107th Armored Cavalry Regiment

107th Armored Cavalry Regiment is a regiment of the Ohio Army National Guard. It was constituted in the Ohio National Guard following World War II and has served as a key armored formation throughout the Cold War and into the 21st century. The regiment has undergone numerous reorganizations, transitioning from a heavy brigade to a reconnaissance and surveillance unit, and has deployed personnel in support of multiple overseas contingency operations.

History

The lineage of the 107th Armored Cavalry Regiment traces its origins to the post-war reorganization of the Ohio National Guard. It was originally designated the 107th Armored Cavalry Regiment in 1947, drawing personnel and traditions from earlier Ohio-based units. During the Cold War, the regiment was a critical component of the National Guard's strategic reserve, training extensively for potential conflict with the Soviet Union on the plains of Europe. Elements of the regiment were activated during the Berlin Crisis of 1961, with troops federalized and stationed at Fort Polk in Louisiana. Following the end of the Cold War, the regiment was reorganized, with its 2nd Squadron being redesignated as the 2nd Squadron, 107th Cavalry Regiment and serving as the reconnaissance element for the 37th Infantry Brigade Combat Team. In the post-September 11 attacks era, the regiment's squadrons have been repeatedly deployed, with soldiers serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom, and other global missions, often providing vital security force and train, advise, assist support to allied nations.

Organization

The regiment is headquartered in Stow, Ohio. Its primary subordinate units include the 1st Squadron and the 2nd Squadron, 107th Cavalry Regiment. The 1st Squadron is a reconnaissance squadron, while the 2nd Squadron serves as the brigade reconnaissance squadron for the 37th Infantry Brigade Combat Team. These squadrons are composed of cavalry troops equipped with a variety of platforms, including the M1127 Reconnaissance Vehicle (a variant of the Stryker), M3 Bradley cavalry fighting vehicles in past configurations, and lighter tactical vehicles. The regiment's organization reflects the modern United States Army's emphasis on modular, deployable units capable of conducting security cooperation and reconnaissance across diverse operational environments.

Insignia and heraldry

The regiment's coat of arms and distinctive unit insignia feature symbols reflecting its Ohio heritage and cavalry mission. The primary colors often include blue and white, representing its Infantry lineage and Armor branch affiliation, respectively. Heraldic elements typically incorporate a chevron and a horse's head, symbolizing strength and mobility. The unit's shoulder sleeve insignia, or patch, is worn by assigned personnel and is a key identifier within the Ohio Army National Guard. These insignia are formally recorded and protected by the United States Army Institute of Heraldry.

Notable members

Several individuals who served with the regiment or its predecessor units achieved prominence in military or public service. John J. Gilligan, who later served as the 62nd Governor of Ohio, was a veteran of World War II with service in an earlier Ohio National Guard unit. Michael G. Calhoun, a former Adjutant General of the Ohio National Guard, oversaw the regiment during a period of significant transformation and deployment. Numerous other officers and non-commissioned officers from the regiment have risen to senior leadership positions within the National Guard Bureau and the United States Department of Defense.

Campaign participation credit

Personnel from the 107th Armored Cavalry Regiment have earned campaign participation credit for service in several major conflicts and operations. This includes the Global War on Terrorism, with specific campaign streamers for Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. During the Cold War, the regiment received credit for the Berlin Crisis mobilization. While the regiment as a whole was not deployed to Vietnam or the Korean War, its lineage units have historical credit for campaigns in earlier 20th-century conflicts, including World War II and World War I.

Category:Armored cavalry regiments of the United States Army Category:Ohio Army National Guard Category:Military units and formations established in 1947