About this Unit
HHB, 2nd Battalion, 83rd Field Artillery (FA) boasts a distinguished history of service within the United States Army. Originally constituted during World War II, the battalion participated in multiple campaigns across Europe, providing crucial artillery support to Allied forces. In subsequent decades, 2-83rd FA was reactivated for service during the Cold War, stationed in Germany as part of NATO’s forward defense. The unit continued to adapt and modernize, contributing to various training and operational missions until its inactivation in the late 20th century.
Historical Facts
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World War II Origins: The 2nd Battalion, 83rd Field Artillery Regiment (FA) was originally constituted in 1917, but it gained prominence during World War II, providing artillery support for U.S. Army operations in Europe.
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Normandy Invasion: The 83rd FA played a critical role in the Normandy Campaign following D-Day, delivering heavy fire support as the Allies pushed inland from the beaches.
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Cold War Deployment: During the Cold War, the unit was stationed in Germany as part of the U.S. Army’s forward-deployed forces, prepared to respond to any Warsaw Pact aggression.
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Vietnam War Service: The 2nd Battalion, 83rd FA was deployed to Vietnam in 1966, where it provided invaluable artillery support during major operations, including the Tet Offensive.
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Self-Propelled Artillery: The battalion was equipped with the M110 8-inch self-propelled howitzer in Vietnam, giving it a significant firepower advantage and mobility compared to towed artillery units.
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Distinguished Unit Citations: Elements of the 83rd FA have received multiple commendations and unit citations for their bravery and effectiveness in combat across several conflicts.
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HHB - Headquarters and Headquarters Battery: The HHB provided crucial command, control, and logistical support, ensuring the battalion’s operational effectiveness in both peacetime and combat.
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Legacy in Europe: After Vietnam, the battalion returned to Europe, where it continued to serve as part of NATO’s artillery forces until its deactivation in the early 1990s.
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Veterans' Reunions: Former members of the 2nd Battalion, 83rd FA, including HHB, regularly hold reunions and maintain a strong network for sharing memories and honoring their service.
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Unit Motto and Symbolism: The 83rd FA Regiment's motto, “We Will Always Be There,” reflects its commitment to providing firepower wherever and whenever needed, a tradition carried by the HHB as the battalion’s nerve center.
