabilities.
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Unit Traditions: HHT, as the headquarters element, is the heart of squadron operations—coordinating intelligence, logistics, and command functions. The unit upholds traditions such as the Regimental Ball and the passing of the Dragoon Saber, symbolizing leadership and honor.
