About this Unit
The 6th Battalion, 9th Field Artillery Regiment (6/9th FA) has a distinguished history within the United States Army. Activated during World War II, the unit provided vital artillery support in the European Theater, contributing to Allied victories in several key campaigns. In later decades, the 6/9th FA was reactivated and served with distinction during the Vietnam War, offering fire support in some of the conflict’s most intense battles. Today, the legacy of the 6/9th FA continues as part of the Army’s field artillery forces, upholding a tradition of excellence and dedication to mission success.
Historical Facts
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Origins in World War I: The 6th Battalion, 9th Field Artillery (6/9th FA) traces its lineage to the 9th Field Artillery Regiment, constituted in 1916 and activated in 1917 at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii.
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World War II Service: Elements of the 9th Field Artillery served in the Pacific Theater, participating in key campaigns such as Guadalcanal, Leyte, and Luzon.
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Korean War Involvement: The 9th Field Artillery was heavily engaged in the Korean War, providing vital fire support during battles such as the Pusan Perimeter and Inchon Landing.
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Vietnam War Legacy: The 6/9th FA was a key artillery battalion in Vietnam, supporting the 9th Infantry Division in the Mekong Delta from 1966 to 1970, earning several unit commendations.
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Nickname "The Mighty Ninth": The 9th Field Artillery Regiment is often referred to as “The Mighty Ninth,” a nickname reflecting its storied combat record.
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Artillery Innovation: During Vietnam, 6/9th FA pioneered the use of riverine artillery fire support, adapting to the unique challenges of the Mekong Delta's waterways.
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Distinctive Unit Insignia: The 9th FA’s insignia features a red shield with a gold bend and a field gun, symbolizing the unit's artillery heritage and valor.
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Reactivation and Modern Service: After Vietnam, elements of the 6/9th FA have been reactivated and inactivated multiple times, serving in various artillery brigades and divisions, adapting to modern warfare needs.
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Decorations and Honors: The unit has received numerous decorations, including Presidential Unit Citations, Meritorious Unit Commendations, and foreign awards for actions in World War II, Korea, and Vietnam.
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Veteran Community: The 6/9th FA has an active veterans’ association that preserves its history, organizes reunions, and supports former members and their families.
