PART II: REGIMENTAL CUSTOMS AND TRADITIONS

Regimental Museum 

The Third Cavalry Museum is considered a part of the Regimental Headquarters. Founded 

in 1933, the Museum is dedicated to the officers and Troopers of the Regiment. The history, 

customs, and traditions of the Regiment from 1846 to the present day are interpreted through 

the Museum’s extensive collection of photographs, documents, and historical property. 

It is the responsibility of all commanders to ensure that all newly assigned members of 

their units visit the Museum shortly after their arrival. The Museum is presently located in 

building 2160. Call 526-1040 or 526-2028 for operating hours. 

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Drawings by Randy Steffen and Don Greer 
Regimental Insignia 

Coat of Arms

The Regimental Coat of Arms for the 3d Armored Cavalry Regiment was originally approved for the 3d Cavalry Regiment on 7 May 1921. The Coat of Arms was redesignated for 

the 3d Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron, Mechanized on 28 February 1945. On 18 December 

1951, the Coat of Arms was once again redesignated, this time for the 3d Armored Cavalry 

Regiment. The Coat of Arms was amended to revise its symbolism on 27 June 1960. On 21 

February 1974 the 3d Armored Cavalry Regiment was issued a formal Grant of Arms by the

U.S. Army Institute of Heraldry. 

Blazon 

Shield: Vert (green), on a cross argent (silver) a tower of the field (green) on a chief or (gold) 

bend gules (red). 

Crest: On a wreath of the colors argent (silver) and vert (green) a trumpet palewise (vertical) 

or (gold). 

Motto: Brave Rifles! Veterans! You have been baptized in fire and blood and have 

come out steel! 

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Symbolism 

The Regiment’s original green facings on the uniform and its gold trumpet insignia are 

shown by the color of the shield and by the crest. The unit’s first engagement was the capture of 

Vera Cruz, and its continued with especially distinguished service throughout the campaign of 

1847 to the capture of Mexico City. Upon entering the city, it hoisted the Stars and Stripes over 

the national palace and displayed the regimental standard from the palace balcony, which drew 

from General Scott the statement, “Brave Rifles! Veterans! You have been baptized in fire and 

blood and come steel.”* The campaign is shown by the cross for Vera Cruz and the tower in 

green (the Mexican color) for fortified Mexico City, the first and last engagements thereof. The 

chief, taken from the arms of Lorraine, commemorates the Regiment’s World War I service. 

*It has since been determined that General Scott actually made this statement in a speech to 

the Regiment at Contreras, rather than in Mexico City. See Appendix G for the full text of the 

speech. 

Regimental Distinctive Unit Insignia 

The original branch insignia of the Regiment of Mounted Riflemen was a trumpet rather 

than the crossed sabers of the dragoon regiments, the only other mounted units in the Army at 

that time. This trumpet surmounts the crest on the Regimental Coat of Arms and appears on the 

present day Regimental Distinctive Unit Insignia, which is shown below. Affectionately known 

as the “Bug” due to its shape, this distinctive insignia was originally approved for the 3d 

Cavalry Regiment on 25 November 1922, and amended to revise its description on 5 January 

1923. On 18 December 1951, this insignia was redesignated for the 3d Armored Cavalry 

Regiment. 

Symbolism 

The green facing on the distinctive uniform authorized for the Regiment of Mounted Riflemen in 1851 and its gold trumpet insignia are shown by the color of the shield and by the crest. 

The unit’s first engagement was the capture of Vera Cruz, and it continued with especially distinguished service throughout the campaign of 1847 to the capture of Mexico City. Upon entering the city, it hoisted the Stars and Stripes over the national palace and displayed the regimental standard from the palace balcony. The campaign is shown by the cross for Vera Cruz and 

the tower of green (the Mexican National Color) for fortified Mexico City, the first and last engagements thereof. The chief, or red diagonal band, is taken from the arms of Lorraine, and 

memorializes the Regiment’s service in the First World War. 

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Description 

A green enameled metal device 1 1/16th inches in width consisting of a gold colored metal 

trumpet, mouthpiece up, entwined vertically with a cord, surmounting a green enamel scroll 

arced on the left and the right and looped below the trumpet inscribed “BRAVE” on the 

viewer’s left and “RIFLES” on the viewer’s right, and the numeral “3” centered on the lower 

segment, all in gold colored metal. 

NOTE: IT IS A VIOLATION OF BOTH ARMY POLICY AND TITLE 18, USC, 

SECTION 701 TO ALTER MILITARY INSIGNIA FOR ANY REASON. Persons or 

organizations needing graphic examples of any 3d ACR insignia should use only the 

original designs rather than attempting to create their own versions. Approved versions may 

be obtained from the Third Cavalry Museum. 

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Regimental Distinctive Unit Insignia 
Description 

On a green disk with 1/8 inch border, 2 3⁄4 inch diameter overall; a yellow trumpet bound 

with a gray cord and with mouthpiece up, in front of and extending above a green scroll; edged 

in yellow and bears the ‘BRAVE’ to the left of the trumpet in gray lettering, and ‘RIFLES’ to 

the right of the trumpet in gray lettering. The numeral ‘3’ in gray is centered below the trumpet 

bell. The device on the disk is similar to the Regimental Distinctive Unit insignia. The colors, 

green and yellow refer to the uniform with green facings and the gold trumpet insignia authorized the Regiment in the uniform regulations of 1851. The words “BRAVE RIFLES” are derived from the accolade given to the Regiment by General Winfield Scott. The gray color of the 

letters and the numeral “3” simulates the color of steel and refers to the Regimental Motto, 

“Blood and Steel”, which is also derived from the Regimental Accolade. 

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Regimental Shoulder Sleeve Insignia 

Regimental Shoulder Sleeve Insignia 

The shoulder sleeve insignia for the 3d Armored Cavalry Regiment was officially 

authorized by the Department of the Army on 12 June 1967. 
History of the Regimental Shoulder Sleeve Insignia 

The shoulder sleeve insignia was first worn by the members of the 3d Cavalry Group 

(Mechanized) of World War II. The Group never received any written authorization to develop 

and wear the patch. Instead, it received verbal permission of General George S. Patton, Jr., 

Commander of the Third U.S. Army. At the end of WWII the Regiment was required to 

remove its unauthorized shoulder sleeve insignia and wear in its place the shoulder patch of its 

next higher headquarters. However, the troopers continued to wear their distinctive unit patches 

on an unofficial basis on the left breast pockets of their fatigue uniforms. The Department of the 

Army finally authorized the wear of distinctive shoulder sleeve insignia for separate brigades 

and regiments in 1967. 

The late General Polk (32nd Colonel) recalls: 

...The regiment never received any formal correspondence authorizing the... wear of a 

regimental patch. ...Gen Patton asked me personally why no member of the regiment wore a 

patch... He then answered his own question by saying that he...supposed we did not enjoy 

particularly the wearing of a Third Army patch as it connoted support troops such as truck 

companies, engineer battalions and the like... 

I then asked his permission to design a patch incorporating the 3d Cavalry “Bug”, the 

regimental insignia worn on our dress uniform. ...He readily agreed. ... 

I have been challenged on occasion by officers with a statement that I am wearing an 

unauthorized patch. My reply has always been that the patch was authorized by General 

Patton personally and that I consider this good and sufficient authorization.... 

Symbolism

The green scroll represents the green facings on the distinctive uniforms authorized for the 

Regiment of Mounted Riflemen in 1851. The uniform regulations of 1851 also authorized the 

trumpet as the unit insignia for the Regiment. The numeral “3” indicates that the 3d Armored 

Cavalry Regiment is descended from the Regiment of Mounted Riflemen, being numbered 3 

because it was the third mounted unit in the Army, after the 1st and 2d Dragoons which became 

the 1st and 2d Cavalry Regiments in the reorganization of 1861. 

