The 1st Squadron, 17th Cavalry Regiment (Airborne) is one of the premier cavalry and reconnaissance units of the U.S. Army. Activated in 1916, the regiment’s squadrons served in World War I, World War II, Korea, and Vietnam, earning a reputation for bold reconnaissance and combat aviation support. Today, 1-17 CAV serves as part of the 82nd Combat Aviation Brigade, 82nd Airborne Division, conducting air reconnaissance and security missions with helicopters and unmanned systems. Airborne Apparel Company is proud to offer reproductions and unique designs that celebrate the legacy of the 1st Squadron, 17th Cavalry Regiment.
The 17th Cavalry Regiment was constituted in the Regular Army in 1916, during the buildup of U.S. forces on the Mexican border. Like many cavalry regiments of the era, its lineage shifted through the 20th century as the Army transformed from horse-mounted formations into mechanized and eventually airborne and aviation-capable units.
Korea and Vietnam
Elements of the 17th Cavalry served with distinction in both the Korean War and Vietnam War, conducting reconnaissance, security, and direct combat missions. The regiment’s squadrons transitioned into air cavalry formations in Vietnam, using helicopters for aerial reconnaissance, troop transport, and fire support. During this period, 17th Cavalry troopers became known for their aggressiveness and versatility in jungle warfare.
Modern Airborne Role
The 1st Squadron, 17th Cavalry Regiment (Airborne) is currently assigned to the 82nd Combat Aviation Brigade, 82nd Airborne Division, at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. As an airborne cavalry squadron, 1-17 CAV specializes in:
-
Aerial reconnaissance – detecting, tracking, and reporting enemy forces.
-
Security operations – screening flanks and providing early warning for ground formations.
-
Attack support – employing helicopters and aerial-delivered fires.
-
Integration with airborne units – serving as the aviation eyes and ears of the 82nd Airborne Division.
Campaigns and Honors
The regiment’s lineage carries battle honors from World War II, Korea, and Vietnam, and its squadrons have deployed extensively in modern conflicts, including Operation Desert Storm, Iraq, and Afghanistan. Decorations include Presidential Unit Citations, Valorous Unit Awards, and numerous campaign streamers for its long service.
Nickname and Identity
While the 17th Cavalry as a whole carries no single nickname like the infantry regiments, its squadrons—such as 1-17 CAV—are often referred to informally as the “Eyes of the Division,” reflecting their reconnaissance mission for the 82nd Airborne Division.
Legacy
From horseback patrols on the Mexican border to helicopter reconnaissance in Vietnam and modern aviation missions in Iraq and Afghanistan, the 1st Squadron, 17th Cavalry Regiment (Airborne) exemplifies the adaptability of cavalry in the airborne age. Its troopers remain at the forefront of reconnaissance, embodying the tradition of cavalry boldness in support of the paratroopers of the 82nd Airborne Division.
Airborne Apparel Company is proud to offer reproductions and unique designs that celebrate the legacy of the 1st Squadron, 17th Cavalry Regiment.