It was created in 1921 from the perceived need for additional cavalry units after World War I, and was numbered in succession of the Regular Army Divisions, which were not all active at its creation. The 61st was officially disbanded on 30 January 1942, although most of its personnel had been reassigned in 1941. The unit was nicknamed "The Foragers".
The Division was composed of personnel from New York and New Jersey. The Division Headquarters was initially located in Rochester, New York, but moved to New York City in 1922.
Organization
In early 1940, the division included the following units:[1]
Brice Pursell Disque commanded the 151st Cavalry Brigade from 6 June 1922, to 14 April 1937. From 15 April 1937, to June 1939, he commanded the 152nd Cavalry Brigade.