4:82nd FA

• Longstanding Lineage: The 4th Battalion, 82nd Field Artillery Regiment (4/82nd FA) traces its origins back to the 82nd Field Artillery, which was constituted in 1917 and served in France during World War I. • Vietnam War Service: 4/82nd FA was activated during the Vietnam War and provided direct support to the 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile), participating in major operations such as the Cambodian Incursion of 1970. • Nickname – “Dragons”: The battalion earned the nickname "Dragons" for its fierce fire support and its ability to "breathe fire" on the enemy. • Artillery Innovation: 4/82nd FA was one of the first units to deploy the M102 105mm howitzer in Vietnam, which provided increased mobility and firepower for airmobile operations. • Decorations: The unit has earned several Presidential Unit Citations and Valorous Unit Awards for its actions in Vietnam. • Gulf War Participation: The battalion was reactivated for Operation Desert Storm, supporting the 3rd Armored Division during the liberation of Kuwait in 1991. • Operation Iraqi Freedom: 4/82nd FA provided artillery fire support and security operations during the early years of Operation Iraqi Freedom, adapting to new missions such as convoy security. • Tragic Losses: During Vietnam, the battalion experienced significant casualties, notably during attacks on firebases such as LZ Nancy and LZ Jamie, where they showed remarkable resilience under fire. • Reflagging and Transformation: Over the years, the battalion has been inactivated, reflagged, and transformed multiple times, reflecting broader changes in Army structure and doctrine. • Heraldic Symbolism: The unit's crest features a dragon, symbolizing its firepower and aggressive spirit, and its motto "Can and Will" embodies its commitment to mission accomplishment.