ABOUT HHB Divarty, ft Riley
- Formation and Name: HHB DIVARTY stands for Headquarters and Headquarters Battery, Division Artillery. It serves as the command element for all artillery units within the 1st Infantry Division at Fort Riley, Kansas.
- Historic Roots: The DIVARTY concept dates back to World War II, where it provided centralized artillery command for divisions in major operations across Europe.
- The "Big Red One": HHB DIVARTY is part of the famous "Big Red One" (1st Infantry Division), the oldest continuously serving division in the U.S. Army, established in 1917.
- Vietnam War Operations: DIVARTY units from the 1st Infantry Division provided crucial fire support during the Vietnam War, engaging in major operations such as Operation Cedar Falls and Operation Junction City.
- Cold War Role: During the Cold War, HHB DIVARTY at Fort Riley was tasked with rapid deployment and readiness to counter Soviet threats in Europe.
- Gulf War Contributions: In Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, 1st Infantry Division Artillery units provided devastating firepower, supporting the famous "left hook" maneuver into Iraq.
- Modernization: HHB DIVARTY has played a key role in the modernization of artillery, fielding advanced systems like the M109A6 Paladin and integrating digital fire control systems.
- Reactivation: HHB DIVARTY was deactivated in 2006 as part of Army transformation, but was reactivated in 2015 to restore centralized artillery command within the division.
- Community Engagement: The unit is known for its strong ties to the Fort Riley and Manhattan, Kansas communities, participating in local events, parades, and educational outreach.
- Honors and Legacy: HHB DIVARTY soldiers have earned numerous unit citations, campaign streamers, and individual awards for valor, upholding a proud tradition of excellence in artillery operations.