[1] It was one of seven National Guard armored cavalry regiments authorized in 1949 to provide corps-level reconnaissance and security capabilities in event of mobilization.

[2][3] From inception, the regiment was administratively supervised by the 1st Provisional Brigade, created to serve as an intermediate headquarters for non-divisional and unbrigaded units of the California National Guard.

[6] The organization and Federal recognition of new units followed, beginning with the Assault Gun Company of the 1st Battalion at Holtville on 15 October.

[11] The regiment was brought up to full strength by the organization and Federal recognition of its 3rd Battalion on 26 January 1951, headquartered at Van Nuys.

[13] The regiment participated in 1951 summer field training between 17 June and 1 July at Camp Cooke and Hunter Liggett Military Reservation along with the 49th Infantry Division.

The regiment participated in 1952 summer field training between 17 and 31 August at Hunter Liggett, alongside smaller nondivisional units.

From 16 to 30 August of that year, the regiment participated in what was to be its last summer field training, held at Hunter Liggett with the 40th Infantry Division (NGUS).

The regimental coat of arms was the shield of its distinctive unit insignia with the crest of the California Army National Guard above it.