519th FA

• World War II Activation: The 519th Field Artillery Battalion (FA) was constituted in the Army of the United States on 24 September 1942 and activated at Camp Gruber, Oklahoma, on 15 October 1942. • European Theater Service: The 519th FA served in the European Theater during World War II, participating in major campaigns such as Rhineland, Ardennes-Alsace, and Central Europe. • Artillery Support: Equipped with 155mm howitzers, the battalion provided crucial fire support for infantry and armored divisions, often engaging enemy artillery and fortifications. • Bastogne and the Battle of the Bulge: The unit was involved in the famous Battle of the Bulge, providing artillery fire to help repel German advances during the siege of Bastogne in December 1944. • Crossing the Rhine: The 519th FA played a vital role in supporting the crossing of the Rhine River, one of the key operations that led to the final defeat of Nazi Germany. • Distinguished Unit Citations: Elements of the 519th FA received commendations for outstanding performance and bravery under fire during multiple engagements. • Postwar Service: After World War II, the unit was inactivated in Germany on 1 November 1945 but later reactivated during the Cold War period. • Cold War Assignments: The battalion was assigned to various artillery brigades and provided support during training exercises and NATO operations in Europe. • Unit Motto and Insignia: The 519th FA adopted the motto "On the Mark," symbolizing their accuracy and reliability in delivering artillery fire. Their unit crest features a red field with a gold artillery piece. • Veteran Reunions: Veterans of the 519th Field Artillery maintain a legacy of camaraderie, holding reunions and preserving their history through oral histories, photos, and memorabilia.