3rd Cavalry

3rd Cavalry Regiment

The 3rd Cavalry Regiment has a rich history steeped in the Cavalry tradition. Its origins trace back to the 7th Irregular Cavalry, raised in 1841 at Bareilly, and its offshoot, the 17th Cavalry, raised in 1846 at Sultanpur. Over time, these units underwent several re-designations and eventually became known as the 5th Cavalry and 8th Cavalry by the turn of the 20th century.

Early History and Battle Honours:

• Formation and Early Actions: Both regiments served extensively in India and abroad, participating in campaigns in Afghanistan, Bhutan, Mesopotamia, and Palestine.
• Battle Honours: They earned Battle Honours for their actions in Afghanistan (1879-80) and Mesopotamia (1916-18).

Amalgamation and Indianisation:

• Formation of 3rd Cavalry: In 1922, the two regiments were amalgamated to form the 5th/8th Cavalry, which was re-designated as the 3rd Cavalry in 1923. It was one of the first regiments to be Indianised.

World War II and Malaya Campaign:

• 1941 Campaign: While being equipped with armoured cars, the 3rd Cavalry campaigned in Malaya to counter the Japanese advance. The regiment distinguished itself in battles at Taiping, Sungei Pattani, Penang Island, Perak River, and Slim River, earning the commendation “The Third Cavalry stood fast.”
• Battle Honours: The regiment earned Battle Honours “North Malaya” and “Central Malaya,” and Theatre Honour “Malaya 1941-42” for its commendable service.

Post-World War II Era:

• Airborne Reconnaissance: In 1946, the regiment converted to an ‘Airborne Reconnaissance Regiment,’ becoming the first armoured regiment of the Indian Army to do so.
• Liberation of Hyderabad: In 1948, the 3rd Cavalry played a crucial role in liberating Hyderabad from the Razakars, integrating it into the Indian Union.

Modern Era and Key Battles:

• Centurion Tanks: In the 1950s, the 3rd Cavalry became the first armoured regiment to be re-equipped with Centurion tanks.
• 1965 Indo-Pak War: On September 8, 1965, the regiment, commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Salim Caleb (later Major General Salim Caleb, Mahavir Chakra, Retired), defended against enemy tanks at Khem Karan village, preventing the capture of the Beas Bridge. They received accolades from Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri and Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa, and earned the Battle Honour “Asal Uttar” and Theatre Honour “Punjab 1965.”
• 1971 Indo-Pak War: The regiment captured the defensive position of Shehjra on the Sutlej River, earning Battle Honour “Shehjra” and Theatre Honour “Punjab 1971.”

Awards and Recognition:

• Decorations: Personnel from the 3rd Cavalry have earned numerous accolades, including two Param Vishisht Seva Medals, one Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, one Maha Vir Chakra, two Vir Chakras, eight Sena Medals, eleven Mentions in Despatches, and three Commendation Cards.

The 3rd Cavalry continues to uphold its proud traditions and history, contributing significantly to the defence and honour of India.