3rd Cavalry Regiment

The 3rd Cavalry Regiment “Brave Rifles” is one of the U.S. Army’s oldest and most storied units. From the Mexican-American War to the Civil War, World Wars, Iraq, and Afghanistan, the regiment has carried its motto “Brave Rifles!” across nearly two centuries of service. Airborne Apparel Company is proud to offer reproductions and unique designs that celebrate the legacy of the 3rd Cavalry Regiment.

The 3rd Cavalry Regiment was organized in 1846 during the Mexican-American War, originally as the Regiment of Mounted Riflemen. Its Soldiers quickly earned the nickname “Brave Rifles” from General Winfield Scott during the march into Mexico City, a title that endures today. The regiment fought in numerous engagements of the war, including Cerro Gordo, Contreras, Churubusco, and Chapultepec.

19th Century Campaigns

Following the Mexican War, the regiment was stationed across the American frontier, where it took part in the Indian Wars, enforcing U.S. expansion into the West. During the Civil War, the unit fought on both the Western and Eastern fronts, serving as a versatile mounted force. Afterward, it returned to frontier duty and later deployed to Cuba during the Spanish-American War in 1898.

20th Century Conflicts

• World War I: The regiment conducted security and training roles, preparing for mechanization.

• World War II: Reorganized as a mechanized cavalry unit, the 3rd Cavalry Regiment deployed to North Africa, Italy, France, and Germany, conducting reconnaissance and screening operations. It served under Patton’s Third Army and participated in the liberation of Europe.

• Cold War: The regiment became one of the Army’s forward-deployed units in Europe, stationed in Germany, where it patrolled the Iron Curtain and stood as a first line of defense against potential Soviet aggression.

Global War on Terror

In the 21st century, the 3rd Cavalry Regiment deployed multiple times to both Iraq and Afghanistan:

• In Iraq, it conducted counterinsurgency operations in Baghdad, Mosul, and Anbar, often partnering with Iraqi Security Forces.

• In Afghanistan, the regiment operated in Kandahar and other contested areas, performing mounted and dismounted reconnaissance, route security, and advising missions.

Current Mission

Today, the 3rd Cavalry Regiment is based at Fort Cavazos (formerly Fort Hood), Texas, where it serves as a Stryker Brigade Combat Team under III Corps. Its mission remains to provide rapid, flexible cavalry capabilities for global contingency operations.

Identity & Legacy

• Nickname: “Brave Rifles”

• Motto: “Brave Rifles! Veterans!” (coined in 1847 during Mexico City victory)

• Unique Distinction: One of the oldest continuously serving regiments in the U.S. Army with a heritage spanning nearly 180 years

• Decorations: Campaign streamers from every major U.S. conflict since 1846, including Presidential Unit Citations and Valorous Unit Awards

Enduring Significance

From the battlefields of Mexico to the streets of Baghdad, the 3rd Cavalry Regiment has stood as a symbol of American cavalry strength and adaptability. Its long service reflects nearly two centuries of combat tradition and its continuing motto of “Brave Rifles—Veterans!”

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Airborne Apparel Company is proud to offer reproductions and unique designs that celebrate the legacy of the 3rd Cavalry Regiment.