5:12 Calvary

• 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.