About this Unit
The 3rd Squadron, 7th Cavalry Regiment (3/7th Cavalry) traces its lineage to the storied 7th Cavalry Regiment, famously associated with General George A. Custer. Reactivated and reorganized multiple times throughout its history, 3/7th Cavalry has served in key conflicts, including the Vietnam War, where it conducted reconnaissance and security operations. In more recent decades, the unit has deployed in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, performing reconnaissance, surveillance, and security missions. Known for its adaptability and valor, 3/7th Cavalry continues to uphold the proud traditions of the cavalry in the modern U.S. Army.
Historical Facts
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Origins in the Indian Wars: The 3rd Squadron, 7th Cavalry Regiment traces its lineage to the original 7th Cavalry, formed in 1866, famous for its involvement in the Indian Wars under Lt. Col. George Armstrong Custer.
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Battle of the Little Bighorn: The 7th Cavalry was the unit involved in the infamous 1876 Battle of the Little Bighorn, where Custer and much of his command were killed. Elements of today's 3/7 Cavalry honor this legacy.
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World War II Service: The 7th Cavalry Regiment fought as part of the 1st Cavalry Division in the Pacific Theater, including the liberation of Manila in the Philippines.
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Korean War Valor: The 3rd Squadron participated in key battles such as the Pusan Perimeter, the push to the Yalu River, and the defense of Seoul during the Korean War.
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Vietnam War Operations: The 3rd Squadron, 7th Cavalry served with distinction in Vietnam, providing reconnaissance and security missions, most notably during the 1968 Tet Offensive.
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Modern Mechanized Cavalry: Today, 3/7 Cavalry is equipped with advanced armored vehicles, including the Bradley Fighting Vehicle, and functions as a reconnaissance and surveillance unit.
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Gulf War Deployments: 3/7 Cavalry played a major role in Operation Desert Storm in 1991, leading the advance of the 3rd Infantry Division into Iraq and helping to liberate Kuwait.
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Operation Iraqi Freedom: The unit deployed multiple times to Iraq, conducting reconnaissance, security, and combat operations during the 2003 invasion and subsequent campaigns.
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Symbolism of the Yellow Guidon: 3/7 Cavalry’s traditional yellow guidon and Stetson hat are iconic symbols, representing its cavalry heritage and esprit de corps.
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Motto and Spirit: The 7th Cavalry’s motto, “Garryowen,” originates from an Irish tune adopted as a marching song, symbolizing the fighting spirit and camaraderie of the unit for over 150 years.
