About this Unit
The 5th Battalion, 44th Air Defense Artillery Regiment (5-44 ADA) traces its lineage to the original 44th Coast Artillery, organized in 1918. Reactivated and redesignated several times, the battalion became known for its service providing air defense with both Nike and HAWK missile systems during the Cold War. In recent decades, 5-44 ADA has served as a key Avenger and Stinger missile unit, supporting operations in the Middle East and strengthening U.S. Army air defense capabilities. The battalion is currently assigned to the 108th Air Defense Artillery Brigade, continuing its mission to protect critical assets and forces from aerial threats.
Historical Facts
•
Origin in World War II: The 5th Battalion, 44th Air Defense Artillery Regiment traces its lineage back to the 54th Coast Artillery Regiment, constituted in 1917. The 44th Regiment itself was activated in 1918 and reorganized several times, eventually forming the base for the 5th Battalion.
•
Distinctive Unit Insignia: The 5-44 ADA's insignia features a scarlet and yellow shield symbolizing the Air Defense Artillery branch, with a lightning bolt and missile representing its modern mission.
•
Vietnam War Service: The battalion served in Vietnam from 1966 to 1971 as part of the 108th Artillery Group, primarily providing air defense for key installations, including Cam Ranh Bay and Da Nang.
•
First Use of "Duster" in Combat: The 5-44 ADA operated the M42 "Duster," a twin 40mm self-propelled anti-aircraft gun, which proved highly effective not just against aircraft but also in ground support against enemy infantry.
•
Transition to Air Defense Missiles: After Vietnam, the battalion transitioned from gun-based anti-aircraft systems to missile-based air defense systems, including the HAWK and later the Patriot missile.
•
Reactivation in Modern Era: The 5th Battalion was inactivated and reactivated several times, most recently reactivated at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, as part of the 108th Air Defense Artillery Brigade.
•
Global Deployments: Elements of the battalion have deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, providing air and missile defense for U.S. and allied forces.
•
Nickname "The Dusters": The battalion is commonly referred to as "The Dusters," a nod to its Vietnam-era M42 Duster vehicles and their reputation for dusting up the enemy.
•
Presidential Unit Citation: The battalion and its predecessor units have received several decorations, including the Presidential Unit Citation for actions in Vietnam.
•
Legacy of Adaptability: Over more than a century, the 5-44 ADA has adapted to changing military technologies and doctrines, from coastal artillery to mobile anti-aircraft guns to modern missile defense, embodying the evolution of U.S. air defense capabilities.
