Formally organized as the 2nd U.S. Dragoons in 1836, the regiment fought with distinction in the Mexican War (1846-1848), and was later assigned to duty in the western frontier (especially Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas). During this time, some troopers of the regiment (commanded by Earl Van Dorn) along with several Indigenous scouts, engaged about 500 Comanches in the battle of the Wichita Village (October 1, 1858). The 2nd Dragoons were also part of the military force sent to Utah during the Mormon uprising, but an agreement was reached before any significant fighting occurred.