About this Unit
HHB (Headquarters and Headquarters Battery), 2nd Battalion, 17th Field Artillery (2/17 FA), has a distinguished history within the U.S. Army. Stationed at Camp Pelham, South Korea, during the late 20th century, the unit played a crucial role in providing fire support and maintaining readiness along the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) during the Cold War. Members of HHB 2/17 FA were responsible for command and control, communications, and logistical support for the battalion’s artillery batteries. Their presence at Camp Pelham underscored the United States’ commitment to the defense of South Korea and deterrence against potential aggression on the Korean Peninsula.
Historical Facts
•
Origin of the Unit: Headquarters and Headquarters Battery, 2nd Battalion, 17th Field Artillery (HHB 2/17 FA) can trace its lineage back to World War I, having been constituted in 1916 as part of the 17th Field Artillery Regiment.
•
Stationed at Camp Pelham: HHB 2/17 FA was stationed at Camp Pelham, South Korea, an important U.S. Army installation near the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), playing a key role in the defense of South Korea during the Cold War and beyond.
•
“Thunder” Nickname: The 2/17 FA Battalion was often referred to as the "Thunder" battalion due to the tremendous firepower it could project with its artillery pieces.
•
Vietnam Service: The 2/17 FA saw extensive combat in Vietnam, participating in 13 campaigns and earning multiple decorations for valor and meritorious service.
•
Camp Pelham’s Renaming: In 2004, Camp Pelham was renamed to Camp Hovey, reflecting changes in U.S. Army basing in Korea and honoring Master Sergeant Howard Hovey, a Korean War hero.
•
Self-Propelled Artillery: During its time at Camp Pelham, 2/17 FA operated M109 self-propelled howitzers, providing rapid, mobile, and powerful artillery support to U.S. and allied units.
•
Frequent Field Exercises: Soldiers of HHB 2/17 FA routinely participated in large-scale field training exercises such as Team Spirit and Foal Eagle, designed to ensure combat readiness and interoperability with South Korean forces.
•
Community Relations: The soldiers of HHB 2/17 FA were known for engaging with local Korean communities, participating in goodwill missions, English teaching, and civic projects to foster stronger U.S.-Korea relations.
•
Decorations and Honors: The unit has been awarded multiple Presidential Unit Citations, Valorous Unit Awards, and Meritorious Unit Commendations for its service in various conflicts.
•
Enduring Legacy: Although the unit has relocated and restructured over the years, veterans of HHB 2/17 FA and Camp Pelham maintain a strong camaraderie and regularly hold reunions to honor their shared history.
