About this Unit
The 34th Signal Battalion was originally constituted on 11 May 1942 in the Army of the United States and activated at Camp Crowder, Missouri. During World War II, the battalion provided critical communications support throughout the European Theater, participating in campaigns such as Normandy, Northern France, Rhineland, Ardennes-Alsace, and Central Europe. After the war, the unit was inactivated in 1946 but was later reactivated and served in various capacities, supporting U.S. Army operations during the Cold War and into the modern era. The 34th Signal Battalion remains recognized for its excellence in delivering reliable communication networks to enable command and control for military operations.
Historical Facts
• World War II Origins: The 34th Signal Battalion was constituted on 11 May 1942 in the Army of the United States and activated on 27 May 1942 at Camp Crowder, Missouri, playing a key role in WWII communications.
• Normandy Campaign: The battalion landed in France shortly after D-Day, providing vital communications support during the Normandy Campaign, ensuring command and control for advancing Allied forces.
• Battle Honors: The 34th Signal Battalion earned campaign participation credits for Normandy, Northern France, Rhineland, Ardennes-Alsace, and Central Europe during World War II.
• Post-War Deactivation & Reactivation: After WWII, the unit was inactivated in Germany but later reactivated during the Cold War era to meet new communication challenges.
• Cold War Service in Europe: Stationed in Germany, the battalion provided communication support to U.S. Army Europe, playing a key role in NATO exercises and readiness during the tense years of the Cold War.
• Modernization: The 34th Signal Battalion was among the first to transition to digital communications equipment, enhancing the speed and reliability of battlefield communications.
• Distinctive Unit Insignia: The battalion’s insignia symbolizes its mission, featuring lightning flashes for communications and a blue background representing the Signal Corps.
• Support in Operations: Over the years, the unit has supported numerous operations and exercises, including REFORGER, which tested rapid deployment and communication capabilities.
• Humanitarian Missions: The 34th Signal Battalion supported humanitarian and disaster relief efforts in Europe, providing essential communications during crises.
• Legacy of Excellence: The battalion is remembered for its motto "Communications First," reflecting its ongoing commitment to delivering reliable, timely communications in support of U.S. Army missions worldwide.
