About this Unit
Headquarters and Headquarters Battery, 1st Battalion, 7th Field Artillery Regiment (HHB 1/7th FA) traces its lineage to the original 7th Field Artillery, constituted in 1916. The unit distinguished itself in World War I, providing critical fire support during major campaigns such as St. Mihiel and Meuse-Argonne. Throughout World War II, the battalion was again at the forefront, supporting armored and infantry advances across Europe. In recent decades, HHB 1/7th FA has deployed in support of Operations Desert Storm, Iraqi Freedom, and Enduring Freedom, maintaining a reputation for excellence and adaptability in modern artillery warfare.
Historical Facts
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Founding Roots: HHB, 1st Battalion, 7th Field Artillery (HHB 1/7th FA) traces its lineage back to the original Battery D, 7th Field Artillery, constituted in 1916, making it one of the oldest continuously serving field artillery units in the U.S. Army.
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World War I Service: The unit saw its first major action in World War I, notably participating in the Meuse-Argonne Offensive, one of the war’s largest American operations.
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Division Assignment: The 7th FA became permanently assigned to the famed 1st Infantry Division, the “Big Red One,” in 1917, a partnership that continues to this day.
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Normandy Landings: During World War II, elements of the 1/7th FA landed on Omaha Beach on D-Day, June 6, 1944, providing critical fire support to infantry forces.
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"Drive On" Motto: The battalion’s motto, “Drive On,” exemplifies its history of perseverance and action under fire.
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Vietnam War Deployments: The unit deployed to Vietnam in 1965, participating in numerous major operations including the Tet Offensive, and earned multiple unit citations for valor.
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Operation Desert Storm: In 1991, HHB 1/7th FA played a key role in supporting the 1st Infantry Division’s fast-moving assault into Iraq during Operation Desert Storm.
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Global War on Terror: Since 2001, the battalion has deployed multiple times in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, providing fire support and mentoring allied artillery units.
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Presidential Unit Citations: Throughout its history, the 1/7th FA has received numerous commendations, including Presidential Unit Citations for extraordinary heroism in action.
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Regimental Symbolism: The unit’s distinctive insignia features a red field and a gold cannon, symbolizing artillery firepower and the proud traditions of the regiment.