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History of 1st 8 Inch How Btry, 1st FAG

The 1st 8 Inch Howitzer Battery, part of the 1st Field Artillery Group (1st FAG), was a key artillery unit in the United States Marine Corps. Established to provide heavy fire support, the battery was equipped with the M115 8-inch howitzer, capable of delivering powerful, long-range artillery fire. During the Vietnam War, the 1st 8 Inch How Btry played a critical role in supporting Marine and allied ground operations, often tasked with counter-battery fire and the destruction of fortified enemy positions. Their precision and firepower significantly contributed to the effectiveness of Marine operations throughout their deployment.

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ABOUT 1st 8 Inch How Btry, 1st FAG

  • Formation and Designation: The 1st 8 Inch Howitzer Battery, 1st Field Artillery Group (1st FAG) was a U.S. Marine Corps artillery unit equipped with M110 8-inch self-propelled howitzers, providing heavy firepower support.
  • Vietnam War Service: The unit served notably during the Vietnam War, delivering long-range artillery support for Marine and allied ground operations, particularly in northern I Corps.
  • Operation Dewey Canyon: The battery played a key role in Operation Dewey Canyon (1969), supporting infantry advances into the A Shau Valley with intense and accurate fire missions.
  • Firepower: The M110 howitzers could fire a 200-pound projectile up to 16 miles, making the battery one of the most powerful artillery units in the USMC at the time.
  • Mobile Warfare: Unlike towed artillery, the self-propelled M110s allowed the battery to rapidly reposition, keeping pace with fast-moving combat operations and avoiding counter-battery fire.
  • Counterbattery Engagements: The unit was frequently targeted by North Vietnamese artillery and conducted successful counterbattery fire, disrupting enemy positions along the DMZ and in Laos.
  • Support to Khe Sanh: During the 1968 siege of Khe Sanh, the battery’s fire missions helped defend the base and suppress enemy artillery, contributing to the eventual relief of the garrison.
  • International Cooperation: The 1st 8 Inch Howitzer Battery often provided support to South Vietnamese, ARVN, and allied forces, exemplifying joint operations during the Vietnam War.
  • Heroism and Sacrifice: The battery suffered casualties from enemy fire and accidents, with its Marines displaying bravery under challenging combat conditions, earning several unit commendations.
  • Legacy: After Vietnam, the battery’s history and experiences contributed to the evolution of Marine Corps artillery tactics and are remembered in USMC heritage and veterans’ organizations today.

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