The Cossacks were a nomadic indigenous people of the steppes of southern Russia. For thousands of years Cossacks were granted special privileges and self autonomy by various rulers in return for military service and Cossacks distinguished themselves as fierce warriors and most notably cavalry. Cossacks were one of the main groups to oppose the Bolsheviks and declared their independence. Cossacks were an integral part of the White Army and fought in the Russian Civil War against the reds. After the communist victory Cossacks were systemically persecuted by the Soviets. With the second world war brewing in Europe the Soviets relaxed their oppression of the Cossacks and even embraced their culture and traditions to persuade Cossacks into joining the Red Army. Thousands of Cossacks fought as part of the Red Army against Germany primarily as cavalry and served with distinction.
This would be a Guerilla squad. I feel Guerilla is suiting because while cavalry warfare was obsolete in this mechanized war cavalry was still used for scouting and even raiding. The Cossacks were infamous for their lightning cavalry raids charging with their horses swords raised high. Their unique weapon could be the Cossack Mosin carbine. This rifle was basically identical to the Dragoon carbine but it was sighted for use without a bayonet, because cavalry troops were expected to fight and shoot ON horseback
