in november 1940 the household cavalry composite regiment became the 1st household cavalry motor battalion. the 1st household cavalry motor battalion arrived at haifa on 22 february 1941 under a new commanding officer, lieutenant-colonel reginald heyworth. the final decision to become mechanized was not taken until later that month. in the judean desert they were ordered to end their horse cavalry days: horses older than 15 years were put down. in march 1941, the 1st household cavalry motor battalion was redesignated as the 1st household cavalry regiment.