VetFriends Members: 3,064,780

 
JOIN NOW

History of Charlie Company 1:14th artillary

Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 14th Artillery (1/14th Artillery), was a distinguished unit within the U.S. Army’s field artillery branch. Activated during the Vietnam War, the battalion provided crucial fire support to infantry and armored units, often operating in challenging terrains and under hostile conditions. Charlie Company was renowned for its rapid deployment of howitzers and effective coordination with ground forces, contributing significantly to major operations such as the Tet Offensive and counterinsurgency missions. Their dedication and effectiveness earned them multiple commendations, solidifying their legacy in U.S. military history.

Members

Load More

Gallery

More Unit Photos

ABOUT Charlie Company 1:14th artillary

  • Vietnam War Service: Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 14th Artillery (1/14th Artillery) served with distinction in Vietnam, providing direct artillery support to several infantry divisions from 1966 through the early 1970s.
  • Nickname – "The Big Red One": While 1/14th Artillery supported multiple units, at times it was attached to the 1st Infantry Division, which is famously nicknamed "The Big Red One."
  • Fire Base Operations: The company manned numerous fire bases in Vietnam, including Fire Base Thunder IV and Fire Base Pershing, often facing mortar and rocket attacks.
  • “Shoot and Scoot” Tactics: To avoid enemy counter-battery fire, Charlie Company frequently employed "shoot and scoot" tactics, rapidly relocating artillery after firing missions.
  • Dual Roles: Members of the company occasionally operated as infantry, taking part in perimeter defense and patrols during enemy attacks on their firebases.
  • Distinguished Unit Citations: The battalion, including Charlie Company, received several awards for valor, including the Presidential Unit Citation and the Meritorious Unit Commendation.
  • First to Field M109 Howitzers: 1/14th Artillery was among the first Vietnam units to field the self-propelled M109 155mm howitzer, enhancing their mobility and firepower.
  • Medal of Honor Recipients: Personnel from 1/14th Artillery, though not always from Charlie Company, received high individual honors for heroism under fire, including the Silver Star and Bronze Star.
  • Reunion and Legacy: Veterans of Charlie Company and 1/14th Artillery continue to hold reunions and actively preserve their history through associations and online groups.
  • Cultural Impact: The experiences of artillerymen from Charlie Company have been featured in memoirs and oral histories, highlighting the crucial role of artillery in supporting ground operations during the Vietnam War.

Army Best Sellers

Go To Store