2:19th Artillery, 1st Cavalry Division

• Vietnam War Service: The 2nd Battalion, 19th Artillery (2/19th FA) was a key artillery unit within the 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile) during the Vietnam War, providing critical fire support for infantry operations from 1965 to 1971. • Ia Drang Valley: 2/19th Artillery played a vital role in the Battle of Ia Drang (1965), the first major engagement between U.S. and North Vietnamese troops, delivering decisive artillery barrages that helped save embattled cavalry units at Landing Zones X-Ray and Albany. • Helicopter Mobility: As part of the “Airmobile” division, 2/19th’s howitzers were frequently airlifted by helicopters, allowing the unit to rapidly deploy and support troops in diverse and challenging terrain. • Fire Support Bases: The battalion established and defended numerous fire support bases (FSBs) across South Vietnam, often operating in isolated and dangerous environments under threat of enemy assault. • Tet Offensive (1968): During the Tet Offensive, 2/19th Artillery provided continuous fire support during heavy fighting, helping repel attacks on key locations like Hue and Khe Sanh. • Motto - "Per Aspera Ad Astra": The battalion’s motto, Latin for “Through Hardships to the Stars,” reflects its commitment to mission accomplishment despite adversity. • Decorations: 2/19th Artillery earned multiple unit commendations, including the Presidential Unit Citation and the Valorous Unit Award, for exceptional performance in combat. • Casualties and Sacrifice: The battalion suffered significant casualties during its Vietnam service, with many members remembered for their bravery under fire. • Reunion and Legacy: Veterans of 2/19th FA maintain a strong connection through reunions and organizations, preserving the unit’s legacy and honoring those who served. • Continuing Service: After Vietnam, 2/19th Artillery has continued to serve in various forms, adapting to new technologies and missions as part of the modern U.S. Army artillery force.