About this Unit
The 3rd Battalion, 71st Air Defense Artillery Regiment (3-71st ADA) traces its lineage to earlier air defense units formed during World War II, with its roots in the 71st Coast Artillery. Reactivated and reorganized several times throughout the Cold War, the battalion played a key role in providing air defense for U.S. and allied forces in Europe, particularly as part of NATO’s integrated air defense network. During the late 20th and early 21st centuries, 3-71st ADA transitioned to modern air defense systems, such as the Patriot missile system, enhancing its ability to counter advanced aerial threats. Today, the battalion continues its mission of protecting critical assets and supporting U.S. and allied forces with cutting-edge air and missile defense capabilities.
Historical Facts
• Lineage: The 3rd Battalion, 71st Air Defense Artillery Regiment (3-71 ADA) traces its lineage back to the 71st Coast Artillery, activated during World War II to provide anti-aircraft protection.
• Activation: The unit was officially constituted on 17 July 1943, and activated at Camp Stewart, Georgia, a major training center for anti-aircraft artillery during WWII.
• World War II Service: The 71st ADA saw action in the European Theater, providing air defense for Allied ground forces and logistics centers, particularly during the Normandy and Rhineland campaigns.
• Cold War Era: During the Cold War, elements of the 71st ADA were stationed in Germany to protect NATO forces from potential Soviet air attacks, utilizing Nike Hercules and later HAWK missile systems.
• Patriot Missile Transition: In the late 1980s, 3-71 ADA transitioned to the Patriot missile system, enhancing its capability to counter modern air and missile threats.
• Operation Iraqi Freedom: The battalion was deployed to the Middle East during Operation Iraqi Freedom, providing critical air and missile defense coverage for coalition forces and key infrastructure.
• Notable Awards: 3-71 ADA has received several unit commendations for its performance in combat, including the Meritorious Unit Commendation for service in Southwest Asia.
• Training Excellence: The unit is renowned for its high level of training and readiness, often participating in joint exercises with allied nations and consistently earning top ratings in evaluations.
• Modern Deployments: In recent years, 3-71 ADA has been a key component of the U.S. Army's global missile defense posture, with deployments to locations such as South Korea and the Middle East.
• Motto and Symbolism: The battalion’s motto, “Swift and Sure,” reflects its mission to provide rapid and reliable air defense, and its unit insignia features lightning bolts symbolizing speed and striking power.
