About this Unit
The 1st Battalion, 8th Field Artillery Regiment (1/8th FA) was originally constituted on July 1, 1916, in the Regular Army as Battery A, 8th Field Artillery. It was organized in July 1916 at Fort Bliss, Texas, and later assigned to the 7th Division during World War I, where it provided crucial fire support. The unit has seen extensive service in several conflicts, including World War II, the Korean War, and Operation Iraqi Freedom, adapting to various artillery systems over its history. Today, 1/8th FA continues its legacy of excellence, providing field artillery support as part of the modern U.S. Army.
Historical Facts
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Origins: The 1st Battalion, 8th Field Artillery Regiment (1-8 FA) was originally constituted on July 1, 1916, in the Regular Army as Battery A, 8th Field Artillery.
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World War I Service: The unit first saw combat in France during World War I as part of the 7th Division, providing crucial artillery support in the Lorraine campaign.
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Hawaiian Assignment: In the 1920s, the 8th Field Artillery was stationed in Hawaii, becoming part of the famed Hawaiian Division, and played a key role in the defense of Pearl Harbor during World War II.
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Pearl Harbor Attack: Elements of the 1-8 FA were present during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, and responded with anti-aircraft and defensive fire.
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Korean War: The battalion participated in nearly every major campaign during the Korean War, including the defense of the Pusan Perimeter, the Inchon Landing, and the advance into North Korea.
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Vietnam War: The 1-8 FA served with distinction in Vietnam, supporting the 25th Infantry Division with fire missions in some of the most intense combat zones, such as Cu Chi and Tay Ninh.
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Cold War Deployments: During the Cold War, the unit was stationed in Germany as part of NATO forces, ready to deter Soviet aggression.
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Modernization: In the 1980s and 1990s, the battalion transitioned from older artillery systems to the modern M109 self-propelled howitzer, significantly increasing its firepower and mobility.
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Operation Iraqi Freedom: 1-8 FA deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, providing artillery fire, security, and training to Iraqi forces.
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Unit Motto and Symbolism: The battalion's motto is "Automatic," reflecting its tradition of rapid and reliable artillery support. Its distinctive unit insignia features a red shield with a gold cannon and a white eight-pointed star, representing its numerical designation and artillery heritage.