Regimental Color 

The Regimental color is emerald green. This was the branch color of the Mounted Rifles 

and trimmed the distinctive uniforms worn from 1851 to 1861. 

Regimental Motto 

The Regimental Motto is “Blood and Steel”. It derives from the Regimental Accolade. 

Traditional Unit Designation 

The Traditional Unit Designation for the 3d Armored Cavalry Regiment is “BRAVE 

RIFLES”. This designation, awarded to the Regiment for its many years of faithful and 

distinguished service, was officially granted to the Regiment by the Secretary of the Army on 

19 January 1977. 

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Other Customs and Traditions 

Regimental Abbreviation 

Since August of 1861, when using the numeral “3” in stead of the word “Third”, the proper 

form is “3d” with a small case “d”. An upper case “D” is never used, nor are “R”, “r” or 

“3ACR”. 

Regimental Greeting 

The Regimental greeting is rendered by all enlisted troopers to officers and by junior 

officers to senior officers. The greeting is exchanged as follows: 

 Junior individual exclaims: “Brave Rifles, Sir (or Ma’am)!” 

Senior individual responds: “Veterans!” 

Regimental Battle Cry 

“AI-EE-YAH!” is the Regimental Battle Cry. It symbolizes the cry of the Cavalry Trooper 

charging into battle. It has evolved into a form of slang used by members of the Regiment, referring to or meaning anything and everything except “no”. 

Regimental Accolade 

This phrase, which originated with General Winfield Scott, has been adopted by the 

Regiment as its Accolade and is also the source of the Regimental Motto and the Regimental 

Greeting (see Appendix G). It is normally rendered by all personnel prior to passing in review 

during parades, and prior to dismissal from some formations. It is rendered in the following 

manner: 

Regimental, Squadron, or Troop Commander: “Prepare for the Regimental Accolade!” 

Squadron, Troop Commander or Platoon Leader: “Prepare to sound off!” 

Regimental, Squadron, or Troop Commander: “Brave Rifles!” 

All personnel respond: “Veterans!” 

Regimental, Squadron, or Troop Commander: “Blood and Steel!” 

All personnel respond: “AH-EE-YAH!” 

Regimental Standard 

The organizational flag of a mounted unit has traditionally been referred to as a “standard”, 

as opposed to the term “colors” which has been used to refer to organizational flags of foot 

units. The regimental standard is the single most visible, symbolic representation of the 

Regiment. The standard and its companion National Colors are displayed in the Regimental 

Commander’s office, and are carried in all Regimental ceremonies and formations. 

When a new standard is issued, the old one is retired from service and placed in the Third 

Cavalry Museum. All the Regimental Standards that are known to exist are part of the 

Museum’s collection, beginning with the second Standard, which dates from 1848. The first 

Standard was presented to Congress at the conclusion of the Mexican War and has since 

disappeared. 

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Possession of colors and guidons by private individuals and organizations is a violation of 

Federal Law 10 USC 4565. Giving a flag as a memento constitutes a felony. A copy of 10 

USC 4565 is available at the JAG office.

Regimental Pass in Review 

The command to pass the Regiment, or any element thereof, in review during a parade 

ceremony is given in the following manner: 

Reviewing officer: “Brave Rifles – pass in review!”

Regimental Saber of Command 

The Saber of Command has traditionally represented the authority of the Regimental 

Commander. At a Regimental change of command ceremony, the Saber of Command is passed 

from the outgoing Commander to the incoming Commander, thus signifying the 

relinquishment, transfer, and assumption of command of the Regiment. The Saber of 

Command is displayed in the Regimental Commander’s office. 

Command Lineage 

It is customary for the Regimental Commander and the Regimental Command Sergeant 

Major to sign all correspondence in such a manner as to indicate their number in chronological 

succession of command or responsibility, e.g. “68th Colonel”, or XIVth Command Sergeant 

Major”. 

Order of the Spur 

The Spur Program was created to recognize those Troopers and officers who have 

demonstrated a level of professional expertise, which exceeds that expected of other soldiers in 

the Army. The quest for admittance to the Order of the Spur, ending with the Spur Ride, is an 

essential part of the development of all cavalrymen. Successful completion of the Spur 

program results in the award of a pair of spurs and membership in the Order. While 

participation is strictly voluntary, spurs are highly sought after and are a highly visible symbol 

of the qualities of professional excellence that all cavalrymen strive to achieve. 

Order of the Garter 

When a newly assigned officer or senior NCO is hailed by his unit, his lady is also 

welcomed and enrolled into the Order of the Garter. The lady receives a yellow garter with 

blue ribbon and a certificate of enrollment. 

Regimental Color Guard and Color Bearers

Regimental Color Guard members are selected from different units in the Regiment by the 

Regimental Command Sergeant Major. The Regimental Color Sergeant is traditionally 

provided by Troop F in memory of Sergeant James Manley of Company F, Regiment of 

Mounted Riflemen. Sergeant Manley carried the National Colors in the Regiment’s assault on 

Chapultepec and later raised the same flag over the Mexican National Palace in Mexico City. 

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Organization Day 

Each year, the Regiment celebrates its anniversary with a series of activities and events 

intended to recall its history, customs, and traditions. The Regiment first celebrated 

Organization Day on 19 May 1921. 19 May was the day on which the Regiment of Mounted 

Riflemen was authorized by an Act of Congress in 1846. Though on 14 July 1967, the 

Department of the Army officially recognized 12 October as Unit Day for the 3d ACR in 

recognition of its formal organization at Jefferson Barracks, Missouri on 12 October 1846, the 

anniversary is usually celebrated in May.

The celebration typically includes a field day in which units of the Regiment compete 

against each other in a series of military and athletic competitions, a Regimental Ball, and a 

Regimental formation. At this formation, the Regimental Commander may give a short address 

to the troops, followed by a summation of the regimental history, battle honors, and Medal of 

Honor recipients. 

Reporting for Duty and Leaving the Regiment 

Immediately after an officer or senior NCO is assigned to the Regiment, it is customary for 

a letter of welcome to be dispatched from the Regiment to the individual. In the case of an 

officer, the letter is sent by the Regimental Commander, while the letter of welcome for an 

NCO is sent by the Regimental Command Sergeant Major. These letters usually enclose such 

information as may be desirable for orienting the individual and facilitating his or her 

immediate adjustment to probable new duties and new station. 

All new officers normally report to the Regimental Adjutant and then are interviewed at an 

appropriate time by the Regimental Commander, who will orient new officers as to the mission 

and organization of the Regiment. When departing the Regiment, whether for civilian life or a 

new duty assignment, it is customary for all officers to pay their respects in person to the 

Regimental Commander. 

Change of Command 

A change of command is a formal ceremony conducted within the Regiment whenever a 

new commander takes command of a unit. Change of command ceremonies for troop/company/

battery size units are normally conducted at squadron formations. A Squadron Change of 

command is usually performed at a squadron formation and when the Regiment changes 

commanders, the entire Regiment is usually turned out. 

After the ceremony, a reception is held so that guests and members of the command may 

congratulate the new commander and his or her spouse. As soon as possible following his 

assumption of command, the new Regimental Commander addresses all assigned members of 

the Regiment in separate assemblies, usually at Squadron level. 

Regimental March 

The official march of the Regiment is “Brave Rifles”, by C. Campagna. This march was 

composed in 1937 and dedicated to the Regiment during the command of Kenyon A. Joyce, 

26th Colonel, while the Regiment was stationed at Ft. Myer, Virginia. The march is 

customarily played at all Regimental ceremonies and formations where the Regiment passes in 

review. 

