About this Unit
The 3rd Battalion, 319th Field Artillery Regiment (3-319th FAR) traces its lineage to the original 319th Field Artillery, which was constituted in 1917 and served with distinction in World War I. Reactivated for World War II, the unit participated in key campaigns including Sicily, Normandy, and the Rhineland as part of the 82nd Airborne Division. During the Vietnam War, 3/319th FAR provided vital fire support for airborne and infantry operations, earning numerous campaign streamers and commendations. In recent decades, the battalion has deployed in support of operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, continuing its tradition of excellence as a premier airborne artillery unit.
Historical Facts
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World War I Formation: The 3rd Battalion, 319th Field Artillery Regiment (3/319th FAR) traces its roots to World War I, when the 319th Field Artillery was constituted in the National Army in 1917 as part of the 82nd Division.
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Airborne Artillery Pioneers: The 319th was redesignated as a glider field artillery battalion during World War II, making it one of the first U.S. artillery units to employ glider-borne operations.
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Normandy Invasion: Elements of the 319th (including what would become the 3rd Battalion) participated in the D-Day airborne assault on Normandy, providing critical artillery support to the 82nd Airborne Division.
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Operation Market Garden: The battalion played a key role in the largest airborne operation of World War II, supporting paratroopers in the Netherlands during Operation Market Garden in September 1944.
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Battle of the Bulge: The 319th F.A. supported 82nd Airborne troops during the famous defense and counterattack during the Battle of the Bulge in December 1944.
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Vietnam War Service: The 3/319th deployed to Vietnam in 1965, supporting the 173rd Airborne Brigade and earning numerous campaign streamers and several Presidential Unit Citations for its actions.
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‘Gun Devils’ Nickname: The battalion is known by the nickname “Gun Devils," symbolizing their fierce and rapid delivery of artillery fire in support of airborne operations.
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First U.S. Artillery Unit in Vietnam: The 3/319th was one of the first U.S. artillery units to fire in support of American combat operations in Vietnam, marking a historic moment in the conflict.
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Modern Deployments: In recent years, 3/319th FAR has deployed in support of Operations Enduring Freedom (Afghanistan) and Iraqi Freedom, exemplifying its continued relevance and adaptability.
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Distinguished Unit Awards: The battalion and its parent regiment hold numerous unit awards, including Presidential Unit Citations, Valorous Unit Awards, and French and Dutch decorations for their valor and effectiveness in combat.
