5:6th Artillery

• Origins: The 5th Battalion, 6th Artillery (5/6th Artillery) traces its lineage to the 6th Regiment of Artillery, constituted in 1898 and organized during the Spanish-American War era. • World War II Service: Elements of the 6th Artillery participated in key campaigns during World War II, including the Normandy invasion and operations throughout Northern France and Germany. • Vietnam War Deployments: The 5th Battalion, 6th Artillery was activated and deployed to Vietnam, providing direct and general artillery support to U.S. and allied units, particularly in the Central Highlands. • Firepower: In Vietnam, the unit operated 155mm self-propelled howitzers, which were highly valued for their mobility and heavy firepower in the conflict’s challenging terrain. • Nickname: 5/6th Artillery units often referred to themselves as “The Fighting Sixth,” a moniker reflecting the pride and combat effectiveness of the unit. • Presidential Unit Citation: The battalion has received distinguished honors, including the Presidential Unit Citation, recognizing extraordinary heroism in action against an armed enemy. • Integrated Operations: The 5/6th frequently operated alongside infantry and armored units, providing critical fire support during both offensive and defensive operations. • Counterinsurgency Role: In Vietnam, the battalion played a key role in counterinsurgency operations, disrupting enemy supply lines and providing defensive fire for bases under attack. • Legacy: The lineage of the 5th Battalion, 6th Artillery continues today in various forms within the U.S. Army, with its honors and traditions maintained by successor units. • Memorable Engagement: In 1968, during the Tet Offensive, 5/6th Artillery units were instrumental in defending bases such as Kontum and Pleiku, firing thousands of rounds in support of embattled U.S. and ARVN forces.