142nd Signal Battalion

142nd Signal Battalion Homepage Photos Members

Relive and share the memories of your service-time with your brothers and sisters in arms today. VetFriends.com can help you reconnect.

Did you proudly serve in the 142nd Signal Battalion?

Are you looking for someone who is or was in the 142nd Signal Battalion?

Do you have 142nd Signal Battalion photos you'd like to share?

Then join a community with your brothers and sisters of the 142nd Signal Battalion.

Branch

U.S. Army

Members

About 142nd Signal Battalion

The 142nd Signal Battalion was first constituted on 1 May 1940 and activated on 10 February 1941 at Fort McClellan, Alabama. During World War II, the battalion provided vital communications support for armored and infantry units in the European Theater, participating in campaigns such as Normandy, Northern France, Rhineland, Ardennes-Alsace, and Central Europe. In the following decades, the 142nd Signal Battalion supported various operations during the Cold War, and later deployed in support of peacekeeping and combat missions, notably in Bosnia and during Operation Iraqi Freedom. The unit has been recognized for its technical expertise and adaptability, upholding a proud tradition of enabling effective command and control for U.S. Army forces.

Unit Members

James Potter

—

142nd Signal BattalionView Profile

Sharon PRESTON

U.S. Army

142nd Signal BattalionView Profile

Photos

U.S. Army • 1976

U.S. Army • 2004

U.S. Army • 1967

Rean

U.S. Army • 1984

About 142nd Signal Battalion

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• World War II Origins: The 142nd Signal Battalion was constituted on 1 May 1940 in the Regular Army as the 2nd Battalion, 32nd Signal Construction Regiment and activated at Camp Crowder, Missouri. • Multiple Redesignations: The unit underwent several redesignations, including being named the 142nd Signal Operations Battalion in 1944 and finally the 142nd Signal Battalion in 1950. • European Theater Service: During World War II, the battalion served in the European Theater, supporting U.S. Army communications across France, Germany, and Austria. • Normandy Campaign: The battalion participated in the Normandy Campaign, providing vital communication support following D-Day. • Cold War Presence: After World War II, the 142nd Signal Battalion was assigned to various locations in Germany, supporting U.S. Army Europe during the Cold War. • Persian Gulf War: The battalion deployed to Southwest Asia in 1990-91, playing a significant role in Operation Desert Storm by establishing secure communications for coalition forces. • Part of 2nd Armored Division (Forward): For much of its history, the battalion was a key communications asset for the 2nd Armored Division (Forward) stationed in Garlstedt, Germany. • Deactivation in 2007: The 142nd Signal Battalion was inactivated on 15 June 2007 as part of the Army's transformation and realignment in Europe. • Unit Motto: The battalion’s motto was "Finest of the First," reflecting its pride and reputation within the Signal Corps. • Decorations and Honors: The 142nd Signal Battalion was awarded several honors, including campaign participation credits for World War II and Southwest Asia, as well as the Meritorious Unit Commendation.