Regimental Song

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The Regimental Song is “Green Grow the Rushes, Ho!” The exact circumstances by which 

the Regiment selected this song as its very own have been lost to history. It is tradition, though 

not established fact, that the term "Gringo", a slang term often used by the people of Latin 

America when referring to Americans, originated from this song. Supposedly the Mexican 

populace heard the Regiment of Mounted Riflemen singing while on the march during its 

campaigns in the Mexican War and derived the word "Gringo" from the phrase "Green Grow". 

The new label was first applied to the Mounted Riflemen, then to all American troops, 

eventually becoming universally applied to all Americans. 

All the verses of this song as sung by the Regiment have been lost to history. The original 

twelve verses dating back to the Middle Ages are still in existence, but they are basically 

religious in nature, and soldiers have never been known to be very pious, particularly when it 

has come to composing and singing verses for their marching and drinking songs. In all 

probability, the original words parodied Burns’ lyrics who’s chorus was: “The sweetest hours 

that ere’ I spent were spent among the lasses, O!” 

Dining In 

Approximately once a quarter, the officers and selected NCOs of the Regiment meet for a 

Dining In or Formal Mess Night. Instituted as a custom in the 3d ACR during the 1950’s, the 

Dining In provides an opportunity for the officers and NCOs to participate in the ceremony and 

tradition integral to the life of a cavalry unit. 

Regimental Toast 

The Regimental Toast is customarily offered by the Regimental Commander to the officers 

of the Regiment at a Formal Mess Night. The origin of this toast dates from the 1960's when 

the Regiment was stationed in the Federal Republic of Germany. The author is unknown. The 

Regimental Toast is given in the following manner: 

I propose a toast: 

To the Brave Rifles who charged for General Winfield Scott at Chapultepec, who 

were baptized in fire and blood and came out steel and who raised the colors of 

victory over President Santa Ana's Palace. 

To the Mounted Riflemen who rode westward from Missouri to the Pacific, 

opening and protecting the Oregon Trail and securing the frontiers of our 

advancing civilization. 

To the Cavalry veteran who protected the Texas Territory, fought bravely in the 

Indian Wars, and rode in the bitter fighting of the War Between the States. 

To the Cavalryman who fought victoriously in Cuba, in the Philippines and in 

France during WWI. 

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To the Cavalryman who fought victoriously in Cuba, in the Philippines and in 

France during WWI. To the Mechanized trooper who, as a "Ghost" of Patton’s 

Army, provided the sharp point to the spear which pierced the heart of Germany. 

And to the Constabulary Trooper who guarded the uneasy peace along the frontiers of the free world. 

And too, to the Armored Cavalryman who was rushed to Europe to help tip the 

balance of force against the Cold War threats of our country's enemies. 

Yes, I propose a toast to many men--many Brave Rifles who are as one. I propose a toast to that dedicated fighting professional, the Trooper of the 3d Armored Cavalry Regiment. 

Births in the Regiment 

When a baby is born to an officer of the Regiment, the event is commemorated by the presentation of a silver baby cup appropriately inscribed and engraved with the Regimental Distinctive Unit Insignia. 

Deaths in the Regiment 

When the Regiment is in garrison and one of its officers or troopers passes away, memorial 

services are held in the Chapel by the unit to which the individual was assigned. The Squadron 

Chaplain conducts the services and honors are rendered according to the rank of the deceased. 

It is customary for the Regimental Commander, Regimental Command Sergeant Major and the 

respective Squadron Commander and Squadron Command Sergeant Major to be in attendance. 

When the Regiment is engaged in combat operations, away from its home base, besides the 

services conducted in theater, services are conducted in the home base chapel by the rear detachment and installation chaplain office. Maximum participation at these services is encouraged to show support for the members of the Regiment while they are away. 

Regimental Grace 

The origin of this blessing is unknown, having been lost to history. It is normally presented 

by the Regimental Chaplain prior to the serving of the dinner at a Dining in. It reads as follows: 

Most Gracious God, who hast enriched thy creation with many blessings, we 

now evoke Thy presence with all Brave Rifles gathered about these tables. May 

the food so plenteously supplied to us cause us to renew our expressions of 

Thanksgiving to Thee. May the strength received from this food nourish our 

spiritual body. 

Bless those who have prepared this food and those about to partake of it, in the 

name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. AMEN. 

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 68 

Regimental Prayer 

The author of the original Regimental Prayer is unknown. It is normally presented by the 

Regimental Chaplain at the conclusion of a dining in. The prayer was revised in 1965 by E. A. 

Simon, the Regimental Chaplain, to read as follows: 

Almighty and Eternal God, our Heavenly Father, we come to thee now through 

thy Son, Our Lord Jesus Christ, asking thee to hear and honor our prayer. We 

thank thee, our Father, for thy continual guidance over the destiny of our Regiment of Mounted Riflemen and pray that each trooper will faithfully follow thy 

direction throughout his life. 

We beseech thee to help us always to be worthy of those glorious achievements, 

inherited from our forefathers and which are now entrusted to us. 

With thy divine assistance, may we carry our colors with courage, honor, and 

distinction. 

We ask thee to guide our leaders, bless our troopers and cause all of us who serve 

thee to be faithful to thy name. In times of combat, may our arms be victorious 

over our enemies, so that a just and lasting peace may come to the world. 

And Lord, when our final Taps is sounded, may each Brave Rifleman, who knew 

and served thee in this life, be called before thy throne to receive their eternal 

award. These things we ask in the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. 

AMEN. 

Weddings in the Regiment 

At wedding ceremonies for officers of the Regiment, it is customary for an arch of cavalry 

sabers to be formed by the groomsmen outside the chapel entrance, under which the newlyweds 

pass when departing the chapel. It is also customary for the officer and his new bride to be presented with a wedding tray inscribed with the Regimental Distinctive Unit Insignia. NOTE: the 

Third Cavalry Museum does not provide the sabers for these ceremonies. 

Holidays 

On New Year's Day it is customary for officers of the Regiment and their spouses to call on 

their respective Squadron Commander and the Regimental Commander at their quarters at a 

specified time. On Thanksgiving and Christmas, all dining facilities hold an Open House for 

officers, troopers and their families and guests. 
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REGIMENTAL AWARDS 

There are several types of Regimental Awards given to officers, troopers and families of the 

Regiment. 

Order of the Brave Rifles 

Upon departing the Regiment, officers are permanently enrolled as Troopers in the Order of 

the Brave Rifles. Under exceptional circumstances, distinguished civilian and military officers 

of the United States and foreign countries may be enrolled in the Order of the Brave Rifles as 

the "Bravest Rifle". 

Honorary Squadron of Mounted Riflemen 

The Honorary Squadron of Mounted Riflemen recognizes significant contributions to the 

Regiment. The award consists of a mounted certificate awarded at a Punch Bowl Ceremony in 

the Regimental Conference Room. The recipient will have his/her name annotated in the rolls 

of the Honorary Squadron of Mounted Riflemen during the ceremony. 

Regimental Coin of Excellence 

The 3d Armored Cavalry Regimental Coin of Excellence provides special recognition from 

the Regimental Commander or Commander Sergeant Major for outstanding training, duty performance, or special activity. Individuals are recognized on the spot for their outstanding efforts. Anyone associated with the Regiment is eligible, regardless of rank, specialty skill, or 

duty position and it may be awarded at any time and any place. 

Certificate of Recognition 

Troopers departing the Regiment who have distinguished themselves during their period of 

service and who are recommended by their Commanders, are eligible to receive a Certificate of 

Recognition from the Regimental Commander. Awards are also presented to those individuals 

selected as Trooper and NCO of the Quarter and Trooper and NCO of the Year. The Regimental Command Sergeant Major oversees selection of the recipients. 

Lady of the Brave Rifles 

The lady of a departing officer is accorded the honor of being enrolled as a Lady of the 

Brave Rifles. This honor recognizes her contribution in support of the Regiment through participation in family support groups and community activities on behalf of the Regiment. 
Accolade to a Cav Lady 

Ai-ee-yah!'s the cry of 

The 3d Armored Cav, 

A reminder of pride 

In the history we have. 

