HHB220

• HHB 2-20th Field Artillery: The designation "HHB 220" typically refers to the Headquarters and Headquarters Battery, 2nd Battalion, 20th Field Artillery Regiment, a unit with a distinguished lineage in the U.S. Army. • Vietnam War Service: 2-20th FA ("2-20 ARA") was one of the first units to deploy the AH-1G Cobra gunship in combat, providing aerial rocket artillery support during the Vietnam War. • "Blue Max" Callsign: The battalion earned the nickname "Blue Max," inspired by the German military decoration Pour le Mérite, and became famous for its rapid-fire support to ground troops in Vietnam. • Heavy Firepower: During Vietnam, the unit was equipped with UH-1B and AH-1G helicopters armed with 2.75-inch rockets, enabling mobile and devastating firepower for infantry units. • First Aerial Artillery Battalion: 2-20th was the first fully operational Aerial Rocket Artillery Battalion in the U.S. Army, pioneering tactics that influenced Army Aviation doctrine. • Gulf War Deployment: The 2-20th FA also served in Operation Desert Storm, supporting coalition forces with advanced artillery fire and logistics. • Modernization: In the 21st century, the battalion has transitioned to using the M270 Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS), extending its reach and precision strike capabilities. • Decorations: The unit has earned several commendations, including the Valorous Unit Award and Meritorious Unit Commendation, reflecting its outstanding combat performance. • Training Excellence: HHB 2-20th FA often serves as a model headquarters element, responsible for planning and coordinating complex live-fire exercises at home and during deployments. • Legacy of Innovation: The battalion’s unique history as both an aerial and ground artillery unit embodies the evolution of Army fire support, from Vietnam-era helicopter gunships to today’s advanced rocket artillery systems.