About this Unit
Battery B, 4th Battalion, 42nd Field Artillery Regiment (Btry B, 4/42nd FA) traces its lineage to the 42nd Field Artillery, which was constituted in 1918. Reactivated and redesignated multiple times, the 4th Battalion served with distinction during the Vietnam War as part of the 4th Infantry Division, providing crucial artillery support in numerous operations. In the decades following, Btry B saw deployments in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, adapting to modern combat and modular force structures. Renowned for its professionalism and firepower, Btry B, 4/42nd FA continues to uphold the proud traditions of the regiment within the U.S. Army’s field artillery community.
Historical Facts
•
Lineage Traces to World War II: Battery B, 4th Battalion, 42nd Field Artillery (Btry B 4/42nd FA) traces its roots back to earlier artillery units formed during World War II, serving as part of the U.S. Army's expanding artillery forces.
•
Association with the 4th Infantry Division: The 4/42nd Field Artillery has historically been part of the 4th Infantry Division, known as the "Ivy Division," supporting its operations with artillery firepower.
•
Vietnam War Service: The unit participated in combat operations during the Vietnam War, providing critical fire support in challenging jungle and mountainous terrain.
•
Desert Storm Deployment: Btry B 4/42nd FA deployed in support of Operation Desert Storm in 1991, contributing to the coalition victory by delivering effective artillery barrages.
•
Adoption of Advanced Howitzers: The unit has operated several key artillery systems over its history, including the M109 series self-propelled howitzers, and later upgrades to more modern systems.
•
Global War on Terror: Btry B 4/42nd FA deployed multiple times in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, providing fire support and conducting counter-battery operations.
•
Unit Motto: The 42nd Field Artillery Regiment's motto is "Festina Lente" (Make Haste Slowly), reflecting the balance of caution and speed required in artillery operations.
•
Distinctive Unit Insignia: The unit's insignia features a field piece and a fleur-de-lis, symbolizing its artillery heritage and service in France during World War II.
•
Training Excellence: The battery has been recognized for its excellence in artillery marksmanship, winning several division-level competitions for accuracy and speed.
•
Deactivation and Reactivation: As with many Army units, Btry B 4/42nd FA has experienced periods of inactivation and reactivation, reflecting the changing needs of the U.S. Army over time.