138th FA

• Origins in World War I: The 138th Field Artillery (FA) traces its lineage to the 138th Regiment, Kentucky National Guard, which was mustered into federal service during World War I. • Redesignated in WWII: The unit was redesignated as the 138th Field Artillery Battalion and served as part of the 38th Infantry Division during World War II, seeing action in the Pacific Theater. • Bataan and Corregidor Campaigns: Members of the 138th FA supported operations in the Philippines, including the Bataan and Corregidor campaigns, providing artillery support against Japanese forces. • Kentucky Heritage: The unit is part of the Kentucky Army National Guard, reflecting a strong tradition of service from the Commonwealth of Kentucky. • Cold War Service: During the Cold War, the 138th FA was reorganized and equipped with new artillery systems, remaining a key component of the U.S. Army’s reserve artillery force. • Modern Deployments: In recent years, the 138th FA has deployed elements to the Middle East in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. • Multiple Decorations: The unit has received several campaign streamers and citations for its service and valor in both World Wars and recent conflicts. • Community Support: The 138th FA has a close relationship with its local communities in Kentucky, often participating in civic events and providing disaster response assistance. • Artillery Evolution: Over its history, the unit has operated a variety of artillery pieces, from World War I-era guns to modern M109A6 Paladin self-propelled howitzers. • Legacy of Service: The 138th FA’s motto, “Honor, Fidelity, Service,” reflects over a century of commitment to both state and nation, making it one of the oldest and most storied artillery units in the National Guard.