The 1st Battalion, 377th Field Artillery Regiment, has a distinguished history dating back to its constitution in the Organized Reserves in 1921 as Battery A, 377th Field Artillery, part of the 101st Division. Activated on 16 August 1942 as Battery A, 377th Parachute Field Artillery Battalion, it became an integral component of the 101st Airborne Division during World War II. After rigorous training, the unit deployed to England in October 1943 to prepare for Operation Overlord. On D-Day, 6 June 1944, the battery parachuted into Normandy, where many soldiers initially fought as infantry due to the loss of their howitzers. Notably, on 7 June, Lieutenant Thomas Swirczynski led 33 artillerymen in capturing 130 German soldiers near Hau-des-dunes. The battery was reconstituted and rearmed by 14 June, continuing its support throughout the Normandy campaign.
Following their success in Normandy, the battery executed a second parachute assault on 19 September 1944, providing critical fire support to various parachute infantry regiments. After sustaining operations, the unit moved to Camp Mourmelon, France, in late November for refitting. Post-World War II, the battalion underwent several activations and inactivations, reflecting the evolving needs of the U.S. Army. Notably, it was active during the Vietnam War and later stationed at Fort Campbell with the 101st Airborne Division, as well as at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, with the 18th Field Artillery Brigade and the 82nd Airborne Division.
In the 21st century, the 1st Battalion, 377th Field Artillery Regiment, played a significant role in the Global War on Terror. Equipped with M198 and later M777 155mm howitzers, the battalion deployed to both Iraq and Afghanistan, providing essential artillery support in various operations. The unit's motto, "FIRMITER ET FIDELITER" (Steadfastly and Faithfully), encapsulates its enduring commitment to excellence and service throughout its active years.