60th ADA

• Origins in World War II: The 60th Air Defense Artillery Regiment traces its origins to 1917 and was originally constituted during World War I as the 60th Artillery, Coast Artillery Corps. • Philippine Defense: The 60th ADA played a prominent role during World War II in the defense of the Philippines, particularly in Bataan and Corregidor, against the Japanese invasion. • Prisoners of War: Many members of the 60th were captured after the fall of Corregidor in 1942 and endured the infamous Bataan Death March and subsequent imprisonment. • Distinctive Unit Insignia: The unit’s insignia features a griffin, symbolizing vigilance and readiness, and a broken chain, representing liberation and the breaking of enemy power. • Cold War Defense: The 60th was reactivated during the Cold War as part of the U.S. Army’s anti-aircraft artillery defense system in Europe, primarily stationed in Germany. • Nike Missile Era: The 60th ADA operated Nike-Hercules missile batteries, providing air defense against potential Soviet bomber attacks during the height of the Cold War. • Reorganizations: Over its history, the 60th ADA has undergone multiple reorganizations and redesignations, reflecting changes in technology and military doctrine. • Motto: The regiment’s motto, "Coelis Imperamus" (“We Rule the Heavens”), reflects its air defense mission and heritage. • Decorations: The 60th ADA has been awarded several unit citations, including the Philippine Presidential Unit Citation and the Presidential Unit Citation for their actions in World War II. • Modern Role: Today, elements of the 60th ADA continue to serve as part of the U.S. Army’s air and missile defense forces, adapting to new threats and technologies in defense of the nation and its allies.