About this Unit
**HHC II Field Force Vietnam, 5th Battalion, 2nd Artillery**
The Headquarters and Headquarters Company (HHC), II Field Force Vietnam (II FFV), 5th Battalion, 2nd Artillery, served as a critical artillery support unit during the Vietnam War. Activated in Vietnam, the 5th Battalion, 2nd Artillery provided general support, reinforcing firepower for infantry and armored units operating in III Corps Tactical Zone. The unit was responsible for coordinating and executing artillery missions, including counter-battery fire, harassment and interdiction, and support for ground operations. Throughout its deployment, HHC II FFV, 5th BN, 2nd ARTY played a vital role in major operations such as Junction City and Cedar Falls, contributing significantly to the overall effectiveness of allied forces in South Vietnam.
Historical Facts
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Origins of II Field Force Vietnam (IIFFV):
IIFFV was a corps-level command of the United States Army in Vietnam, activated in March 1966 to control all U.S. Army units in the III Corps Tactical Zone, covering the area around Saigon.
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Role of HHC (Headquarters and Headquarters Company):
The HHC of IIFFV served as the core command and support unit, providing administrative, logistical, and operational support to the entire Field Force and its subordinate units.
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5th Battalion, 2nd Artillery's Mission:
The 5th Battalion, 2nd Artillery (5/2 Artillery) was a heavy artillery unit equipped primarily with 175mm and 8-inch self-propelled guns, delivering long-range fire support in the III Corps region.
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First Major Engagement:
5/2 Artillery participated in major operations such as Operation Cedar Falls and Operation Junction City, providing crucial firepower during large-scale search and destroy missions against Viet Cong strongholds.
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Nickname and Motto:
The 2nd Artillery Regiment is nicknamed "The Second to None," reflecting its distinguished service record dating back to the War of 1812.
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Vietnamese Partnerships:
IIFFV and its subordinate units, including 5/2 Artillery, often worked closely with South Vietnamese Army (ARVN) units, coordinating fire missions and sharing intelligence.
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Decorations and Honors:
The 5th Battalion, 2nd Artillery received several unit citations for its service in Vietnam, including the Meritorious Unit Commendation and the Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm.
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Innovative Tactics:
The battalion was known for its rapid displacement and "shoot and scoot" tactics, moving heavy guns quickly to avoid counter-battery fire from enemy forces.
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Supporting Key Battles:
5/2 Artillery provided critical fire support during the 1968 Tet Offensive, helping to repel enemy attacks on Saigon and surrounding bases.
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Legacy and Inactivation:
After serving in Vietnam, the 5th Battalion, 2nd Artillery was inactivated in 1970, but its legacy lives on through veterans' associations and historical commemorations.
