About this Unit
The 6th Battalion, 32d Artillery (6th Bn, 32d Arty) was a unit of the United States Army with a storied history, particularly during the Vietnam War. Activated during World War II, the battalion later served in Southeast Asia, where it provided heavy artillery support, including fire missions for infantry and armored units. In Vietnam, the 6th Battalion, 32d Artillery was renowned for its use of 8-inch and 175mm self-propelled guns, significantly contributing to major operations and defensive actions. The unit earned several commendations for valor and effectiveness before being inactivated as part of postwar drawdowns.
Historical Facts
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Distinctive Lineage: The 6th Battalion, 32d Artillery (6th BN, 32d ARTY) traces its origins to the 32d Field Artillery Regiment, which was constituted in 1918 and has served in various forms through multiple major conflicts.
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Vietnam War Service: The 6th Battalion, 32d Artillery was most notably active during the Vietnam War, providing heavy artillery support for U.S. and Allied forces.
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Nickname – "Proud Americans": The 32d Artillery Regiment is known by the nickname "Proud Americans," a moniker that 6th Battalion also embraced during their service.
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Firepower: The battalion was equipped with 155mm self-propelled howitzers (M109) and 8-inch self-propelled howitzers (M110), giving it formidable long-range fire support capability.
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Tet Offensive 1968: During the Tet Offensive, batteries of the 6th Battalion played a critical defensive role, providing counter-battery fire and supporting besieged bases such as Bien Hoa and Long Binh.
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Presidential Unit Citation: Elements of the 6th Battalion, 32d Artillery received the Presidential Unit Citation for extraordinary heroism and gallantry in action during operations in Vietnam.
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Multi-Divisional Support: The battalion provided fire support to several divisions, including the 9th Infantry Division, 25th Infantry Division, and the 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile).
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Innovative Fire Missions: The 6th BN, 32d ARTY was recognized for conducting innovative fire missions, including "firecracker" missions for area denial and close support for helicopter assaults.
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Deactivation: The battalion was deactivated in the early 1970s as part of the U.S. drawdown in Vietnam, but its legacy continues in the broader history of the 32d Field Artillery Regiment.
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Veteran Community: Veterans of the 6th Battalion, 32d Artillery remain active in reunion groups and historical societies, preserving the unit’s proud history and camaraderie.