So hold your head high 

You’re a part of this clan, 

A Faithful Cav Lady 

Who stands by her man. 

You’ve paid your dues, 

Lonely nights and long days, 

The wife of a soldier 

Seldom gets praise. 

This memento is given 

With love’s lusty yell, 

Ai-ee-yah! Brave Rifle! 

Godspeed and Farewell!

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Appendix A 

TRANSCRIPTION OF THE ACT OF CONGRESS 

ESTABLISHING THE REGIMENT OF MOUNTED RIFLEMEN 

The 3d Armored Cavalry Regiment was originally organized and equipped as the Regiment 

of Mounted Riflemen. The Regiment was authorized by an act passed by the 29th Congress of 

the United States on 19 May 1846. This act, entitled "An Act to provide for raising a regiment 

of mounted riflemen and for establishing military stations on the route to Oregon," is reproduced here in its entirety: 

Twenty-ninth Congress of the United States; 

At the first session, 

Begun and held at the City of Washington, the first day of December, one thousand eight 

hundred and forty-five. 

AN ACT 

To provide for raising a regiment of mounted riflemen, and for establishing military stations on 

the route to Oregon. 

"Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of 

America in Congress assembled. 

“That there shall be raised one regiment of mounted riflemen, to be composed and organized as 

follows, to wit ... one colonel, one lieutenant colonel, one major, one quartermaster-sergeant, 

two chief buglers, and one adjutant who shall be a lieutenant, one sergeant major, one chief musician, and ten companies; each company shall consist of one captain, one first lieutenant, one 

second lieutenant, (exclusive of the adjutant lieutenant), four sergeants, four corporals, two buglers, one farrier, one blacksmith and sixty-four privates. 

“Section 2. And be it further enacted. That the officers, non-commissioned officers, musicians, 

and privates shall be entitled to the same pay and emoluments as are allowed to dragoons, and 

that the farrier and blacksmith shall receive the same pay and allowances as are allowed to an 

artificer of artillery. 

“Section 3. And be it further enacted. That the said regiment of riflemen shall be subject to the 

rules of war, and shall be recruited in the same manner as other troops in the service of the 

 71 
United States, and with same conditions and limitations; and the officers, noncommissioned 

officers, musicians, privates, blacksmiths and farriers shall be entitled to the same provisions 

for wounds and disabilities, and the same provisions for widows and children, and the same allowances and benefits in every respect, as are allowed to other troops composing the army of 

the United States. 

 “Section 4. And be it further enacted. That the non-commissioned officers, musicians, and privates of said regiment, when employed in constructing fortifications, making surveys, cutting 

roads or performing other labor, shall be allowed fifteen cents a day each with a commutation in 

money for the extra spirit ration, as provided by the act of the second of March, One Thousand 

Eight Hundred and Nineteen entitled "An act to regulate the pay of the army when on fatigue 

duty". 

“Section 5. And be it further enacted. That the sum of seventy-six thousand five hundred dollars, for mounting and equipping said regiment, be, and the same hereby is appropriated, and a 

sum be paid out of any moneys in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated. 

“Section 6. And be it further enacted. That a sum not exceeding three thousand dollars, out of 

any moneys in the treasury, not otherwise appropriated, be, and the same hereby is appropriated, to defray the expenses of each military station or defense which the President may deem 

necessary on the line of communication with Oregon; and a sum not exceeding two thousand 

dollars for making compensation to the Indian tribes which may own or possess the ground on 

which the said station may be erected, and for each station.”

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Appendix B 

CERTIFICATES OF LINEAGE AND HONORS 

The certificates attesting to a unit’s lineage and honors are the most important documents 

relating to the history of that unit. Issued by the Department of the Army's Center of Military 

History, they are the unit's birth certificate, its deed to organizational properties, and its service 

record. While the original copies are in the Regimental Museum, the information contained on 

them has been reproduced here to aid you in tracing the history of the Regiment. 

The 3d Armored Cavalry Regiment has received credit for participation in thirty-nine 

campaigns during the course of its history. It has been awarded a battle streamer for each of the 

thirty-nine campaigns. These streamers are affixed to the top of the staff on which the 

Regimental Standard is carried 

Lineage 

Constituted 19 May 1846 in the Regular Army as the Regiment of Mounted Riflemen. 

Organized 12 October 1846 at Jefferson Barracks, Missouri. Redesignated 3 August 1861 as 3d 

United States Cavalry. 

Inactivated 15 July 1942 at Fort Benning, Georgia; personnel and equipment transferred to 3d 

Armored Regiment (see annex). Redesignated 18 January 1943 as 3d Cavalry, Mechanized. 

Activated 15 March 1943 at Camp Gordon, Georgia. 

Regiment broken up 3 November 1943 and its elements reorganized and redesignated as Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, 3d Cavalry Group, Mechanized and the 3d and 43d Reconnaissance Squadrons, Mechanized. 

Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, 3d Cavalry Group, Mechanized, inactivated 22 December 1945 at Camp Kilmer, New Jersey. Activated 26 February 1946 at Fort George G. Meade, 

Maryland. Redesignated 5 November 1948 as Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 3d 

Armored Cavalry; organization of the remainder of 3d Armored Cavalry completed 3 November 1948 by redefinition of elements of 3d and 43d Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadrons, Mechanized and by reconstruction, redefinition, and activation of certain other elements of the 3d 

Cavalry which had been inactivated or demobilized 1921-1928. 

3d, 777th, and 21st Tank Battalions (see annex) consolidated with 3d Armored Cavalry 

8 January 1951. (Battalions and Companies redesignated Squadrons and Troops, 1 June 1960).

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Annex 

3d Armored Regiment constituted 11 July 1942 in the Army of the United States and assigned 

to 10th Armored Division. Activated 15 July 1942 at Fort Benning, Georgia with personnel and 

equipment from 3d Cavalry. 

Regiment broken up and its elements reorganized and redesignated 20 September 1943 as follows: 3d Armored Regiment (less lst and 3d Battalions, Band, Maintenance, Service, and Reconnaissance Companies) as 3d Tank Battalion. lst Battalion as 777th Tank Battalion and relieved from assignment to 10th Armored Division; 3d Battalion as 21st Tank Battalion; Reconnaissance Company, as Troop D, 90th Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron, Mechanized 

(separate lineage); Band and Maintenance and Service Companies disbanded. 

Above Battalions inactivated as follows: 3d Tank Battalion 13 October 1945 at Camp Patrick 

Henry, Virginia. 777th Tank Battalion 24 October 1945 at Camp San Luis Obispo, California. 

21st Tank Battalion 19 October 1945 at Camp Myles Standish, Massachusetts. 

3d, 777th, and 21st Tank Battalions consolidated 8 January 1951 with 3d Armored Cavalry; 

concurrently, 3d and 21st Tank Battalions relieved from assignment to 10th Armored Division. 

