2nd Battery 2:19 Artillery

• Vietnam War Service: The 2nd Battery, 2nd Battalion, 19th Artillery (2/19 Artillery), part of the 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile), played a crucial role in providing artillery support during major operations throughout the Vietnam War from 1965 to 1971. • “Banshee” Nickname: The 2/19th Artillery was often nicknamed the "Banshee Battery," reflecting their reputation for delivering rapid and fearsome fire support. • Battle of Ia Drang: The unit notably participated in the Battle of Ia Drang in November 1965, the first major battle between U.S. forces and North Vietnamese Army, delivering decisive artillery support under intense combat conditions. • Airmobile Artillery: As part of the 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile), the 2/19th Artillery pioneered the use of helicopter mobility to quickly deploy howitzers and crews to remote or embattled locations. • Fire Base Defense: The battery frequently operated from remote fire support bases, sometimes under siege, where it defended itself against enemy attacks, notably during the Tet Offensive and other major enemy assaults. • Innovation in Artillery Tactics: The unit adapted traditional artillery tactics for Vietnam’s challenging terrain, often airlifting 105mm howitzers into jungle clearings and mountainous areas inaccessible by road. • Decorations and Awards: Members of 2/19 Artillery received numerous individual and unit commendations, including Presidential Unit Citations and Valorous Unit Awards for their actions in combat. • Close Coordination with Infantry: The battery worked closely with infantry battalions, often firing in direct support of troops-in-contact and sometimes engaging in direct fire missions against enemy positions. • Legacy of Service: Veterans of 2/19 Artillery have maintained a strong association post-war, holding regular reunions and preserving the unit's history and stories through organizations and online communities. • Distinguished Alumni: Several members of the unit went on to distinguished military or civilian careers; their experiences in 2/19 Artillery are frequently cited as formative in their leadership development.