1st how bn 22d arty 4th arm div

• Origins: The 1st Howitzer Battalion, 22nd Artillery (1st How Bn, 22d Arty) traces its lineage to the 22nd Field Artillery Regiment, which was constituted in 1916 and served in various capacities through both World Wars. • World War II Service: The 22nd Field Artillery served in multiple campaigns across Europe with the 4th Armored Division, notably providing crucial fire support during the breakout from Normandy and the Battle of the Bulge. • Reorganization: In 1957, as part of the Army’s pentomic reorganization, the 1st Howitzer Battalion, 22d Artillery was activated and assigned to the 4th Armored Division in West Germany during the Cold War. • Cold War Readiness: Stationed in Germany, the unit was a key element of NATO's deterrence against potential Warsaw Pact aggression, participating in large-scale maneuvers and live-fire exercises. • Nickname: Members of the 22d Artillery were often referred to as “The Big Deuce,” a moniker reflecting both their unit number and their reputation for delivering powerful artillery support. • Equipment: In its Cold War configuration, the battalion was equipped with M109 self-propelled 155mm howitzers, which allowed high mobility and rapid fire support for armored units. • Decorations: The 22nd Artillery received multiple unit citations and awards for its service, including recognition for actions in WWII and its exemplary performance during peacetime operations in Europe. • Vietnam War Service: While the 1st How Bn, 22d Arty itself did not deploy to Vietnam, other battalions of the 22nd Artillery Regiment served with distinction in Southeast Asia. • Deactivation: The battalion was inactivated in the early 1970s as part of post-Vietnam drawdowns and restructuring of Army divisions stationed in Europe. • Legacy: Former members of the 1st How Bn, 22d Arty have maintained strong ties through veterans’ associations, preserving the unit’s history and camaraderie through reunions and remembrance activities.