Brief History of the Unit's Service in Vietnam

The 7th Battalion 13th Artillery was formed at Fort Irwin, California in July, 1966.  They traveled to Vietnam on the USNS Barrett, departing San Diego on October 8, 1966, arriving on October 28 at the port of Qui Nhon.  They proceeded to LZ Hammond and the 1st Air Cavalry Division.    As an independent battalion in the 41st Artillery Group, 1st Field Force, they operated mainly in the Central Highlands.  Their three 6 gun batteries of 105mm howitzers were experienced in airmobile operations supporting the 1st Air Cav, the 4th Division, the 173 Airborne Brigade, plus Special Forces, ARVN and ROK troops.  By the time they stood down in October, 1970 they had fired over 1 million rounds and lost 13 soldiers killed in action.  They fought in 11 campaigns and earned the Meritorious Unit Commendation and the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross Unit Citation with Palm.