air cavalry

American  

noun

1. an infantry or reconnaissance unit transported by air to combat areas.

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Etymology

Origin of air cavalry

An Americanism dating back to 1915–20

Example Sentences

John C. Bahnsen Jr., a retired Army brigadier general who was awarded 19 decorations for valor during the Vietnam War, mostly for his swashbuckling, hands-on command of an air cavalry troop that saw heavy combat, died on Feb. 21 at his home in Rochelle, Ga. He was 89.

From New York Times

His father also served in the First Air Cavalry Division as an infantryman in the Vietnam War.

From New York Times

He served two tours in Vietnam - first in the infantry, then in the air cavalry.

From Washington Times

He served two tours in Vietnam — first in the infantry, then in the air cavalry.

From Seattle Times

One of the most compelling stories in “The Fighters” is that of Chief Warrant Officer Michael Slebodnik of the Air Cavalry, pilot of a Kiowa Warrior helicopter who flew missions in both Iraq and Afghanistan.

From Washington Post