About this Unit
C Battery, 333rd Field Artillery (Target Acquisition), known as C BTRY 333 FA (TA), has a distinguished history of service within the U.S. Army. Activated during World War II, the 333rd Field Artillery Battalion provided vital fire support and target acquisition capabilities, particularly noted for its crucial role during the Battle of the Bulge. C Battery specialized in locating enemy artillery through advanced radar and sound ranging techniques, greatly enhancing the effectiveness of Allied counter-battery fire. Over the decades, the unit evolved with technological advancements and continued to serve with distinction in subsequent conflicts, upholding a proud legacy of precision and dedication in field artillery operations.
Historical Facts
•
Formation and World War II: C Battery, 333rd Field Artillery (C BTRY 333 FA) was initially constituted in the National Army in August 1917 and served with distinction during World War II as part of the segregated 333rd Field Artillery Battalion.
•
Bastogne and the Battle of the Bulge: During the pivotal Battle of the Bulge in December 1944, the 333rd Field Artillery was attached to the 106th Infantry Division and supported the defense of St. Vith and Bastogne, providing crucial artillery support against German offensives.
•
The Wereth 11: Eleven soldiers from C Battery were captured, tortured, and executed by SS troops near Wereth, Belgium, in one of the most tragic war crimes against African American troops during World War II, now commemorated as the “Wereth 11.”
•
Segregated Service: The battalion, including C Battery, was composed primarily of African-American soldiers led by white officers, reflecting the racial segregation policies of the U.S. Army at the time.
•
Heroism Under Fire: Despite being outnumbered and outgunned, the men of C Battery manned their guns until nearly surrounded, delaying German advances and exemplifying extraordinary bravery.
•
Distinguished Unit Citation: The 333rd Field Artillery received a Distinguished Unit Citation (now known as the Presidential Unit Citation) for their actions during the Battle of the Bulge.
•
Artillery Support: C Battery operated 155mm howitzers, providing both direct and indirect fire missions to support infantry and armor operations throughout the European Theater.
•
Post-War Recognition: For decades, the sacrifices of C Battery and the Wereth 11 were largely unrecognized, but recent memorials and documentaries have helped bring their story to light.
•
Legacy and Memorials: The Wereth 11 Memorial was established in Belgium in 2004 to honor the murdered soldiers of C Battery, becoming a site of international remembrance.
•
Modern Descendants: The lineage of the 333rd Field Artillery, including C Battery, continues in the modern U.S. Army, with its heritage preserved in current field artillery units.
