About this Unit
The 1st Battalion, 43rd Air Defense Artillery Regiment (1-43rd ADA) traces its lineage back to the original 43rd Coast Artillery Regiment, constituted in 1918. Over the decades, the unit has participated in numerous key conflicts, including World War II, where it provided critical air defense in the Pacific Theater. Reactivated and redesignated multiple times, 1-43rd ADA has operated various air defense systems, most notably the PATRIOT missile system, providing protection against aerial and missile threats. Today, 1-43rd ADA continues to play a vital role in integrated air and missile defense, supporting U.S. and allied forces in regions such as the Middle East and the Indo-Pacific.
Historical Facts
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Origins in World War I: The 1st Battalion, 43rd Air Defense Artillery (1-43 ADA) traces its lineage back to the 43rd Artillery, Coast Artillery Corps, constituted on 29 July 1918 at Fort Preble, Maine.
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Redesignations Over Time: The unit has undergone several redesignations, including service as the 43rd Coast Artillery and later as the 43rd Artillery Regiment, before becoming an Air Defense Artillery unit.
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World War II Service: The 43rd CA (AA) Battalion served in the Pacific Theater, earning campaign participation credit for operations in the Aleutian Islands and the Philippines.
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Vietnam War Deployments: Elements of the unit served in Vietnam, providing critical air defense support and earning campaign credit for multiple phases of the conflict.
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Transition to Patriot Missiles: In the late 20th century, 1-43 ADA transitioned to the advanced Patriot missile system, becoming a key component of U.S. air and missile defense.
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Gulf War Operations: 1-43 ADA played a significant role during Operation Desert Storm, where its Patriot batteries successfully intercepted Iraqi Scud missiles, protecting coalition forces and civilians.
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Stationed in South Korea: The battalion has been forward-deployed in South Korea, providing a crucial defensive shield against potential missile threats from North Korea.
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Distinctive Unit Insignia: Their insignia features a red shield with a gold missile, symbolizing their air defense mission, and the motto "Quisquam Usquam" (Anytime, Anywhere).
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Support for Homeland Defense: In addition to overseas deployments, 1-43 ADA has supported homeland defense operations, including post-9/11 contingency missions.
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Modern Deployments: The unit remains one of the Army’s most forward-deployed and combat-ready Patriot battalions, with recent missions in the Middle East, supporting operations in defense of U.S. and allied interests.
