2:60th ADA Battalion (CV)

• Lineage Rooted in WWII: The 2nd Battalion, 60th Air Defense Artillery (2/60th ADA) traces its origins to World War II, originally constituted as a coastal artillery unit tasked with protecting critical infrastructure and troop formations from aerial attack. • Conversion to Air Defense: After WWII, the unit transitioned from coastal artillery to air defense artillery, reflecting the shifting threats from naval to aerial attacks during the Cold War era. • Vietnam War Service: Elements of the 60th ADA served in the Vietnam War, where air defense units provided critical protection for airfields and key installations from enemy aircraft and missile attacks. • “CV” Designation: The “(CV)” in its title stands for “Composite, Vehicle-mounted,” indicating a mixed array of missile and gun systems mounted on mobile platforms, enabling rapid deployment and flexible defense. • Nike Missile Era: During the 1960s and 1970s, the 2/60th ADA was equipped with the Nike missile system, one of the first generation of U.S. surface-to-air defense missiles designed to intercept high-speed jet aircraft. • Strategic Location Assignments: The battalion has historically been stationed at several key military installations, including Fort Bliss, Texas, and various NATO bases in Europe, underscoring its importance in continental and overseas defense. • Cold War Missions: Throughout the Cold War, the 2/60th ADA played a vital role in the North American and European defense network, standing on constant alert against potential Soviet bomber and missile attacks. • Integration with Allied Forces: The unit frequently participated in joint exercises with NATO allies, honing interoperability and reinforcing collective air defense strategies. • Modernization: Over the decades, the battalion has been equipped with a range of advancing technologies, from early anti-aircraft guns to guided missile systems, reflecting the evolution of air defense doctrine. • Heraldry and Legacy: The 2/60th ADA’s insignia and motto reflect its vigilance and defensive prowess, and its soldiers have earned numerous commendations for their service in diverse operations worldwide.