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Appendix C 

CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDITS 

Regimental 

Mexican War Civil War

Vera Cruz Chattanooga 

Cerro Gordo New Mexico 1861 

Contreras New Mexico 1862 

Churubusco Alabama 1863 

 Chapultepec Tennessee 1863 Vera 

Cruz 1847 Arkansas 1864 

Indian Wars War With Spain 

Comanches Santiago 

 Cheyennes 

 Utes Philippine Insurrection 

 Little Big Horn Luzon 1899 

 Texas 1856 Luzon 1900 

 New Mexico 1857 San Fabian 

 New Mexico 1858 San Isidro 

 New Mexico 1860 

 New Mexico 1861 World War I 

 New Mexico 1867 Without inscription 

New Mexico 1869

Oklahoma 1868 World War II 

 Arizona 1870 Northern France 

 Arizona 1871 Rhineland 

 Arizona 1882 Ardennes-Alsace 

 Central Europe 

 

Southwest Asia 

 Defense of Saudi Arabia 

 Liberation and Defense of 

 Kuwait 

 No OIF streamers approved 

 at the time of printing 

 75 
 

 

Troops Entitled to Additional Campaign 

Participation Credits 

 TROOP A 

 

Texas 1855 Pecos River, 7 January 1859 

New Mexico 1859 Santa Teresa Mountains, 3 and 18 Dec 1859 

Philippines 1901 Near Parar, Ilocos Norte, 21 February 1901 

 TROOP B 

 

Nebraska 1872 Loupe River, 26 April 1872 

TROOP C

 

South Dakota 1877 Hay Creek, Near Deadwood, 23 February 1877 

TROOP F

Texas 1869 Sangre Canyon, 22 April 1869 

 Near San Augustine Pass, 15 August 1869 

 Guadalupe Mountains, 18 November 1869 

 Sanguinaria Canyon, Guadalupe Mountains, 26 December 1869 

 Delaware Creek, Guadalupe Mountains, 30 December 1869 

TROOP I

Molino del Rey Mexico, 8 September 1847 

 76 
UNIT AWARDS 

Regimental 

Distinguished Unit Citation, embroidered BASTOGNE (The name of this award was changed to 

“The Presidential Unit Citation” on 3 November 1966.)

3d Tank Battalion, 10th Armored Division (less Company C) and Company C, 21st Tank Battalion, 10th Armored Division “for extraordinary heroism in military operations against an 

armed enemy.” 

These units earned this award for their part in the defense of Bastogne, Belgium from 18 to 27 

December, 1944 during the “Battle of the Bulge”. These units were made up of elements of the 

3d (horse) Cavalry that were transferred to the 3d Armored Regiment in July 1942. They were 

consolidated with the 3d Armored Cavalry Regiment on 8 January 1951. 

Belgian Croix de Guerre (1940) With Palm, embroidered BASTOGNE 

This decoration was awarded by the Belgian Government to the 3d Tank Battalion, 10th Armored Division (less Company C) and Company C, 21st Tank Battalion, 10th Armored Division for there part in the defense of Bastogne, Belgium from 18 to 27 December, 1944 These 

units were made up of elements of the 3d (horse) Cavalry and transferred to the 3d Armored 

Regiment in July 1942. They were consolidated with the 3d Armored Cavalry Regiment on 8 

January 1951. Only those soldiers who actually participated in this battle are authorized to 

wear this award on their uniforms. 

Valorous Unit Award for OIF I (citation and inscription not available at time of printing)

77 
Troops 

Present day Troop E (Troop B, 43d Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron in WWII): 

Streamer, French Croix de Guerre (WWII) with Silver-Gilt Star, embroidered MOSELLE (see 

below) 

 

Troop B, 43d Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron (Mechanized) 

French Croix De Guerre With Silver-Gilt Star, awarded under Decision No. 247, 15 July 1946, 

by the President of the Provisional Government of the French Republic, with the following 

citation: 

“A magnificent shock troop, eager and of wonderful courage. It particularly distinguished itself 

on 5 November 1944, at the capture of Berg, which defended the crossing of the Moselle. It 

attacked, without artillery preparation, positions strongly held by a trained and fanatical enemy. 

In spite of gunfire which was annihilating its ranks, this unit gave proof of wonderful dash and, 

aided by tanks, captured the position. It held this position despite terrific bombardment. In the 

course of the mopping up, it took 17 prisoners.” 

Present day Troop K (Troop C, 3d Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron in WWII): 

Streamer, French Croix de Guerre (WWII) with Palm, embroidered LORRAINE (see below) 

Troop C, 3d Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron (Mechanized) 

French Croix De Guerre With Palm, awarded under Decision No. 267, 22 July 1946, by the 

President of the provisional Government of the French Republic, with the following citation: 

“A unit skilled in maneuvers, full of dash, which stood out by the bravery of its fighters. It distinguished itself particularly at Mars-la-Tour, where an enemy airdrome was recaptured with a 

considerable quantity of fuel, at Saint Private and Sainte Marie, by doing effective reconnaissance work for the 7th Armored Division, then in the capture of Metz, by neutralizing on the 

Vionville-Rezonville-Gravelotte-Rezerieulles Line, an important number of emplacements of 

heavy arms and again by bringing back valuable information about the enemy. By this series of 

daring and deep reconnaissance actions during the months of August and September 1944, this 

unit made it possible for the third U. S. Army to advance rapidly across France up to the 

Moselle.” 

 78 
HHT, 4th Squadron and Troops N, O, P, Q, R, S, T: 

Meritorious Unit Commendation (Army), Streamer Embroidered SOUTHWEST ASIA

By direction of the Secretary of the Army, the Meritorious Unit Commendation is awarded to: 

4th Squadron, 3d Armored Cavalry for exceptionally meritorious conduct in performance of 

outstanding service: 

4th Squadron, 3d Armored Cavalry distinguished itself by outstanding meritorious performance 

for the period 23 September 1990 to 5 April 1991, while engaged in combat with Iraqi forces. 

The 4th Squadron, 3d Armored Cavalry screened the Easter flank of the XVIII Airborne Corps 

and maintained contact with the VII Corps. Throughout the campaign, units of the 4th Squadron were in continuous contact with the enemy as the Regiment plunged over 350 kilometers 

deep into Iraq and the heart of the Republican Guard. In all actions and engagements, the 

troopers of the 4th Squadron, 3d Armored Cavalry displayed the true Cavalry spirit, courage, 

and determination to find and defeat the enemy. The accomplishments of the 4th Squadron, 3d 

Armored Cavalry reflects great credit upon themselves and the United States Army. 

Army Superior Unit Award, Streamer Embroidered 1994

By direction of the Secretary of the Army, the Army Superior Unit Award is awarded to: 

4th Squadron, 3d Armored Cavalry for outstanding meritorious performance during peacetime 

of a difficult and challenging mission: 

During the period 27 June 1994 to 1 December 1994, the 4th Squadron, 3d Armored Cavalry 

distinguished itself by excelling in sustainment and training functions while simultaneously 

planning for and executing major force modernization actions. Challenged with a National 

Training Center rotation and the continued testing of several new air defense command, control, 

communication and intelligence systems, the 4th Squadron, 3d Armored Cavalry executed flawless planning and coordination with a spirit, competence and professionalism unequaled in today’s Army. The 4th Squadron, 3d Armored cavalry’s performance of these extraordinarily 

challenging missions, under arduous circumstances, is indicative of the outstanding devotion to 

duty, esprit de corps, selfless service and expertise of its members. The 4th Squadron, 3d Armored Cavalry’s testing of the forward area air defense systems command, control, communication and intelligence system significantly impacted upon the entire Army. The outstanding 

accomplishments of the members of the 4th Squadron, 3d Armored Cavalry are in keeping with 

the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon themselves and the United 

States Army.” 

 79 
80 
Appendix D 

REGIMENTAL MEDAL OF HONOR RECIPIENTS 

The Medal of Honor awarded to Corporal Charles A. Bessey.

Fichter, Hermann Private, Company F, 3d U.S. Cavalry. For gallantry in action at 

Whetstone Mountains, Arizona, 5 May 1871. 

Kilmartin, John Private, Company F, 3d U.S. Cavalry. For gallantry in action at 

Whetstone Mountains, Arizona, 5 May 1871. 

Miller, Daniel H. Private, Company F, 3d U.S. Cavalry. For gallantry in action at 

Whetstone Mountains, Arizona, 5 May 1871. 

Mott, John Sergeant, Company F, 3d U.S. Cavalry. For gallantry in action at 

Whetstone Mountains, Arizona, 5 May 1871. 

