D Battery 3rd Bn. 71st Air Defense Artillery

D Battery, 3rd Battalion, 71st Air Defense Artillery traces its lineage to the original 71st Coast Artillery, activated in 1918. The unit has a distinguished history of providing air defense, serving in pivotal roles during World War II and later transitioning to support Cold War air defense missions in Europe and the United States. Throughout its service, D Battery operated a variety of air defense systems, from anti-aircraft artillery to modern missile platforms such as the HAWK and Patriot systems. The battery's commitment to protecting allied forces and assets has earned it multiple commendations, reflecting its professionalism and operational effectiveness.