320th Field Artillery

• World War I Origins: The 320th Field Artillery Regiment was first constituted on August 5, 1917, in the National Army and assigned to the 82nd Division (later the 82nd Airborne Division). • First Combat Action: The unit saw its first combat action during World War I in France, participating in the St. Mihiel and Meuse-Argonne offensives. • Airborne Transition: In 1942, the 320th was reorganized and redesignated as the 320th Glider Field Artillery Battalion, becoming an integral part of America’s first airborne artillery units. • D-Day Operations: The 320th participated in the D-Day invasion, landing in Normandy by glider as part of Operation Neptune, providing critical artillery support to airborne infantry. • Presidential Unit Citation: The battalion was awarded the Presidential Unit Citation for its valor and effectiveness during the Normandy campaign. • Battle of the Bulge: The 320th played a vital role in the defense of Bastogne during the Battle of the Bulge, delivering artillery fire under harsh winter conditions. • Cold War Service: After World War II, the unit was reactivated several times and served in various airborne artillery roles during the Cold War, including deployments in Germany. • Vietnam War Deployments: Elements of the 320th served in the Vietnam War, supporting the 101st Airborne Division in major operations such as the Battle of Hamburger Hill. • Modern Operations: The 320th Field Artillery units have participated in recent campaigns, including Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. • Distinctive Unit Insignia: The unit’s insignia features a red shield with a gold lion, symbolizing its courage and heritage, and the motto "Volens et Potens," meaning "Willing and Able."