Yount, John P. Private, Company F, 3d U.S. Cavalry. For gallantry in action at 

Whetstone Mountains, Arizona, 5 May 1871. 

Cody, William F. Civilian Scout, Company B, 3d U.S. Cavalry. For gallantry in 

 81 
action at Loupe Fork, Platte River, Nebraska, 26 April 1872. 

(Medal rescinded by Act of Congress 21 April, 1916. Reinstated 

per findings of EEO Review Board 12 June 1989). 

Foley, John H. Sergeant, Company B, 3d U.S. Cavalry. For gallantry in action at 

Loupe Fork, Platte River, Nebraska, 26 April 1872. 

Strayer, William H. Private, Company B, 3d U.S. Cavalry. For gallantry in action at 

Loupe Fork, Platte River, Nebraska, 26 April 1872. 

Vokes, Leroy H. First Sergeant, Company B, 3d U.S. Cavalry. For gallantry in 

action at Loupe Fork, Platte River, Nebraska, 26 April 1872. 

Glavinski, Albert Blacksmith, Company M, 3d U.S. Cavalry. For gallantry in action at Powder River, Montana, 17 March 1876. 

McGann, Michael A. First Sergeant, Company F, 3d U. S. Cavalry. For gallantry 

 in action at Rosebud Creek, Montana, 17 June 1876. 

Murphy, Jeremiah Private, Company M, 3d U. S. Cavalry. For gallantry in action at 

Powder River, Montana, 17 June 1876. 

Robinson, Joseph First Sergeant, Company D, 3d U.S. Cavalry. For gallantry in 

action at Rosebud Creek, Montana, 17 June 1876. 

Shingle, John H. First Sergeant, Company I, 3d U.S. Cavalry. For gallantry in 

action at Rosebud Creek, Montana, 17 June 1876. 

Snow, Elmer A. Trumpeter, Company M, 3d U.S. Cavalry. For gallantry in 

action at Rosebud Creek, Montana, 17 June 1876. 

Kirkwood, John A. Sergeant, Company M, 3d U.S. Cavalry. For gallantry in 

 action at Slim Buttes, Dakota Territory, 9 September 1876. 

Smith, Robert Private, Company M, 3d U.S. Cavalry. For gallantry in action at 

Slim Buttes, Dakota Territory, 9 September 1876. 

Bessey, Charles A. Corporal, Company A, 3d U.S. Cavalry. For gallantry in action 

near Elkhorn Creek, Wyoming, 13 January 1877. 

Lewis, William A. Sergeant, Company B, 3d U.S. Cavalry. For gallantry in action at 

Bluff Station, Wyoming, 20-22 January 1877. 

Morgan, George H. 2d Lieutenant, Company K, 3d U.S. Cavalry. For gallantry in 

 action at Big Dry Wash, Arizona 17 July 1882. 

 82 
Taylor, Charles First Sergeant, Company D, 3d U.S. Cavalry. For gallantry in 

action at Big Dry Wash, Arizona, 17 July 1882. 

Walker, Allen Private, Troop C, 3d U.S. Cavalry. For gallantry in action in 

Texas, 30 December 1891. 

Heard, John W. 1st Lieutenant, 3d U.S. Cavalry. For gallantry in action at the 

mouth of the Manimani River, West of Bahia Honda, Cuba, 23 

July 1898. 

 83 
84 
Appendix E 

REGIMENTAL COMMANDERS 

Persifor Frazer Smith 1st Colonel 1846-1857 

William Wing Loring 2nd Colonel 1857-1860 

John Smith Simonson 3rd Colonel 1860-1861 

Marshall Saxe Howe 4th Colonel 1862-1866 

William Nicholson Grier 5th Colonel 1866-1870 

Joseph Jones Reynolds 6th Colonel 1870-1877 

 

