VetFriends Members: 3,064,780

 
JOIN NOW

History of 71st Signal Battalion

The 71st Signal Battalion was originally constituted in the U.S. Army during World War II, on 26 February 1943, and activated at Camp Shelby, Mississippi. The battalion provided vital communications support for Allied operations throughout the European Theater, including during the Normandy campaign and the subsequent push into Germany. After the war, the unit was inactivated but later reactivated during the Cold War era, serving strategically in Germany to support NATO communications. Throughout its service, the 71st Signal Battalion has been recognized for its technical excellence and adaptability in rapidly evolving combat environments.

Members

Load More

Gallery

More Unit Photos

ABOUT 71st Signal Battalion

  • World War II Origins: The 71st Signal Battalion was originally activated on March 1, 1942 at Fort Monmouth, New Jersey, to provide communications support during World War II.
  • European Campaigns: The Battalion served in the European Theater, participating in campaigns including Normandy, Northern France, Rhineland, Ardennes-Alsace, and Central Europe.
  • Normandy Landings: Members of the 71st Signal Battalion landed in France shortly after D-Day, establishing vital communications networks for advancing Allied forces.
  • Postwar Service: After World War II, the unit was inactivated in Germany in 1946, but later reactivated to support Cold War missions.
  • Korean War Era: The 71st Signal Battalion was reactivated at Camp Gordon, Georgia, in 1951, serving as a training and support unit during the Korean conflict.
  • Vietnam War Support: Although not deployed as a whole, elements and personnel from the 71st contributed to communications and logistical support during the Vietnam War.
  • Technological Evolution: The Battalion transitioned from using field telephones and wire communications in WWII to adopting advanced digital, satellite, and secure communications in later decades.
  • Gulf War Deployment: The 71st Signal Battalion deployed to Southwest Asia during Operation Desert Storm, establishing and maintaining critical communications networks for coalition forces.
  • Decorations and Honors: The Battalion has been awarded multiple Meritorious Unit Commendations and campaign streamers for its distinguished service.
  • Modern-Day Role: Today, the 71st Signal Battalion continues to provide rapid, reliable, and secure communications support to U.S. Army operations, adapting to the demands of the digital battlefield.

Army Best Sellers

Go To Store