The Nevada Army National Guard is set to undergo a significant transformation, as it transitions into a mobile infantry battalion, a strategic decision aligned with the U.S. Army’s overarching restructuring efforts. This adjustment is part of the Army Transformation Initiative, which aims to streamline the force by reducing the number of Armored Brigade Combat Teams from 15 to 13 while simultaneously cutting the National Guard’s components from five to two.
The change specifically impacts the 116th Cavalry Brigade Combat Team, which comprises multiple states, including Nevada’s 1st Squadron, 221st Cavalry. Officials have indicated that the restructuring will allow for the addition of approximately 300 personnel, although it is not anticipated to drastically alter the organization of the unit. The decision also reflects the strong recruiting capabilities at the Clark County Armory in Las Vegas, which serves as the brigade’s headquarters.
Chief Warrant Officer 4 David Bouse, the force integration and readiness officer for the Nevada Army National Guard, noted, “This means we are looking at gaining a battalion along with one combat logistics company.” He emphasized that this restructuring keeps Nevada relevant in large-scale combat operations, particularly in the U.S. Indo-Pacific area of responsibility.
As part of this transition, the Nevada Army National Guard will replace its traditional armored cavalry squadron tanks with infantry squad vehicles and associated gear designed for mobile infantry missions. The new nine-passenger vehicles, modeled after the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 under a contract with General Motors, will allow for rapid transport via CH-47 Chinook helicopters. This shift prioritizes mobility and airlift capabilities over the traditional heavy armor, thereby enhancing the unit’s operational effectiveness in dispersed and fast-moving combat scenarios.
This move toward modernization reflects a broader trend in the U.S. Army, focusing on the necessity for lighter, more agile infantry formations capable of adapting to the evolving demands of modern warfare. Command Sgt. Maj. Christopher Prosser, the senior enlisted leader of 1st Army, addressed attendees in Reno, stating, “It’s not about the equipment; it’s not about the platform; it’s about the concept and structure.”
The Nevada Army National Guard has a two-year window to retrain and reclassify soldiers for their new infantry roles. Additionally, there are plans to retain the unit’s historical identity throughout this process, which includes preserving its “Wild Horse” call sign and cavalry designation, ensuring that Nevada remains an integral part of the restructured brigade.
