83rd Artillery

• World War II Origins: The 83rd Artillery traces its lineage back to the 83rd Field Artillery Regiment, which was constituted in 1917 and served with distinction during World War II. • Vietnam War Service: The 83rd Artillery played a significant role in the Vietnam War, with several battalions (such as 1st Battalion, 83rd Artillery) providing fire support for U.S. and allied forces from 1966 to 1971. • International Cooperation: The 1st Battalion, 83rd Artillery often supported Australian and New Zealand forces in Vietnam, forging strong bonds between allied units. • Nickname: The unit was sometimes referred to as "The Guns of Dĩ An" due to its long-term base at Dĩ An, near Saigon, during the Vietnam War. • Long-range Firepower: The battalion was equipped with the M108 and M109 self-propelled howitzers, providing crucial 155mm artillery support during key operations. • Operation Cedar Falls: The 83rd Artillery participated in Operation Cedar Falls (1967), one of the largest ground operations of the Vietnam War, supporting infantry as they searched for Viet Cong strongholds. • Distinguished Unit Citations: Elements of the 83rd Artillery received multiple commendations for valor and meritorious service, including the Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry. • Notable Personnel: Several veterans of the 83rd Artillery have gone on to write memoirs and histories, helping preserve the story of their unit’s Vietnam experience. • Post-Vietnam Reorganization: After Vietnam, the 83rd Artillery was re-designated and its battalions inactivated or reassigned as part of broader Army restructuring. • Veterans’ Legacy: The 83rd Artillery Veterans Association remains active, organizing reunions and preserving the memory of the unit’s service through websites and historical projects.