About this Unit
The 17th Artillery Regiment, originally constituted in 1916 as part of the Regular Army, has a distinguished history of service in major conflicts. The unit saw its first significant action during World War I, providing critical artillery support on the Western Front. During World War II, the 17th Artillery participated in key campaigns across the European Theater, including Normandy and the Rhineland. In later years, elements of the regiment served with distinction in Korea, Vietnam, and more recent operations, continuing its tradition of excellence in fire support and battlefield effectiveness.
Historical Facts
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Origins in World War I: The 17th Field Artillery Regiment was constituted on July 1, 1916, in the Regular Army and organized at Camp Robinson, Wisconsin, in June 1917.
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World War I Service: The regiment served with distinction in France during World War I, participating in campaigns such as the Aisne-Marne, St. Mihiel, Meuse-Argonne, and Lorraine.
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Distinctive Unit Insignia: The regiment’s insignia features a winged centaur holding a bow and arrow, symbolizing speed, power, and precision in artillery fire.
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World War II Deployments: The 17th Field Artillery Regiment was active in the North African and European theaters, including campaigns in Tunisia, Sicily, Normandy, and the Rhineland.
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Korean War Actions: The 17th Artillery played a significant role in the Korean War, supporting major operations such as the Pusan Perimeter and the drive to the Yalu River.
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Vietnam War Service: The 17th Artillery provided fire support in Vietnam, participating in numerous operations and earning several unit commendations for valor and effectiveness.
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Cold War Deployments: Elements of the 17th Artillery were stationed in West Germany during the Cold War, ready to respond to any Warsaw Pact aggression.
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Modernization: Over the decades, the unit transitioned through a variety of artillery systems, from World War I-era howitzers to modern self-propelled guns.
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Notable Members: The regiment has had several distinguished alumni, including Medal of Honor recipients and future general officers.
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Current Status: Today, the lineage of the 17th Field Artillery is perpetuated by several battalions, such as the 2nd Battalion, 17th Field Artillery, which continues to serve in the U.S. Army’s active forces.
