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Companion Cavalry

By N.S. Gill, About.com

Definition: In Alexander the Great's Macedonian army, the Companion Cavalry was a unit of 8 squadrons (225 horsemen each). The Companion Cavalry, under the lead of Philotas, was important at such events as the Battle at the Granicus, in June 334; during the siege of Tyre; at the Battle at Gaugamela, in October 331; at the Battle at the Persian Gate; and in the pursuit of King Darius of Persia. In December 330 B.C., Philotas was accused of treason and was executed. An inexperienced Hephaestion and Clitus then split Philotas' command of the Companion Cavalry.
Also Known As: Hetairoi
Examples: The Companion Cavalry were called Hetairoi, the Greek term for companions.

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