1:3 HHT ACR

• Origins and Lineage: 1st Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment (1/3 ACR), including its Headquarters and Headquarters Troop (HHT), traces its roots back to the original formation of the 3rd Cavalry Regiment in 1846, making it one of the oldest continuously serving cavalry units in the U.S. Army. • Mexican-American War: The 3rd Cavalry Regiment first saw action in the Mexican-American War, participating in key battles such as Palo Alto and Resaca de la Palma. • Civil War Service: During the American Civil War, the regiment fought for the Union, serving in numerous campaigns and distinguishing itself in both eastern and western theaters. • Nickname: The 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment is famously known as the "Brave Rifles," a nickname bestowed by General Winfield Scott during the Mexican-American War. • Modern Deployments: 1/3 ACR and HHT have deployed multiple times in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, playing key roles in reconnaissance, security, and stability operations. • Regimental Motto: The motto of the 3rd ACR is “Brave Rifles! Veterans!” and is traditionally responded to with “Blood and Steel!”—a call and response that reflects the unit’s esprit de corps. • Horse to Armor: The unit transitioned from horse-mounted cavalry to mechanized and armored reconnaissance, symbolizing the evolution of U.S. Army doctrine and technology. • Distinctive Insignia: The unit’s distinctive insignia features crossed sabers and carbines, representing its cavalry heritage, along with the regimental motto. • Key Engagements: 1/3 ACR has participated in major 20th and 21st century conflicts, including World War II, Operation Desert Storm, and the Global War on Terrorism. • Unit Traditions: The annual “Spur Ride” is a storied tradition where troopers earn their spurs through a series of challenging tasks, fostering camaraderie and maintaining the cavalry spirit.