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The 2nd Cavalry Regiment “Dragoons” is the U.S. Army’s longest continuously serving cavalry regiment. With combat history spanning the Mexican-American War, Civil War, World Wars, the Cold War, Iraq, and Afghanistan, the regiment continues to serve today in Europe as part of NATO’s forward presence. Airborne Apparel Company is proud to offer reproductions and unique designs that celebrate the legacy of the 2nd Cavalry Regiment.
Constituted in 1836 as the 2nd U.S. Dragoons, the regiment was created to defend the American frontier. It first saw combat in the Seminole Wars in Florida, where its troopers gained a reputation for mobility and toughness in harsh terrain. The regiment also played a major role in the Mexican-American War, charging at Resaca de la Palma and Monterrey, and later storming Chapultepec in Mexico City.
Civil War & Indian Wars
During the Civil War, elements of the regiment fought with the Union Army, serving in both cavalry and dragoon roles. Afterward, the 2nd Cavalry was sent west during the Indian Wars, where it conducted campaigns across the Great Plains against hostile tribes, supporting America’s expansion westward.
20th Century Conflicts
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World War I: Assigned to the American Expeditionary Force, the regiment operated in both cavalry and security roles, transitioning toward mechanization.
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World War II: As armored cavalry, the regiment fought in Europe, spearheading reconnaissance for Third Army under General George S. Patton. Its actions in France and Germany earned multiple unit citations.
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Cold War: Stationed in West Germany, the 2nd Cavalry patrolled the East-West German border for decades, serving as one of NATO’s tripwire forces during the height of the Cold War.
Global War on Terror
In the 21st century, the 2nd Cavalry Regiment deployed repeatedly to Iraq and Afghanistan. In Iraq, it operated in Baghdad, Diyala, and Anbar Provinces, conducting counterinsurgency and stability operations. In Afghanistan, its squadrons supported operations in Kandahar and other contested areas, combining cavalry reconnaissance with modern mechanized firepower.
Modern Mission in Europe
Today, the 2nd Cavalry Regiment is an active Stryker Brigade Combat Team headquartered at Rose Barracks in Vilseck, Germany. It serves as part of the U.S. Army Europe and Africa command, with a mission focused on NATO deterrence and collective defense. Its Soldiers regularly deploy to Poland, the Baltic States, and Eastern Europe as part of Operation Atlantic Resolve and other multinational training and deterrence efforts.
Identity & Legacy
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Nickname: “Second Dragoons” or simply “Dragoons”
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Motto: “Toujours Prêt” (“Always Ready”)
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Branch/Role: Cavalry – now organized as a Stryker Brigade
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Unique Distinction: The oldest continuously serving cavalry regiment in the U.S. Army, with an unbroken lineage since 1836
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Decorations: Presidential Unit Citations, French Croix de Guerre, Valorous Unit Awards, and numerous campaign streamers
Enduring Significance
For nearly two centuries, the 2nd Cavalry Regiment has embodied the spirit of American cavalry: speed, readiness, and adaptability. From frontier dragoon patrols to Cold War border security and modern NATO missions, the Dragoons have remained “Toujours Prêt”—always ready to fight and win.
Airborne Apparel Company is proud to offer reproductions and unique designs that celebrate the legacy of the 2nd Cavalry Regiment.