About this Unit
The 2nd Battalion, 320th Field Artillery Regiment (2-320th FA) traces its origins to World War I, when it was constituted in 1917 as part of the 82nd Division. The unit saw combat in major campaigns in France during World War I and was reactivated for service in World War II, supporting airborne operations in Sicily, Normandy, and beyond. Throughout the Cold War, the battalion was assigned to the 101st Airborne Division, participating in Vietnam and later operations including Desert Storm and Operation Iraqi Freedom. Renowned for its rapid deployment capabilities and distinguished service, the 2-320th FA has earned multiple unit commendations and continues to uphold its legacy as a premier field artillery battalion.
Historical Facts
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World War I Origins: The 2nd Battalion, 320th Field Artillery Regiment (2/320th FA) was originally constituted in August 1917 as part of the 82nd Division during World War I, participating in major campaigns in France.
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Normandy Airborne Artillery: The unit made a historic airborne artillery drop during Operation Neptune (D-Day) on June 6, 1944, supporting the 101st Airborne Division.
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Operation Market Garden: 2/320th FA provided crucial artillery support during the ambitious but ill-fated Operation Market Garden in the Netherlands in September 1944.
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Bastogne Defense: The battalion played a key artillery role in the defense of Bastogne during the Battle of the Bulge, firing relentlessly despite being surrounded by German forces.
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Multiple Reorganizations: Post-WWII, the 2/320th FA underwent several reorganizations and activations/inactivations, reflecting the changing needs and structure of the U.S. Army.
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Vietnam War Service: The unit deployed to Vietnam as part of the 101st Airborne Division, providing fire support in major operations such as Operation Texas Star and Operation Lam Son 719.
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Desert Storm Participation: Elements of the battalion served in Operation Desert Storm in 1991, supporting coalition forces in the liberation of Kuwait.
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Global War on Terror: 2/320th FA deployed multiple times to Iraq and Afghanistan in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, adapting to new counterinsurgency roles.
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Airborne Artillery Innovations: The unit has long been a pioneer in "airborne artillery" tactics, specializing in delivering howitzers and fire support via parachute and helicopter insertion.
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Honors and Decorations: The 2/320th FA has received numerous unit citations, including Presidential Unit Citations, French Croix de Guerre, and Belgian Fourragere for its distinguished combat service.
