3:61st Cav

• Origins: The 3rd Squadron, 61st Cavalry Regiment (3/61st Cav) traces its lineage back to the 601st Tank Destroyer Battalion of World War II, which was renowned for its armored expertise. • Modern Activation: 3/61st Cav was activated in 2004 as part of the U.S. Army's transformation to modular brigade combat teams, becoming the reconnaissance squadron for the 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division. • Nickname: The squadron is famously known as the "Destroyers," a nod to its tank destroyer heritage. • Battle of Kamdesh: Troop B, 3/61st Cav was at Combat Outpost Keating during the intense Battle of Kamdesh in October 2009, where its soldiers earned multiple valor awards for their defense against a large Taliban assault. • Medal of Honor: Two soldiers from B Troop, Staff Sergeant Clinton Romesha and Specialist Ty Carter, were awarded the Medal of Honor for their heroic actions during the Battle of Kamdesh. • Valorous Unit Award: The squadron received the Valorous Unit Award for extraordinary heroism during its 2009-2010 deployment to Afghanistan. • Reconnaissance Role: 3/61st Cav specializes in reconnaissance, surveillance, and target acquisition (RSTA) missions, providing critical intelligence and security for brigade operations. • Combat Deployments: The squadron has served multiple tours in Iraq and Afghanistan, playing key roles in counterinsurgency and security operations. • Inspiration for Film: The Battle of Kamdesh and the actions of 3/61st Cav inspired the 2020 film The Outpost. • Unit Motto: The unit’s motto is “To the utmost extent of our power,” reflecting its commitment to mission accomplishment and valor.