B Troop Fort Huachuca: Honoring 50 Years of Cavalry Tradition in Sierra Vista
The History and Legacy of B Troop, 4th U.S. Cavalry (Memorial) at Fort Huachuca
By Joshua Mayer – Homebase Sierra Vista
If you've spent any time in Sierra Vista or attended a Veterans Day parade, rodeo, or military ceremony at Fort Huachuca, chances are you've seen B Troop, 4th U.S. Cavalry (Memorial) in action. Dressed in authentic 1880s U.S. Cavalry uniforms and riding proudly on horseback, B Troop is more than just a ceremonial unit—they’re a living link to Army history in the American Southwest.
Established in 1973 at Fort Huachuca, Arizona, B Troop’s mission has always been to preserve the traditions of the U.S. Army’s horse cavalry. For over 50 years, this unique volunteer unit has brought the Army’s frontier-era history to life, honoring the soldiers, and horses, who helped shape the region.
What Is B Troop, 4th U.S. Cavalry (Memorial)?
B Troop is a ceremonial cavalry unit made up of active-duty soldiers, military retirees, Department of Defense civilians, and family members. Volunteers are outfitted in period-correct uniforms from the 1880s and perform mounted cavalry drills using traditional weapons like sabers and carbines. Everything from the tack to the uniforms is authentic to the post-Civil War cavalry era.
The unit was officially sanctioned by the Army, but unlike most military units, B Troop had zero authorized manpower, every position was filled by dedicated volunteers. Their efforts preserved cavalry heritage while also supporting Army community outreach, public education, and recruitment across Arizona and beyond.
Why B Troop Matters to Fort Huachuca and Cochise County
Fort Huachuca itself is deeply rooted in cavalry tradition. Originally established in 1877 to protect settlers and trade routes in the Arizona Territory, it later became home to the legendary Buffalo Soldiers of the 10th Cavalry Regiment. B Troop helps carry forward that legacy, not just by honoring the Army’s past, but by embodying it.
The unit has participated in countless public events, including:
Veterans Day and Fourth of July parades
Rodeos and reenactments
Change of command and retirement ceremonies
School visits and military heritage programs
Through these appearances, B Troop has educated thousands of civilians, military families, and visitors about U.S. Cavalry history and the role Fort Huachuca played in protecting the American frontier.
The Horses of B Troop
At the heart of B Troop’s story are the horses themselves. The unit typically cared for around a dozen horses, many adopted from the Bureau of Land Management’s wild mustang program. These horses were trained for ceremonial drill maneuvers and developed strong bonds with their riders.
Each horse had a unique personality and role within the unit, some playful, others more stoic, all contributing to B Troop’s reputation for discipline, tradition, and heart. Their presence was a favorite at public events and brought joy and connection to the community.
What’s Next for B Troop?
In 2025, as part of a larger Army-wide reorganization of ceremonial units, B Troop will be officially inactivated. Fort Huachuca is one of five military installations affected by this transition, which will phase out Military Working Equid (MWE) programs in favor of focusing resources on operational readiness.
The Army is ensuring that each horse is rehomed responsibly. Some have already been adopted, and others will be made available through a formal adoption process that includes veterinary evaluations and a review board to match each animal with the right owner.
Although the unit will no longer ride in formation, the impact B Troop has made on Fort Huachuca and Southern Arizona will never fade.
How to Keep B Troop’s Legacy Alive
If you’ve ever seen B Troop ride, taken a photo at one of their events, or learned something new about Army history in Arizona, now is the perfect time to share that experience. Post your stories, tag a trooper, and help keep the legacy of B Troop alive for the next generation.
For those wanting to dive deeper into the history, the Fort Huachuca Museum is a great place to explore the post’s cavalry roots, including exhibits that feature B Troop’s uniforms, equipment, and heritage.
Final Thoughts
B Troop, 4th U.S. Cavalry (Memorial), has stood as a proud symbol of military tradition, community connection, and living history for more than five decades. Their contribution to Fort Huachuca, Sierra Vista, and the wider military community has been immeasurable.
Thank you, B Troop, for the legacy you’ve created, the history you’ve preserved, and the pride you’ve inspired.
Your story will always ride on.
Joshua Mayer
Realtor®, Veteran, and Sierra Vista Community Advocate
📞 520-481-2909
📧 Joshua.j.mayer87@gmail.com
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