2nd Bn 42nd FA

• Historic Roots: The 2nd Battalion, 42nd Field Artillery Regiment (2-42 FA), known as the “Straight Arrows,” was originally constituted on July 5, 1918, during World War I as part of the National Army. • World War II Service: The battalion served with distinction in World War II, participating in key campaigns including Normandy, Northern France, Rhineland, Ardennes-Alsace, and Central Europe. • Normandy Landings: 2-42 FA landed on Utah Beach shortly after D-Day, providing vital artillery support to advancing infantry units. • Cold War Era: After WWII, the battalion was stationed in Germany during the Cold War as part of the U.S. Army’s commitment to NATO, facing down the Warsaw Pact threat. • Nickname – “Straight Arrows”: The distinctive nickname, “Straight Arrows,” symbolizes the unit’s focus and precision in artillery fire and its commitment to mission success. • Desert Storm: 2-42 FA deployed during Operation Desert Storm in 1991, supporting the liberation of Kuwait with its powerful field artillery. • Transformation to Modern Army: The battalion has transitioned over the years from towed artillery to self-propelled systems, such as the M109A6 Paladin howitzer, embracing modern technology and tactics. • Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom: The battalion deployed multiple times to Iraq and Afghanistan, providing fire support, security, and mentorship to allied forces. • Decorations: 2-42 FA has received numerous awards, including the Presidential Unit Citation and the French Croix de Guerre with Palm for its valor and effectiveness in combat. • Current Role: Today, the 2nd Battalion, 42nd Field Artillery Regiment serves as a key element of the 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division at Fort Carson, Colorado, maintaining readiness to support U.S. and allied missions worldwide.