The 1st Squadron, 91st Cavalry Regiment (Airborne), widely known as “The Airborne Cav,” served as the reconnaissance squadron of the 173rd Airborne Brigade. Based in Germany, its paratroopers conducted mounted and dismounted reconnaissance, deployed to Afghanistan, and trained with allied forces across Europe. The squadron held its inactivation ceremony on January 8, 2026, when the brigade welcomed the reactivated 3rd Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment.
The regiment's heritage includes World War II reconnaissance service in the Mediterranean theater. Its modern airborne chapter began with the activation of 1st Squadron, 91st Cavalry Regiment in 2006 as part of the 173rd Airborne Brigade's reorganization.
Airborne Reconnaissance Mission
The squadron provided reconnaissance, surveillance, and target acquisition for the brigade commander. Its mounted and dismounted troops gathered information on terrain and opposing forces and supported the brigade's ability to deploy rapidly. Army reporting from its service in Germany documents the unit's airborne training and its work with U.S. Air Force and allied partners.
Deployments & Operations
Afghanistan: The squadron served on multiple deployments during Operation Enduring Freedom, conducting combat operations and working with Afghan partners.
Europe: Its paratroopers participated in multinational exercises and readiness missions, including training associated with Atlantic Resolve.
Structure and Training
During its service with the 173rd, 1-91 combined headquarters, reconnaissance, and support capabilities. Its training included mounted and dismounted patrolling, airborne operations, and coordination with other elements of the brigade. These were the functions of an airborne cavalry squadron, rather than a separate Special Forces or Pathfinder organization.
Identity & Heraldry
Documented unit identity: “The Airborne Cav.”
Heraldic motto: “ALERT.”
Distinctive unit insignia: The design incorporates a wheel and horseshoe, reflecting mechanized mobility and cavalry heritage, with “ALERT” on the scroll.
2026 Inactivation and Brigade Reorganization
On January 8, 2026, the squadron cased its colors at Grafenwöhr, Germany. The accompanying ceremony reactivated 3-504 PIR within the 173rd Airborne Brigade. This marked a change in the brigade's force structure; it should not be described as a merger of the 91st Cavalry Regiment's lineage with that of the 504th Infantry.
Enduring Significance
The 1st Squadron, 91st Cavalry Regiment remains an important part of the 173rd's modern history. Its Airborne Cav identity preserves the experience of the scouts and support personnel who served in the squadron during its airborne years.
Historical Sources
- 1-91 CAV Reflagging to 3-504 PIR. U.S. Army, Training Support Activity Europe, via DVIDS. Photograph and caption dated January 8, 2026, documenting the ceremony at Grafenwöhr.
- Operation Saber Charge puts “Airborne Cav” leaders to the test. U.S. Army, April 7, 2009. Contemporary evidence of the Airborne Cav identity and mounted, dismounted, and airborne training.
- 173rd Airborne and 37th Airlift Squadron interoperability training. U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa. Reference for airborne cooperation with Air Force partners.
These references address the modern squadron and its ceremony, rather than documenting every earlier lineage or heraldic detail. AAC historical sources and editorial standards.
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