About this Unit
Battery D (Target Acquisition Battery), 25th Field Artillery (Btry D (TAB) 25th FA), has played a crucial role in providing counterfire and target acquisition support for U.S. Army operations. Originally constituted as part of the 25th Field Artillery Regiment, the unit has been equipped with advanced radar and surveillance systems to detect and locate enemy artillery and rocket launches. Over the years, Btry D (TAB) 25th FA has supported various campaigns and exercises, enhancing the accuracy and effectiveness of artillery fire. Its contributions have been vital in safeguarding friendly forces and enabling decisive firepower on the modern battlefield.
Historical Facts
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Origins in World War I: Battery D, 25th Field Artillery (Btry D, 25th FA) traces its lineage to World War I, forming part of the U.S. Army’s growing artillery force.
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Role as Target Acquisition Battery (TAB): The unit is designated as a Target Acquisition Battery, specializing in detecting, locating, and tracking enemy artillery to improve counterfire capabilities.
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Assignment to 25th Infantry Division: Historically, it has served under the 25th Infantry Division, supporting the famous "Tropic Lightning" Division known for its Pacific and Vietnam service.
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Vietnam War Service: Btry D (TAB) 25th FA was activated for the Vietnam War, providing crucial artillery target location and counter-mortar radar support from 1967 to 1971.
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AN/MPQ-4 and AN/TPQ-36 Radar Operations: The unit operated advanced counter-battery radars like AN/MPQ-4 and later AN/TPQ-36, enabling detection of enemy mortars and artillery positions with high precision.
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Nickname "TAB": The nickname "TAB" stands for Target Acquisition Battery, reflecting its specialized mission within the Field Artillery.
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Decorations: The battery received several commendations and unit citations for its service in Vietnam, including the Meritorious Unit Commendation.
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Cold War and Post-Vietnam Service: After Vietnam, Btry D (TAB) 25th FA was reactivated and inactivated multiple times, reflecting changing Army needs for target acquisition capabilities.
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Modernization: The battery has kept pace with new technology, transitioning from analog to digital systems, and incorporating the latest radar and sound-ranging techniques.
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Legacy of Saving Lives: The quick and accurate work of TAB soldiers has saved countless lives by providing early warning and rapid counterfire, earning the battery a reputation as a “guardian angel” for frontline troops.