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History of V Corps Artillery

V Corps Artillery was a key artillery formation of the United States Army, serving as the principal fire support element for V Corps. Established in World War II, the unit provided critical artillery support during major campaigns in the European Theater, including the Normandy invasion and the push into Germany. Throughout the Cold War, V Corps Artillery was stationed in West Germany as part of NATO’s forward defense, ready to respond to any potential Soviet aggression. The unit continued to serve in various capacities until its deactivation, playing a significant role in both conventional deterrence and combat operations.

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ABOUT V Corps Artillery

  • Origins: V Corps Artillery traces its lineage to the formation of V Corps in July 1918 during World War I, providing critical fire support for the American Expeditionary Forces in France.
  • World War II Service: During WWII, V Corps Artillery played a pivotal role in the D-Day landings, supporting infantry divisions as they stormed Omaha Beach on June 6, 1944.
  • Cold War Defender: Stationed in Germany during the Cold War, V Corps Artillery was a key element in NATO's defense plan against potential Warsaw Pact aggression.
  • Pershing Missiles: In the 1960s-70s, V Corps Artillery units operated Pershing nuclear missiles, becoming a critical component of the United States' nuclear deterrence strategy in Europe.
  • Desert Storm: Elements of V Corps Artillery deployed during Operation Desert Storm in 1991, delivering devastating firepower in support of coalition forces in Iraq.
  • Operation Iraqi Freedom: V Corps Artillery was heavily involved in the 2003 invasion of Iraq, providing artillery support for the rapid advance toward Baghdad.
  • Multi-National Exercises: The unit regularly participated in NATO exercises such as REFORGER, demonstrating rapid deployment and interoperability with allied forces.
  • Distinctive Insignia: The V Corps Artillery distinctive unit insignia features a shield with a red background and five white stars, symbolizing the Corps' numerical designation.
  • Technological Pioneer: V Corps Artillery was among the first to field advanced systems like the M109 Paladin self-propelled howitzer and the Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS).
  • Inactivation and Legacy: As part of Army restructuring, V Corps Artillery was inactivated in June 2007, but its units and traditions continue within other artillery formations.

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