About this Unit
The 1st Battalion, 36th Field Artillery Regiment (1-36 FA) was originally constituted in the Regular Army in 1918 as part of the 12th Division. Reactivated and reorganized multiple times throughout its history, the unit served with distinction during World War II, participating in major campaigns across North Africa, Sicily, Italy, and Central Europe. The battalion provided critical fire support in both World War II and later during the Cold War as part of U.S. Army Europe. Today, the 1-36 FA continues its legacy of excellence, supporting U.S. and allied operations with advanced artillery capabilities.
Historical Facts
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World War II Origins: The 1st Battalion, 36th Field Artillery Regiment (1/36th FA) was first constituted on 1 October 1933 and activated in 1941 at Camp Roberts, California, to prepare for the growing conflict in Europe.
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Normandy Landings: The unit played a key fire support role during the D-Day invasion, landing in France shortly after June 6, 1944, and providing critical artillery support for Allied advances.
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Battle of the Bulge: 1/36th FA participated in the famous Battle of the Bulge, delivering vital artillery barrages that helped halt the German offensive in the Ardennes during the winter of 1944-45.
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Honored with French Croix de Guerre: For its gallantry and distinguished service in France, the battalion was awarded the French Croix de Guerre with Palm, a high military honor.
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Cold War Service in Germany: After WWII, 1/36th FA was stationed in Germany, playing a deterrent role during the Cold War as part of the US Army’s presence in Europe.
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Multiple Re-designations: The unit underwent several re-designations and reorganizations, reflecting changes in US artillery doctrine and the structure of the Army throughout the 20th century.
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Modernization with MLRS: In the 1980s, 1/36th FA became one of the first artillery battalions equipped with the Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS), enhancing its firepower and tactical flexibility.
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Gulf War Deployment: Elements of the battalion deployed to Southwest Asia during Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, providing rocket artillery support during the liberation of Kuwait.
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Distinctive Unit Insignia: The unit’s insignia, featuring a red field with a gold artillery shell and a black lion, symbolizes its strength and European service.
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Legacy of Service: The 1/36th Field Artillery has a proud legacy, with campaign credits spanning World War II, Southwest Asia, and the Global War on Terror, representing decades of dedicated artillery support to US and allied forces.
