About this Unit
The 40th Signal Battalion was originally constituted on 18 October 1927 in the Regular Army as the 40th Signal Company and activated at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. Throughout World War II, the unit provided critical communications support in the European Theater, facilitating effective command and control for major operations. Over the decades, the battalion has served in various capacities, including deployments during the Cold War and in support of operations in Southwest Asia. Today, the 40th Signal Battalion continues to deliver cutting-edge communications and information systems support to units across the U.S. Army, upholding a legacy of excellence and adaptability.
Historical Facts
• Origins in World War II: The 40th Signal Battalion was constituted on 18 October 1927 in the Regular Army as the 40th Signal Company and activated on 1 June 1941 at Fort Jackson, South Carolina. It played a crucial communications role during World War II.
• European Theater Service: During WWII, the unit served with distinction in the European Theater, supporting major Allied operations, including the campaigns in Normandy, Northern France, Rhineland, Ardennes-Alsace, and Central Europe.
• Communication Innovations: The battalion was among the first to use portable radio technology and wire communications in rapidly shifting front-line scenarios, significantly improving battlefield command and control.
• Cold War Reorganization: After WWII, the 40th Signal Battalion was inactivated, but was later reactivated during the Cold War, adapting to new technologies and missions in the face of Soviet threats.
• Vietnam War Service: Some elements of the battalion supported operations in the Vietnam War, providing critical communications in challenging jungle environments and helping to pioneer mobile communications techniques.
• Modernization: The unit has continuously adapted to changes in military communications, transitioning from analog to digital systems and integrating satellite technologies into its operations.
• Desert Storm Contributions: The 40th Signal Battalion played a significant role in Operation Desert Storm by establishing and maintaining vital communication links for coalition forces in the harsh desert environment.
• Post-9/11 Deployments: The battalion has supported numerous deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan, enabling secure and reliable communications for combat and support units during Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.
• Unit Decorations: Over its history, the 40th Signal Battalion has earned several unit commendations, including Meritorious Unit Commendations and campaign streamers, reflecting its exemplary service record.
• Present Day Mission: Currently assigned to the 11th Signal Brigade at Fort Huachuca, Arizona, the 40th Signal Battalion continues to provide cutting-edge communications support, including cyber defense and rapid-deployment capabilities for US Army operations worldwide.
