1:2nd FA Baumholder Germany

• Origins: The 1st Battalion, 2nd Field Artillery Regiment (1-2nd FA) traces its roots back to 1907, making it one of the oldest continuous artillery units in the U.S. Army. • Stationed in Baumholder: The unit was stationed in Baumholder, Germany, primarily during the Cold War as part of the U.S. Army’s forward presence in Europe. • Cold War Role: 1/2nd FA played a crucial role in NATO's defense strategy, ready to respond to any potential Warsaw Pact aggression along the Iron Curtain. • Nickname: The 2nd Field Artillery Regiment is known by the nickname “The Big Deuce.” • Artillery Pieces: While in Baumholder, the battalion operated various artillery systems, including the M109 self-propelled howitzer. • Community Relations: Soldiers from 1-2nd FA were actively involved in German-American friendship activities, fostering strong local ties in Baumholder. • Operation REFORGER: The battalion regularly participated in REFORGER (Return of Forces to Germany) exercises, showcasing rapid U.S. military deployment capabilities. • Unit Crest: The unit’s distinctive insignia contains a pair of crossed cannons and the motto “The Second First,” symbolizing its long history and traditions. • Post-Cold War Changes: Following the end of the Cold War, the unit experienced realignment, inactivations, and reactivations as part of broader U.S. Army restructuring in Europe. • Decorations: Over its history, the 1-2nd FA has earned multiple campaign streamers and commendations, reflecting its service in both world wars, the Cold War, and beyond.