E Btry (AVN) 82nd Arty, 1st Cav Div.

• Origins and Designation: E Battery (Aerial Artillery), 82nd Artillery, was part of the 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile) during the Vietnam War, providing aerial fire support using helicopters instead of traditional ground artillery. • Nickname: The unit was often referred to as "E Battery (Avn)" or "Eagle Flight," symbolizing its airborne artillery role. • Innovative Tactics: E Btry (AVN) pioneered the use of helicopter-mounted artillery, using UH-1B "Huey" helicopters armed with 105mm howitzers and other weapons to support rapid, mobile airmobile operations. • Combat Debut: The unit saw extensive combat action in Vietnam, supporting major operations such as the Battle of Ia Drang in 1965, the first major engagement between US and North Vietnamese forces. • Unique Missions: E Battery provided fire support to ground troops by flying artillery pieces to remote firebases, offering rapid-response firepower where traditional artillery could not reach. • Call Sign: The unit's radio call sign was "Eagle Flight," emphasizing its swift and aggressive support capabilities. • Decorations: E Btry (AVN) and its parent units earned multiple commendations, including Presidential Unit Citations and Valorous Unit Awards for their actions in Vietnam. • Notable Equipment: The unit operated a variety of helicopters, including the UH-1B and UH-1C models, often customizing them with rocket pods, machine guns, and artillery pieces. • Legacy: E Battery’s innovative use of helicopter artillery influenced later Army aviation tactics and helped shape the doctrine for air mobility and aerial fire support. • Reunions and Remembrance: Veterans of E Btry (AVN) 82nd Arty continue to hold reunions and maintain associations to honor their unique service and fallen comrades.