Thomas Casimer Devin 7th Colonel 1877-1878 

Washington Lafayette Elliot 8th Colonel 1878-1879 

Albert Gallatin Brackette 9th Colonel 1879-1891 

Albert Payson Morrow 10th Colonel 1891-1892 

Anson Mills 11th Colonel 1892-1895 

Guy Vernor Henry 12th Colonel 1895-1897 

Samuel Baldwin Marks Young 13th Colonel 1897-1900 

Wirt Davis 14th Colonel 1900-1901 

Albert Emmett Woodson 15th Colonel 1901-1903 

Joseph Haddox Dorst 16th Colonel 1903-1911 

Hugh Lennox Scott 17th Colonel 1911-1913 

Augustus Perry Blocksom 18th Colonel 1913-1917 

Francis Henry Beach 19th Colonel 1917-1918 

Lloyd Milton Brett 20th Colonel 1919-1920 

 85 
William Cannon Rivers 21st Colonel 1920-1923 

Hamilton Smith Hawkins 22nd Colonel 1923-1926 

William Jefferson Glasgow 23rd Colonel 1926-1927 

Guy Vernor Henry Jr. 24th Colonel 1927-1930 

Harry Newton Cootes 25th Colonel 1930-1933 

Kenyon Ashe Joyce 26th Colonel 1933-1936 

Jonathan Mayhew Wainwright 27th Colonel 1936-1938 

George Smith Patton, Jr. 28th Colonel 1938-1940 

William Whitelain Gordon 29th Colonel 1940-1941 

Howell M. Estes 30th Colonel 1941-1942 

Frederick Weed Drury 3lst Colonel 1943-1944 

James H. Polk 32nd Colonel 1944-1945 

Walter Burnside 33rd Colonel 1946 

C. H. Valentine 34th Colonel 1946-1947 

Charles A. Sheldon 35th Colonel 1947-1949 

Samuel L. Myers 36th Colonel 1949-1951 

James Owen Curtis, Jr. 37th Colonel 1951-1952 

Clay F. Bridgewater 38th Colonel 1952-1953 

Edward W. Williams 39th Colonel 1954 

Clyde L. Layne 40th Colonel 1954-1955 

William A. Hamberg 41st Colonel 1955-1956 

Robert Edward McCabe 42nd Colonel 1956-1957 

Douglas P. Frazier 43rd Colonel 1957-1958 

 86 
Emmet Robert White 44th Colonel 1958-1960 

John B. Maxwell, III 45th Colonel 1960-1961 

Donald H. Cowles 46th Colonel 1961-1963 

John R. Barclay 47th Colonel 1963-1964 

William J. Boehmer 48th Colonel 1964-1966 

Thomas J. Hanifen 49th Colonel 1966-1967 

Gerald V. Reberry 50th Colonel 1967-1968 

Sidney Hack 51st Colonel 1968-1970 

Kenneth W. Kock 52nd Colonel 1970-1972 

Walter W. Plummer 53rd Colonel 1972-1973 

David K. Doyle 54th Colonel 1973-1975 

John M. Shea 55th Colonel 1975 

Grail L. Brookshire 56th Colonel 1975-1977 

Joseph C. Lutz 57th Colonel 1977-1978 

Richard G. Cardillo 58th Colonel 1978-1980 

William A. Fitzgerald, Jr. 59th Colonel 1980-1983 

James B. Taylor 60th Colonel 1983-1985 

James M. Lyle 61st Colonel 1985-1987 

Jarret J. Robertson 62nd Colonel 1987-1989 

Douglas H. Starr 63rd Colonel 1989-1991 

Robert R. Ivany 64th Colonel 1991-1993 

Robert M. Young 65th Colonel 1993-1994 

Robert Wilson 66th Colonel 1994-1996 

 87 
Martin E. Dempsey 67th Colonel 1996-1998 

Christopher L. Baggot 68th Colonel 1998-2000 

Anthony W. Harriman 69th Colonel 2000-2002 

David A. Teeples 70th Colonel 2002-2004 

H. R. McMaster 71st Colonel 2004-2006 

Michael A. Bills 72nd Colonel 2006- 

 88 
 89 

Appendix F 

REGIMENTAL COMMAND SERGEANTS MAJOR 

Ambrose R. Winans I RCSM 1972-1974 

Charles Bolling II RCSM 1974-1975 

Jacinto Vasquez III RCSM 1975-1978 

Elton R. Allen IV RCSM 1978-1980 

Jack H. Schmidt V RCSM 1980-1982 

Guenter H. Heibich VI RCSM 1982-1984 

Harvey L. Reed VII RCSM 1984-1985 

Bennie R. Causey VIII RCSM 1985-1987 

Howell W. Ramsey IX RCSM 1987-1989 

Dennis E. Worley X RCSM 1989-1992 

Tommy E. Nester XI RCSM 1992 

Dennis E. Webster XII RCSM 1992-1994 

Robert A. Murphy XIII RCSM 1994-1998 

Timothy R. Steiner XIV RCSM 1998-2001 

David A. Hartzell, Jr. XV RCSM 2001-2002 

John R. Caldwell XVI RCSM 2002-2005 

William J. Burns XVII RCSM 2005- 
 90 
Appendix G 

COMPLETE TEXT OF GENERAL SCOTT’S 

REMARKS TO THE REGIMENT AT CONTRERAS 

 

“When the Mounted Rifles reached Contreras on August 19 and 20, they began a battle 

which became a 17-minute dart from the rear and ended in the capture of Contreras and all it 

contained.... Sergeant Hiram Dryer and the other men – dirty, hungry, and tired – threw 

themselves on the ground to rest. Then General Scott rode up! Of course, every man in the 

Regiment, with cap off, was on his feet in a moment. Immediately, a shout was heard that 

would have delighted the heart of any true soldier, no matter what his rank. When quiet was 

restored, the general addressed the men: 

Brave Rifles, veterans – you have been baptized in fire and blood and come out 

steel. Where bloody work was to be done, “the Rifles” was the cry, and there they 

were. All speak of them in terms of praise and admiration. What can I say? What 

shall I say? Language cannot express my feelings of gratitude for your gallant conduct in the terrible conflict of yesterday and this morning. But, my brave boys, in 

the course of one hour more you will be engaged in a more sanguinary engagement 

than the one you have just passed through, and I hope and trust that you will take the 

same noble stand you did yesterday and this morning. And now, men of the Rifle 

Regiment, you may rest assured that a grateful country will reward you for your gallant deeds through this campaign. Goodbye for the present, and God bless you all. 

 First Sergeant Sam McCurdy

 Company D, Mounted Rifles 

 91 
92
93 

Appendix H 

UNITS ATTACHED TO TASK FORCE RIFLES 

DURING OPEATION IRAQI FREEDOM I 

A Company, 122 Engineer Battalion 

A Company, 224th MI BN (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) 

A Company (detachment), 325th Military Intelligence Battalion 

A Company, 411th Civil Affairs Battalion 

B Company, 16th Signal Battalion, 3rd Signal Brigade 

B Company, 202nd Military Intelligence Battalion, 504th MI BDE 

B Company (detachment), 323rd Military Intelligence Battalion 

B Company, 325th Military Intelligence Battalion 

C Company, 2nd Battalion, 6th Infantry 

C Company, 16th Signal Battalion, 3rd Signal Brigade 

C Company, 890th Engineer Battalion 

F Company, 106th Aviation Battalion 

G Company, 285th Air Traffic Services 

HHC, 122 Engineer Battalion 

1st Platoon, B Company, 489th (M) Engineers 

1st Platoon, 151st Adjutant General Company (postal) 

1st Company, 1st Peacekeeping Battalion, Azerbaijani Special Brigade 

1st Battalion, 124th Infantry 

Detachment 1, 2nd BN, 116th Field Artillery (FIST) 

2nd Platoon, E Company (LRSD), 51st Infantry (ABN) 

2nd PLT, D Company, 1st BN, 94th Field Artillery (Acquisition Radar) 

2nd Battalion, 5th Field Artillery 

3rd Bn, 187th Inf, 101st Airborne Division (AASLT) 

54th Engineer Battalion 

94th Military Police Company 

141st Military Intelligence Battalion (detachment) 

142nd Combat Support Battalion 

165th Military Intelligence Battalion (detachment) 

223rd Military Intelligence Battalion (detachment) 

234th Field Artillery Detachment 

274th Quartermaster Company (Shower, Laundry, Clothing Repair) 

297th Quartermaster Company (Rough Terrain Cargo Handler) 

323 Engineer Detachment (Fire Fighting) 

432nd Civil Affairs Battalion (detachment) 

502nd Personnel Service Detachment 

528th Quartermaster Company (Fuel System Supply Point) 
761st Ordnance Company (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) 

936th Forward Surgical Team 

974th Quartermaster Company 

1270th Tactical Pysops Detachment 

1308th Engineer Detachment (Topographic) 

2133rd Transportation Company 

94 
Appendix I 

TASK FORCE RIFLES PERSONNEL WHO DIED 

DURING OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM I 

PFC Vorn J. Mack HHT, 1/3d ACR 

1LT Michael Adams A Troop, 1/3d ACR 

SGT Michael E. Dooley B Troop, 1/3d ACR 

SSG Daniel Bader ADA Btry, 1/3d ACR 

SPC Brian H. Penisten ADA Btry, 1/3d ACR 

SSG Andrew R. Pokorny ADA Btry, 1/3d ACR 

CPT Joshua T. Byers HHT, 2/3d ACR 

SPC Stephen M. Scott HHT, 2/3d ACR 

SGT Thomas F. Broomhead E Troop, 2/3d ACR 

SSG William T Latham E Troop, 2/3d ACR 

SSG Michael B. Quinn E Troop, 2/3d ACR 

PFC Justin W. Pollard. G Troop, 2/3d ACR 

PFC Jesse A. Givens H Company, 2/3d ACR 

SPC Darius T. Jennings How Btry, 2/3d ACR 

PV2 Benjamin L. Freeman K Troop, 3/3d ACR 

SSG Frederick L. Miller, Jr. K Troop, 3/3d ACR 

PFC Armando Soriano How Btry, 3/3d ACR 

CW2 Matthew Laskowski O Troop, 4/3d ACR 

CW2 Stephen Wells O Troop, 4/3d ACR 

SPC Michael A. Diraimondo 571st Medical Co, 4/3d ACR 

SPC Christopher A. Golby 571st Medical Co, 4/3d ACR 

CW2 Hans N. Gukeisen 571st Medical Co, 4/3d ACR 

SGT Richard A. Carl 571st Medical Co, 4/3d ACR 

CW2 Phillip A. Johnson 571st Medical Co, 4/3d ACR 

CW2 Ian D. Manuel 571st Medical Co, 4/3d ACR 

CW3 Brian K. Van Dusen 571st Medical Co, 4/3d ACR 

SGT Ernest G. Bucklew HHT, Support Squadron/3d ACR 

MAJ Mathew E. Schram HHT, Support Squadron/3d ACR 

SPC Rian C. Ferguson S & T Troop, Support Squadron/3d ACR 

SGT Taft V. Williams Maintenance Troop, “ “ 

SSG Stephen A. Bertolino AVIM Troop, Support Squadron/3d ACR 

SPC Spencer T. Karol E Company (LRSD), 51st IN (ABN) 

