[BetaDeltaKA]

When did US cavalry units cease the issue of sidearms to enlisted men? I am pretty sure the M1911 was standard issue to the mounted troops on Pershing's Punitive Expedition of 1916 but this is the last instance of a handgun being standard issue to enlisted soldiers that I can find.

My guess is that when cavalry units were dismounted for use in World War I their pistols and sabers were taken away, but I can't find any support.

Any help is welcome

PS- Merry Christmas to all

 

[Clyde]

We actually sent mounted cavalry to Fwance in WWI, and there is an account of a mounted attack on a German posiiton (I think by Courtney Hodges, in any case a then-lieutenant who later wore a buncha stars in the next war) in 1918.

US maintained cavalry units (as in horse cav) until 1940 or 1941 (and the regiment n the Philippines when the war popped still ahd horses on strength then, because they ate them before all was said and done). The troopers had rifle and pistol issued.

 

[The Wizard]

According a 1944 dated TO&E for a Mountain Reconnaissance Troop (Horse)(this troop was part of the 10th Mountain Division and is noted for making the last horse mounted cavalry charge in the U. S. Army) NO pistols/revolvers were authorized. Members of the troop were authorized M1 rifles and carbines. M2 Carbine could be substituted by order of the theater commander.

 

[BetaDeltaKA]

Thank you, gents