7:1st FA

• Historic Roots: The 7th Battalion, 1st Field Artillery Regiment (7/1st FA) traces its lineage back to the original 1st Regiment of Artillery, which was constituted in 1821, making it one of the oldest artillery units in the US Army. • Civil War Service: Elements of the 1st Artillery Regiment, from which 7/1st FA descends, served in major battles during the American Civil War, including Gettysburg and Antietam. • World War I: The 1st Field Artillery participated in key World War I campaigns, such as the Meuse-Argonne Offensive, providing crucial fire support. • World War II Campaigns: The parent regiment saw action in North Africa, Sicily, and the Italian Campaign, supporting the Allies with artillery barrages. • Vietnam War: 7/1st FA was activated and deployed to Vietnam, where it provided fire support for US and allied forces, notably at firebases and during major operations. • Firebase Mary Ann Attack: On March 28, 1971, Firebase Mary Ann, manned by elements of 7/1st FA, was attacked in a deadly Viet Cong sapper assault—a notable and tragic event in Vietnam War history. • Modernization: Throughout its history, the battalion transitioned from horse-drawn artillery to modern self-propelled howitzers, reflecting the evolution of artillery tactics and technology. • Desert Storm: The unit participated in Operation Desert Storm (1991), providing fire support for coalition ground forces during the liberation of Kuwait. • Unit Motto: The motto of the 1st Field Artillery Regiment is "Primus Aut Nullus" ("First or Not at All"), reflecting its long-standing spirit and tradition. • Distinctive Insignia: The unit's distinctive unit insignia features a gold cannon barrel on a red shield, symbolizing its artillery heritage and valor in combat.