SGT Joel Perez A Battery, 2nd BN, 5th Field Artillery 

SSG Joe N. Wilson A Battery, 2nd BN, 5th Field Artillery 

SGT Keelan L. Moss B Battery, 2nd BN, 5th Field Artillery 

SPC Steven D. Conover C Battery, 2nd BN, 5th Field Artillery 

SPC Rafael L. Navea C Battery, 2nd BN, 5th Field Artillery 

SGT Ross A. Pennanen C Battery, 2nd BN, 5th Field Artillery 

95 
SGT Paul F. Fisher F Company, 106th Aviation Battalion 

1LT Brian D. Slavenas F Company, 106th Aviation Battalion 

CW4 Bruce A. Smith F Company, 106th Aviation Battalion 

SGT Paul F. Velazquez F Company, 106th Aviation Battalion 

PFC Karina S. Lau B Company, 16th Signal Battalion 

PFC Anthony D. D’Agostino D Company, 16th Signal Battalion 

SSG Richard S. Eaton, Jr. B Company, 323rd MI BN, 205th MI BDE 

SPC Francis M. Vega 1st PLT, 151st AG Company (Postal) 

PFC James A. Chance III C Company, 890th Engineer Battalion 

PFC David M. Kirchoff 2133rd Transportation Company 

SPC Aaron J. Sissel 2133rd Transportation Company 

96 
Appendix J 

UNITS ATTACHED TO THE 

3d ARMORED CAVALRY REGIMENT 

DURING OPEATION IRAQI FREEDOM III 

2nd Battalion, 70th Armor, 1st Armored Division 

2nd Squadron, 14th Cavalry, 25th Infantry Division 

2nd Battalion, 325th Infantry (Airborne), 82nd Airborne Division 

AOB 390, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Special forces Group 

AOB 530, 1st Battalion, 5th Special forces Group 

80th Area Support Team 

98th Area Support Team 

97 
98 
Appendix K 

PERSONNEL ASSIGNED OR ATTACHED TO THE 3d ACR 

WHO DIED DURING OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM III 

 PFC Joseph L. Knott RHHT, 3d ACR 

 MAJ Douglas A. La Bouff RHHT,3d ACR 

 MAJ Michael R. Martinez RHHT, 3d ACR 

 2LT Charles R. Rubado C Troop, 1/3d ACR 

 SPC Joshua T. Brazee How Btry, 1/3d ACR 

 SGT Stephen P. Saxton ADA Btry, 1/3d ACR 

 SGT Charles T. Wilkerson ADA Btry, 1/3d ACR 

 SGT Denis J.Gallardo E Troop, 2/3d ACR 

 CPL Joseph L. Martinez E Troop, 2/3d ACR 

 SGT Tyrone L. Chisholm F Troop, 2/3d ACR 

 SGT Jacob M. Simpson F Troop, 2/3d ACR 

 SPC Hoby F. Bradfield, Jr. G Troop, 2/3d ACR 

 PFC Robert W. Murray, Jr. G Troop, 2/3d ACR 

 SPC Ricky W. Rockholt, Jr. G Troop, 2/3d ACR 

 PFC Eric P. Woods G Troop, 2/3d ACR 

 SSG Brian L. Freeman I Troop, 3/3d ACR 

 CPL Jared W. Kubasak I Troop, 3/3d ACR 

 SFC Christopher W. Phelps I Troop, 3/3d ACR 

 CPL Robert C. Pope II I Troop, 3/3d ACR 

 PFC Mario A. Reyes I Troop, 3/3d ACR 

 1LT Justin S. Smith I Troop, 3/3d ACR 

 SPC Ernest W. Dallas, Jr. K Troop, 3/3d ACR 

 SSG Jason W. Montefering K Troop, 3/3d ACR 

 SGT Milton M. Monzon, Jr. K Troop, 3/3d ACR 

 PFC Ramon A. Villatoro, Jr. K Troop, 3/3d ACR 

 SPC Ronnie D. Williams K Troop, 3/3d ACR 

 SPC Eric J. Poelman L Troop, 3/3d ACR 

 SPC Brian S. Ulbrich L Troop, 3/3d ACR 

 SSG Justin L. Vasquez L Troop, 3/3d ACR 

 SFC Eric P. Pearrow M Company, 3/3d ACR 

 SGT Timothy J. Sutton M Company, 3/3d ACR 

 SSG Scottie L. Bright How Btry, 3/3d ACR 

 CPL Lyle J. Cambridge How Btry, 3/3d ACR 

 SPC Robert A. Swaney How Btry, 3/3d ACR 

 SSG Jeremy A. Brown 66th MI Company, 3/3d ACR 

 1LT Joseph D. deMoors 66th MI Company, 3/3d ACR 

 CW2 Dennis P. Hay P Troop, 4/3d ACR 

 SGT Timothy R. Boyce Maintenance Troop, Supt/3d ACR 

 

99 
 CPL Jeffrey A. Williams Medical Troop, Supt/3d ACR 

 SFC Brett E. Walden 1st Battalion, 5th Special Forces Group 

 LTC Terrance K. Crowe 98th AST Military Transition Team 

 SFC Robert V. Derenda 80th AST Military Transition Team 

 SGT Ivan V. Alarcon 473rd Quartermaster Company 

 

100 
Appendix L 

LETTER FROM MAYOR NAJIM TO PRSIDENT BUSH 

101 
102 
Appendix M 

LETTER OF APRECIATION FROM MG KHORSHEED, 

COMMANDING GENERAL OF THE 3RD IRAQI 

ARMY INFANTRY DIVISION, TO THE 

3d ARMORED CAVALRY REGIMENT 

103 
104 
Appendix N 

CURRENT ORGANIZATION OF THE REGIMENT 

Configuration of Maneuver Squadrons 

Armored Cavalry Squadrons Aviation Squadron

Headquarters and Headquarters Troop Headquarters and Headquarters Troop 

Cavalry Troop Attack Troop 

Cavalry Troop Attack Troop 

Cavalry Troop Attack Troop 

Tank Company Lift Troop 

Self-propelled Howitzer Battery Aviation Unit Maintenance Troop 

Attachment(s)* Aviation Intermediate Maintenance Troop

 

3d Armored Cavalry (Brave Rifles) Regiment

Regimental Headquarters and Headquarters (Remington) Troop 

1st (Tiger) Squadron 2nd (Saber) Squadron

Headquarters (Roughrider) Troop Headquarters (Rattlers) Troop 

A (Apache) Troop E (Eagle) Troop 

B (Bandit) Troop F (Fox) Troop 

C (Crazyhorse) Troop G (Grim) Troop 

D (Dragon) Company H (Heavy) Company 

Howitzer (King) Battery Howitzer (Red Lions) Battery 

 43rd Engineer (Sapper) Company* 

 3rd (Thunder) Squadron 4th (Long Knife) Squadron 

Headquarters (Havoc) Troop Headquarters (Headhunter) Troop 

I (Ironhawk) Troop N (Nomad) Troop 

 K (Killer) Troop O (Outlaw) Troop

 L (Lightning) Troop P (Pegasus) Troop

M (Mad Dog) Company S (Stetson) Troop 

Howitzer (Regulator) Battery T (Tomahawk) Troop 

66th (Ghost Rider) Military Intelligence Company* AVUM Troop 

 AVIM Troop 

 105 
Support (Mule Skinner) Squadron

Headquarters (Bullwhip) Troop 

Supply and Transportation (Packhorse) Troop 

Medical (Scalpel) Troop 

Maintenance (Blacksmith) Troop 

89th Chemical (Chemdawgs) Company 

 

Weapons Systems and Aircraft 

M1A2 SEP Abrams main battle tank 41 per squadron (1st, 2nd, 3rd) 

M3A3 Bradley cavalry fighting vehicle 41 per squadron (1st, 2nd, 3rd) 

M109A6 Paladin 155mm self-propelled howitzer 6 per squadron (1st, 2nd, 3rd) 

M121 120mm mortar carrier 6 per squadron (1st, 2nd, 3rd) 

AH-64D Apache attack helicopter 8 per troop (N, O, P) 

UH-60L Blackhawk utility helicopter 10 per troop (S) 

Traditional Cavalry Missions 

Reconnaissance Operations Security Operations

Zone Reconnaissance Screen 

Area Reconnaissance Guard 

 Cover 

 106