4th Battalion, 27th Field Artillery Regiment

• Origins in World War I: The 27th Field Artillery Regiment was constituted in 1918 during World War I, providing artillery support during the final months of the conflict. • World War II Campaigns: Elements of the regiment served with distinction in major campaigns across North Africa, Italy, and Central Europe during World War II. • Redesignation and Modern Activation: The 4th Battalion, 27th Field Artillery Regiment (4-27 FA) was activated in 1988 as part of the 1st Armored Division, stationed in Baumholder, Germany. • Nickname "Iron Thunder": The battalion is affectionately called “Iron Thunder,” reflecting its powerful artillery capabilities and its assignment to the “Iron Division.” • First to Fire in Operation Desert Storm: 4-27 FA was the first unit of the 1st Armored Division to fire in combat during Operation Desert Storm in 1991, providing critical fire support during the ground offensive. • Transition to the Paladin: The battalion was among the first in the U.S. Army to field the M109A6 Paladin self-propelled howitzer, enhancing its mobility and firepower. • Peacekeeping in the Balkans: Soldiers from 4-27 FA participated in peacekeeping operations in Bosnia and Kosovo during the 1990s, supporting NATO’s efforts for stability in the region. • Combat in Operation Iraqi Freedom: 4-27 FA deployed multiple times to Iraq, providing artillery support and, at times, serving in non-traditional infantry roles during urban operations in Baghdad and Ramadi. • Unit Awards: The battalion has earned several unit commendations, including the Valorous Unit Award, for extraordinary heroism in action against armed enemies. • Continued Innovation: Today, 4-27 FA continues to set standards in fire support, training with advanced systems and integrating with multinational NATO partners in Europe.