About this Unit
The 1st Battalion, 79th Field Artillery Regiment traces its origins to its constitution in 1916 as part of the U.S. Army. The unit has served with distinction in multiple conflicts, including World War II, where it provided crucial fire support in the European Theater. Over the decades, the battalion has undergone several activations and inactivations, adapting to the evolving needs of the Army. In recent years, the 1-79th Field Artillery has been primarily assigned as a training battalion at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, responsible for preparing new generations of artillery Soldiers.
Historical Facts
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Formation in World War I: The 79th Field Artillery Regiment was constituted on 1 July 1916 in the Regular Army and organized at Fort Riley, Kansas, marking its origins in the buildup to U.S. involvement in World War I.
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World War II Service: The regiment saw extensive combat during World War II, supporting Allied advances across France and Germany and earning campaign participation credits including Normandy, Northern France, Rhineland, Ardennes-Alsace, and Central Europe.
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Assignment to 1st Cavalry Division: The 79th Field Artillery was assigned to the famed 1st Cavalry Division, participating in mechanized operations and supporting cavalry units with artillery fire during the division’s early years.
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Deployment in Vietnam: The battalion was deployed to Vietnam, where it provided critical fire support in various operations, including search-and-destroy missions and defensive firebases throughout the conflict.
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Distinctive Unit Insignia: The battalion’s insignia includes a red shield with a gold lion, symbolizing courage and valor, and reflects its artillery heritage and combat service.
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Current Role at Fort Sill: Today, the 1st Battalion, 79th Field Artillery Regiment is a basic combat training unit at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, where it transforms thousands of civilians into soldiers each year.
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Nickname "Steel Dragons": The battalion is known as the “Steel Dragons,” a moniker reflecting strength, resilience, and the fierce spirit of its soldiers.
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Participation in Operation Desert Storm: Elements of the unit were activated and deployed in support roles during the Gulf War, contributing to the swift coalition victory.
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Medal of Honor Connection: Private First Class Charles Barger, who served with the regiment in World War I, was awarded the Medal of Honor for extraordinary heroism near Bois-de-Bantheville, France.
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Training Innovations: The battalion is known for pioneering new training methods, including integrating modern technology and simulation into basic combat training to better prepare new soldiers for contemporary warfare.
