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The "Cav Hat" |
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| Links Division Cav Hat MOI Souvenir Shop Catalog |
The History of the Cav Hat The tradition of the "Cav Hat" began in the early days before the Vietnam War. The 11th Air Assault Division cavalry scout pilots were looking to distinguish themselves from other troops when they adopted the Model 1876 campaign hat for wear. They felt a need to return to the traditions of the Cavalry so long forgotten. LTC John B. Stockton, commander of the 3rd Battalion, 17th Cavalry Regiment, is given credit for establishing the tradition of wearing the Cavalry Stetson, much to the chagrin of the Division command group. By the time the 11th Air Assault Division was redesignated the 1st Cavalry Division (Air Mobile) the members of his unit, the 1st Squadron, 9th Cavalry Regiment, were wearing the hat.
LTC Stockton transferred the "Cav Hat" tradition to the 1st Cavalry Division in Vietnam. By the end of the Vietnam War, many air and ground units were wearing the hat. The tradition was continued after Vietnam and has become the standard for all cavalry units in the Army. The Cav Hat is not an issued item and is not covered in any of the uniform regulations but it is worn by the Troopers of the 1st Cavalry Division and many other cavalry units for ceremonies and special cavalry events. When is a Cav Hat appropriate for wear? The answer to that question is always - unless you are presently an active duty Trooper. Active duty Troopers are bound by uniform policies and wear of the "Cav Hat" is covered in an Memorandum of Instruction provided on this web page. All former Cav Troopers may wear their "Cav Hat" at their own pleasure. Of course, never wear your "Cav Hat" in circumstances that would bring discredit to the Cavalry. Where can I purchase my Cav Hat? Troopers may purchase a Cav Hat anywhere that sells them but we strongly recommend that you purchase your Cav Hat (Stetson) from the Crossed Sabers Souvenir Shop located in the 1st Cavalry Division Museum at Fort Hood, Texas. For those of you that live elsewhere, the Souvenir Shop has an on-line catalog and you can order your Stetson from them and have it shipped to your home. The Crossed Sabers Souvenir Shop sells the official Cav Stetson made by Stetson Hat Company in Garland, Texas. Live the Legend!
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