About this Unit
The 1st Battalion, 321st Field Artillery Regiment (1-321 FAR) has a distinguished history as part of the 4th Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division. Originally constituted in 1917, the unit has participated in major conflicts, including World War I, World War II, and the Global War on Terrorism. As the direct support artillery battalion for the 4th BCT, 82nd Airborne, 1-321 FAR provided airborne artillery firepower and support during deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. The battalion was inactivated in 2014 as part of the Army's force restructuring but remains a storied element of the 82nd Airborne Division's legacy.
Historical Facts
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Unit Designation: The 1st Battalion, 321st Field Artillery Regiment (1-321 FAR) has historically been part of the 4th Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, known for its airborne field artillery role.
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World War I Origins: The 321st Field Artillery Regiment was originally constituted in the National Army in 1917 and served in France during World War I as part of the 82nd Division.
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Airborne Transition: The 321st became an airborne artillery unit during World War II, training extensively to support parachute and glider infantry operations.
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Normandy Airborne Assault: Elements of the 321st participated in the D-Day invasion, supporting the 82nd Airborne Division during the Normandy landings in June 1944.
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Global War on Terror: The 1-321 FAR deployed multiple times in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, providing crucial fire support to ground forces.
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“Guns of Glory” Nickname: The battalion earned the nickname “Guns of Glory” for its distinguished record and accurate, timely fire missions during combat operations.
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Unique Airborne Artillery Tactics: 1-321 FAR is trained to airdrop 105mm howitzers and crew, allowing rapid deployment and support for airborne infantry.
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Decorations and Honors: The battalion has received numerous unit commendations, including Presidential Unit Citations and the French Croix de Guerre, for its bravery and service.
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Deactivation and Reactivation: The 1-321 FAR has seen periods of inactivation and reactivation, most recently being reflagged or inactivated as part of Army force restructuring in the 2010s.
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Legacy of Service: Soldiers from 1-321 FAR have consistently exemplified the 82nd Airborne’s motto, “All American,” contributing to the division’s storied legacy from the World Wars through modern conflicts.
