11th Armored Cavalry Regiment

11th Armored Cavalry Regiment
Unit name	11th Armored Cavalry Regiment
Caption	Distinctive unit insignia
Dates	1901–present
Country	United States
Branch	United States Army
Type	Armored cavalry
Role	Reconnaissance and security
Size	Regiment
Garrison	Fort Irwin
Nickname	"Blackhorse Regiment"
Motto	"Allons"
Colors	Black and white
Battles	Philippine–American War, World War I, World War II, Vietnam War, Cold War, Gulf War, Iraq War
Current commander	Colonel

11th Armored Cavalry Regiment. The 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, known as the "Blackhorse Regiment," is a storied United States Army armored cavalry unit. Its history spans over a century of service, from the Philippine–American War to modern conflicts in Iraq. The regiment is famed for its role as the opposing force at the National Training Center at Fort Irwin, where it trains U.S. and allied forces for high-intensity combat.

History

The regiment was constituted in 1901, initially serving in the Philippine–American War before garrison duties in the United States. It saw extensive action in World War I as part of the American Expeditionary Forces, participating in major offensives like the Meuse–Argonne offensive. Reactivated for World War II, the regiment fought across the European Theater of Operations, including the Battle of the Bulge and the advance into Germany. During the Cold War, it was a key element of U.S. Army Europe, stationed along the Inner German border facing the Warsaw Pact. Its most intense combat came during the Vietnam War, where it conducted armored cavalry operations in III Corps and the Cambodian campaign. Following Vietnam, it assumed its enduring mission at the National Training Center in 1980, simulating Soviet Red Army tactics.

Organization

The regiment is organized as a traditional heavy armored cavalry regiment, comprising three squadrons. These include the 1st Squadron "Ironhorse," the 2nd Squadron "Eagle," and the 3rd Squadron "Workhorse." Each squadron contains a headquarters troop, three cavalry troops, and a tank company. The regiment also maintains a support squadron, the 11th Regiment Support Squadron "Muleskinner," and an aviation squadron, the 4th Squadron "Thunderhorse." This structure allows it to function as a self-contained, combined arms team for its training mission, integrating M1 Abrams tanks, Bradley fighting vehicles, and AH-64 Apache attack helicopters.

Equipment

As the opposing force for the National Training Center, the regiment utilizes a mix of standard and modified equipment. Its primary armor includes the M1 Abrams main battle tank and the M2 Bradley infantry fighting vehicle. For reconnaissance and security, it employs the M3 Bradley cavalry fighting vehicle. The regiment's aviation element, 4th Squadron, fields the AH-64 Apache and OH-58 Kiowa helicopters. To accurately portray potential adversaries, vehicles are often modified with visual identification systems and utilize specific tactical doctrine, providing a realistic threat for rotating brigade combat teams training at Fort Irwin.

Notable deployments

Beyond its training role, the regiment has deployed for combat operations multiple times. During the Vietnam War, it operated in areas including the Iron Triangle and near Saigon. Elements deployed to Southwest Asia for Operation Desert Storm, providing rear-area security. Following the September 11 attacks, the regiment deployed to Iraq for the Iraq War, conducting security and stability operations in Baghdad and surrounding regions from 2005 to 2006 and again from 2009 to 2010 under Multi-National Force – Iraq.

Honors and traditions

The regiment's honors include numerous campaign streamers from its wars and multiple unit awards like the Valorous Unit Award and the Meritorious Unit Commendation. Its nickname, "Blackhorse," originates from its distinctive black and white colors and insignia. The motto "Allons" (French for "Let's Go") reflects its aggressive spirit. The regimental crest features a charging black horse on a shield, a symbol worn proudly by all members. The regiment also maintains the tradition of the "Blackhorse Run," a challenging unit physical fitness test.

In popular culture

The 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment has been depicted in several films and books about the Vietnam War. It features prominently in the memoir "Chickenhawk" by Robert Mason, which details helicopter operations with the regiment's aviation unit. The regiment's unique opposing force mission at the National Training Center has been covered in military documentaries and studies on modern warfare training, highlighting its critical role in preparing the U.S. Army for combat against peer adversaries.

Category:Armored cavalry regiments of the United States Army Category:Military units and formations established in 1901