About this Unit
The 3rd Battalion, 320th Field Artillery Regiment (3-320th FA) traces its lineage to the 320th Field Artillery, which was constituted in August 1917 and assigned to the 82nd Division during World War I. The battalion has seen action in major conflicts including World War II, where it supported airborne operations in Europe, and later in Vietnam and the Global War on Terrorism as part of the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault). Noted for its adaptability and firepower, 3-320th FA has provided critical artillery support in both conventional and asymmetric warfare environments. Throughout its history, the battalion has earned numerous campaign streamers and unit commendations for its distinguished service.
Historical Facts
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World War I Origins: The 3rd Battalion, 320th Field Artillery Regiment (3/320th FA) traces its lineage to the original 320th Field Artillery, which was constituted in the National Army on August 5, 1917, and assigned to the 82nd Division.
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Combat Debut in France: The 320th FA fought in the St. Mihiel and Meuse-Argonne offensives in World War I, providing critical artillery support for American advances.
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World War II Paratroopers: Reorganized as the 320th Glider Field Artillery Battalion, the unit became part of the famed 82nd Airborne Division, supporting airborne operations in Sicily, Normandy, and the Rhineland.
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Normandy Landings: On D-Day, elements of the 320th GFAB landed in Normandy via glider, providing vital artillery support to paratroopers behind enemy lines.
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Operation Market Garden: The battalion participated in the largest airborne operation of WWII, crossing into the Netherlands to support the 82nd Airborne’s mission to capture key bridges.
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Reorganization for the Cold War: After WWII, the unit underwent several reorganizations, at one point being designated as the 3rd Battalion, 320th Artillery, and later as the 3rd Battalion, 320th Field Artillery.
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Vietnam Service: The 3/320th FA served with distinction as part of the 101st Airborne Division (Airmobile) in Vietnam, providing artillery fire support during numerous operations.
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Persian Gulf War: Deployed as part of Operation Desert Storm in 1990-1991, the battalion provided artillery support for the 101st Airborne Division’s deep attack into Iraq.
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Global War on Terror: The 3/320th FA deployed multiple times in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, supporting both conventional and counterinsurgency operations.
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Distinguished Honors: The unit has received numerous decorations, including Presidential Unit Citations, French Croix de Guerre, and the Belgian Fourragere, reflecting its storied combat history.
