About this Unit
The 5th Battalion, 12th Cavalry Regiment (5/12 Cavalry) is a distinguished unit within the United States Army, tracing its origins to the 12th Cavalry Regiment constituted in 1901. The battalion gained prominence during the Vietnam War as part of the 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile), where it participated in major operations such as the Battle of Hue and Operation Pegasus, the relief of Khe Sanh. Over the decades, 5/12 Cavalry has been deployed in various conflicts, including Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, demonstrating adaptability and resilience. Today, the battalion continues its legacy of service, upholding its motto "Semper Paratus" (Always Ready).
Historical Facts
• Origins: The 5th Battalion, 12th Cavalry Regiment (5/12 Cavalry) traces its lineage back to the 12th Cavalry, which was constituted in 1901 and has served in various forms throughout U.S. Army history.
• Vietnam War Service: The 5/12 Cavalry became most famous for its service during the Vietnam War as part of the 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile), participating in several major operations.
• Battle of Hue: In 1968, during the Tet Offensive, elements of the 5/12 Cavalry played a significant role in the Battle of Hue, helping reclaim the city from North Vietnamese forces.
• Operation Delaware: The battalion was involved in Operation Delaware in the A Shau Valley, a critical mission aimed at disrupting enemy supply lines in 1968.
• Distinctive Unit Insignia: The unit's insignia features a black horse’s head, symbolizing its cavalry origins, and a green background signifying the Vietnam jungles where it saw extensive combat.
• Air Assault Pioneers: 5/12 Cavalry was among the first U.S. Army units to use helicopters extensively in combat, pioneering the airmobile tactics that became essential in Vietnam.
• Notable Commanders: The battalion has been commanded by several distinguished officers, including Colonel Hal Moore, who later led the 1st Battalion, 7th Cavalry at the Battle of Ia Drang.
• Post-Vietnam Reactivation: After Vietnam, the 5/12 Cavalry was inactivated, but later reactivated and has served in various capacities, including as a mechanized infantry unit.
• Decorations: The battalion has received numerous awards for valor, including Presidential Unit Citations and the Valorous Unit Award for extraordinary heroism during combat operations.
• Modern Deployments: In the 21st century, 5/12 Cavalry units have deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan, continuing their legacy of service and adapting to modern warfare challenges.
