2:43rd ADA

• Origin and Lineage: The 2nd Battalion, 43rd Air Defense Artillery Regiment (2-43 ADA) traces its roots back to 1918, originally constituted as Battery B, 43rd Artillery (Coast Artillery Corps) during World War I. • World War II Service: The unit served in the Pacific Theater during World War II, notably participating in campaigns on New Guinea and Luzon, providing anti-aircraft defense. • Cold War Missions: During the Cold War, the 43rd was activated at various times and locations, adapting to the evolving air defense strategies against potential Soviet threats. • Patriot Missile Transition: In the 1980s, 2-43 ADA transitioned from older air defense systems to the modern MIM-104 Patriot missile system, becoming a key component of U.S. Army air defense. • Operation Desert Storm: 2-43 ADA played a vital role in the 1991 Gulf War, deploying to Saudi Arabia and becoming one of the first Patriot battalions to engage and intercept enemy Scud missiles. • Iraq War Deployments: The unit has deployed multiple times in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, providing air and missile defense for U.S. and coalition forces. • Deployment to the Middle East: 2-43 ADA has maintained a regular presence in the Middle East, operating as part of U.S. Central Command’s integrated air and missile defense architecture. • Unit Motto: The battalion’s motto, "Quisquam Usquam" (Anyone, Anywhere), reflects its readiness to deploy globally in defense of U.S. interests. • Distinctive Unit Insignia: The 43rd ADA Regiment’s insignia features a gold missile, symbolizing modern air defense, and a red field, representing artillery heritage. • Recent Recognition: 2-43 ADA has received multiple unit commendations and awards for excellence in air and missile defense operations, including recognition for its performance in joint and multinational exercises.