How did George S. Patton first see combat during the Mexican Expedition?

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George S. Patton first experienced combat during the 1916 punitive expedition into Mexico, which was launched after Pancho Villa attacked the border town of Columbus, New Mexico. Serving on the staff of Brig. Gen. John J. Pershing, Patton led a raid that resulted in the deaths of three of Villa’s men.1

This engagement was historically significant as it marked the first time the U.S. Army utilized automobiles in combat.1