6th Cavalry Regiment Distinctive Unit Insignia
Description:A Gold color metal and enamel device 1 1/4 inches (3.18 cm) in height overall consisting of a shield blazoned: Azure, a unicorn rampant, Or.
Symbolism: The Regiment took part in the eastern campaigns of the Civil War, its outstanding feats being at Williamsburg, Virginia, 1862, when it assaulted intrenched works, and at Fairfield, Pennsylvania, 1863. At Fairfield the unit engaged two enemy brigades of cavalry, completely neutralizing them and saving the supply trains of the Army, but in the process was literally cut to pieces. This is symbolized by the unicorn, held to represent the knightly virtues and, in the rampant position, a symbol of fighting aggressiveness, combined with speed and activity. The shield is blue, the color of the Federal uniform in the Civil War.
Background:
The distinctive unit insignia was originally approved for the 6th Cavalry Regiment on 11 August 1922. It was redesignated for the 6th Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron (Mechanized) on 24 July 1944. It was redesignated for the 6th Constabulary Squadron on 21 January 1948. It was redesignated for the 6th Armored Cavalry Regiment on 18 March 1949. The insignia was amended to delete the motto on 23 May 1957. The insignia was redesignated for the 6th Cavalry Regiment on 9 September 1974.