1st 62ADA

• Formation and Designation: The 1st Battalion, 62nd Air Defense Artillery Regiment (1-62 ADA) traces its lineage to the 62nd Coast Artillery Regiment, first activated in the early 20th century to provide coastal defense for the United States. • World War II Service: The regiment saw action during World War II, providing anti-aircraft protection for Allied forces in the European Theater, including the defense of critical supply ports. • Cold War Mission: During the Cold War, 1-62 ADA was reconfigured and stationed in Europe, tasked with defending NATO airspace against potential Soviet air attacks. • Transition to Missile Systems: The battalion transitioned from traditional anti-aircraft guns to more advanced missile systems, such as the HAWK and later the Patriot missile systems. • Operation Desert Storm: Elements of the 1-62 ADA participated in Operation Desert Storm (1991), providing critical air defense coverage for coalition forces against Iraqi Scud missile attacks. • Unit Motto: The unit motto is "First to Fire," reflecting their readiness and forward position in air defense operations. • Distinctive Unit Insignia: The battalion's insignia features a winged missile and a red shield, symbolizing its air defense mission and artillery heritage. • Multi-National Exercises: 1-62 ADA has participated in numerous joint exercises with NATO allies, enhancing interoperability and demonstrating the U.S. commitment to collective defense. • Humanitarian Missions: In addition to combat roles, the unit has supported humanitarian operations, such as disaster response and protection of civilian populations from aerial threats. • Modern Deployments: Today, 1-62 ADA continues to play a vital role in global security, deploying to various theaters to provide advanced air and missile defense capabilities for U.S. and allied forces.