About this Unit
The 2nd Battalion, 31st Field Artillery Regiment (2/31st Artillery) was originally constituted in the Regular Army in 1918 and has a distinguished history of service. During World War II, the unit served in the Aleutian Islands campaign, earning a campaign streamer for its participation. In the Vietnam War, the 2/31st Artillery was assigned to the 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile), providing critical fire support in numerous major operations throughout the conflict. Over the decades, the battalion has adapted to changing warfare requirements and continues to uphold its proud artillery heritage within the U.S. Army.
Historical Facts
•
Formation and Early History: The 2nd Battalion, 31st Field Artillery Regiment (2/31st FA) was originally constituted in the Regular Army as Battery B, 31st Field Artillery in 1918, during World War I.
•
World War II Service: The unit was assigned to the 7th Infantry Division and saw action in the Aleutian Islands campaign, participating in the battle to reclaim Attu Island from Japanese forces in 1943.
•
Korean War Campaigns: The 2/31st Field Artillery played a significant role in key Korean War operations, including the Inchon Landing, liberation of Seoul, and the Chosin Reservoir campaign.
•
Vietnam War Deployments: The battalion was deployed to Vietnam in 1967, providing fire support in the Central Highlands and participating in major operations such as the Tet Offensive.
•
Nickname “Proud Americans”: The 2/31st FA earned the nickname “Proud Americans,” a moniker that continues to be used by its members today.
•
Decorations and Honors: The unit has received numerous decorations, including Presidential Unit Citations, Meritorious Unit Commendations, and foreign awards from allied governments for its valor in combat.
•
Cold War Era: During the Cold War, the 2/31st FA was stationed in South Korea as part of the United States’ commitment to defend the Korean Peninsula.
•
Modernization: Over the decades, the battalion has transitioned through various artillery systems, from the M114 howitzer and M109 self-propelled howitzer to the modern M777 and M119 howitzers.
•
Current Mission: Today, 2/31st FA is part of the U.S. Army’s Field Artillery Training Command at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, responsible for training new artillery soldiers and officers.
•
Motto and Insignia: The unit’s motto is “Proud and Able.” Its distinctive unit insignia features a red shield with a gold field gun, symbolizing its artillery heritage and proud service.
