2:20 FA

Relive and share the memories of your service-time with your brothers and sisters in arms today. VetFriends.com can help you reconnect.

Did you proudly serve in the 2:20 FA?

Are you looking for someone who is or was in the 2:20 FA?

Do you have 2:20 FA photos you'd like to share?

Then join a community with your brothers and sisters of the 2:20 FA.

Branch

U.S. Army

Members

About 2:20 FA

The 2nd Battalion, 20th Field Artillery Regiment (2/20 FA), known as the "Deep Strike Battalion," was constituted in 1916 and has served in multiple major conflicts, including World War I, World War II, and the Vietnam War. During the Vietnam War, 2/20 FA was renowned for its use of the M42 "Duster" and later transitioned to providing aerial rocket artillery support, notably flying UH-1B and AH-1G helicopters, earning a reputation for innovation and effectiveness. In recent decades, the battalion has been equipped with Multiple Launch Rocket Systems (MLRS), supporting operations in the Gulf War, Iraq, and Afghanistan. Today, 2/20 FA is a key part of the 75th Field Artillery Brigade at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, providing precision rocket and missile fires in support of U.S. Army operations.

Unit Members

CHRIS CALLAHAN

U.S. Army

2:20 FAView Profile

Andrew Anderson

U.S. Army

2:20 FAView Profile

Photos

Boot Camp

Company C 1st Bn. 38th Inf. Regt. • U.S. Army • 1989

1980

101st airborne division • U.S. Army

U.S. Army

New uniform for wedding

82nd Airborne • U.S. Army • 2018

About 2:20 FA

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Unit Designation: The 2nd Battalion, 20th Field Artillery Regiment (2/20 FA) is a unit of the United States Army specializing in field artillery. • Vietnam War Service: 2/20 FA is best known for its service in the Vietnam War, where it was equipped with the M102 105mm howitzer and played a vital role in providing fire support for infantry operations. • Nickname "Blue Max": During the Vietnam War, the unit adopted the nickname "Blue Max," inspired by the famous German military decoration, Pour le Mérite, and made famous by the 1966 film The Blue Max. • Aerial Artillery: 2/20 FA was unique during Vietnam for being an aerial artillery unit, using helicopter-lifted howitzers to provide rapid and mobile fire support across the battlefield. • Operation Pegasus: The battalion played a key role in Operation Pegasus in 1968, helping relieve the besieged Marines at Khe Sanh by delivering crucial artillery support. • Distinctive Unit Insignia: The unit’s insignia features a winged artillery shell, representing its airborne artillery capabilities and rapid mobility. • Modern Era: In more recent years, 2/20 FA has served as a Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) battalion, providing the U.S. Army with advanced rocket artillery support. • Gulf War Participation: The battalion participated in Operation Desert Storm, employing MLRS to deliver powerful and precise firepower during the conflict. • Current Assignment: 2/20 FA is currently assigned to the 41st Field Artillery Brigade at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, where it continues its legacy of excellence in artillery operations. • Unit Motto: The battalion’s motto is “Duty Not Reward,” reflecting its commitment to mission accomplishment and selfless service.