Cavalry Scout

Army Cavalry Scouts (19D) are the eyes and ears of the battlefield. They operate forward of friendly lines to gather intelligence on enemy positions, terrain, and routes — then report that information back to commanders to shape tactical decisions. It is a combat arms MOS that produces veterans with an uncommon combination of independent judgment, rapid decision-making, and detailed reporting skills that few civilian roles can replicate in training alone.

19Ds train at Fort Moore, Georgia through a 22-week OSUT program that integrates basic soldiering with advanced reconnaissance techniques. Scouts learn to conduct route reconnaissance, zone reconnaissance, area reconnaissance, and screen operations — each requiring different planning considerations, reporting formats, and movement techniques. They operate from platforms including the Bradley Fighting Vehicle (M2/M3), M1127 Stryker Reconnaissance Vehicle, and HMMWVs, depending on their unit's configuration. Equipment proficiency includes the LRAS3 (Long-Range Advanced Scout Surveillance System), GPS navigation systems, thermal and night vision optics, and tactical FM/digital radio systems.

What separates Cavalry Scouts from many other combat arms MOSs is the emphasis on independent small-unit operations. A scout section or platoon often operates kilometers ahead of the main body, making real-time decisions about movement, cover, and engagement without direct supervision. This builds a level of initiative and adaptability that translates directly to civilian careers requiring autonomous field work, rapid analysis, and clear communication under pressure. Scouts who served as team leaders or section sergeants add formal leadership experience — managing personnel, vehicles, equipment worth millions, and training programs simultaneously.

For Staying in Law Enforcement, Security, or Intelligence

SkillBridge Programs: Several federal law enforcement agencies and private security companies participate in DOD SkillBridge, allowing scouts to work civilian security or investigative roles during their last 180 days of service. Search the SkillBridge database for current openings in protective services, investigations, and intelligence analysis.

Law Enforcement Training: Many states offer abbreviated or accelerated police academy tracks for military veterans with combat arms backgrounds. Check your target state's POST (Peace Officer Standards and Training) commission for military credit policies. Some departments hire directly and send you to their academy on salary.

Security Clearance Leverage: If you hold an active Secret clearance, that is a marketable credential worth $5,000-15,000+ in processing costs to an employer. ClearanceJobs.com lists positions specifically requiring active clearances. Your clearance stays active for up to 24 months after separation — do not let it lapse during your transition.

Professional Associations: ASIS International is the largest security management association. Membership provides networking, job boards, and access to the CPP certification path. For investigators, the Council of International Investigators connects you with established professionals.

For Careers Outside of Security and Law Enforcement

Project Management: The PMP certification (PMI) is the gold standard for project managers. Senior scouts who planned and executed reconnaissance operations can often document enough project hours to qualify. Cost: ~$555 (PMI member) for the exam. GI Bill covers many prep courses.

Sales Careers: Many former scouts thrive in outside sales and technical sales roles. The ability to read people, adapt to unpredictable situations, and communicate clearly under pressure translates directly. No certifications required — target companies with military hiring programs and leverage your SkillBridge window for interview prep.

Federal Employment (USAJobs): Create your USAJobs profile immediately. Use the "Veterans" filter. Federal resumes are 2 pages max — not the 4-6 page myth you will see online. Key agencies: DHS, DOD civilian, VA, FEMA, and CBP. Build your federal resume here.

Veteran Networking: American Corporate Partners (ACP) provides free mentorship from corporate executives — you get paired with someone in your target industry. ACP is legitimate and completely free for veterans.

Education Benefits: Use the GI Bill Comparison Tool to verify program approval before enrolling. For scouts targeting business, management, or technical careers, certifications often provide faster ROI than a 4-year degree — but evaluate based on your specific career target.