Stockton, commander of the 3rd Battalion, 17th Cavalry Regiment, is given credit for establishing the tradition of wearing the Cavalry Stetson, much to the chagrin of the Division command group. They felt a need to return to the traditions of the Cavalry so long forgotten. The 11th Air Assault Division cavalry scout pilots were looking to distinguish themselves from other troops when they adopted the Model 1876 campaign hat for wear. The tradition of the “Cav Hat” began in the early days before the Vietnam War. Stockton Commander, 1-9th Cavalry wearing Stetson and Spurs 1965