Moment 47: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders

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DALLAS (CBSDFW.COM) - The Dallas Cowboys earned the monikor America's Team in the 1970s for the "galaxy of stars" on their roster and winning ways on the field. It's only fitting that America's Team is backed by America's Sweethearts.

The 47th greatest moment in Cowboys history is the creation of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders.

The brain child of Cowboys originial president and general manager Tex Schramm, the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders made their debut in 1972. The squad quickly caught the attention of fans attending the games and the TV audiences watching at home.

Watch: Wright Calls Cheerleaders "An Excellent Move"

As the stars of the sidelines, the cheerleaders have become almost as recognizable as the star on the side of the Cowboys helmets.

Auditions are held annually for the right to wear the trademarked Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders uniform. While over 600 ladies compete for a spot, only 36 will actually make the squad.

Watch: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders Are "Iconic"

In addition to cheering on the sidelines, the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders have made annual trips to perform for American troops based overseas. According to the DCC website, the Veterans of Foreign Wars acknowledged the squad's continued commitment with their Hall of Fame Award in 2002. In 2013, the American Legion bestowed upon the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders their highest honor, the Distinguished Service Medal. "Not for what they've done on the football field," the American Legion said, "but for what they've done off the field over 35 years of continuous support for the U.S. military."

They are often imitated, but they are never equaled. They are the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders.