Fort Riley
Photo Courtesy of Fort Riley
The 1st Infantry Division proudly commemorates the 250th birthday of the 1st Battalion, 5th Field Artillery Regiment — known across generations as “Hamilton’s Own” — the oldest regular Army unit in continuous active service. The unit is currently deployed to the U. S. Army Europe command region.
Founded on January 6, 1776, by a young artillery captain named Alexander Hamilton, the unit began as the New York Provincial Company of Artillery. With just two six-pound guns and 25 Soldiers, Hamilton led his fledgling company across the Delaware River alongside Gen. George Washington, firing some of the first artillery shots that helped secure early American victories at Trenton and Princeton.
Over the last two and a half centuries, the unit has been reorganized, redesignated, and deployed across nearly every major conflict in American history — from the War of 1812, the Mexican War, and the Civil War, to World War I, World War II, Vietnam, Desert Storm, and multiple deployments to Iraq. Today, the battalion continues its distinguished service as part of the 1st Infantry Division at Fort Riley.
“Hamilton’s Own is more than a battalion — it is a living piece of American history,” said leaders of the 1st Infantry Division. “For 250 years, its Soldiers have carried forward a legacy of courage, discipline, and innovation that began with one of our nation’s Founding Fathers.”
The battalion’s lineage includes extraordinary moments of heroism, including the actions of Lt. Col. Charles C. Rogers, who received the Medal of Honor for leading the defense of Fire Base Rita during a massive enemy assault in Vietnam in 1968.
Today, “Hamilton’s Own” continues to train and operate with the same spirit that has defined it since the Revolution — a commitment to readiness, precision, and service to the nation.
“The anniversary ceremony honored generations of Redlegs whose dedication and sacrifice have shaped both the battalion’s proud traditions and the freedoms enjoyed by the Nation today,” said Major Joshua Henry, executive officer, 1st Battalion, 5th Artillery.
“From revolutionary beginnings to today’s technologically advanced force, 1-5 FA remains a symbol of excellence and resilience. As the unit looks toward the future, leaders reaffirmed their commitment to preserving its storied heritage while training the next generation of Artillery professionals to serve with honor for centuries to come.”
As part of the 250th birthday observance, the 1st Infantry Division is sharing historical highlights, photos, and stories across its official social media platforms to help the community connect with the unit’s remarkable heritage.
Community members can follow and join the celebration on the division’s official Facebook and Instagram pages: @1stInfantryDivision.
