Arkansas National Guard reactivates Charlie Battery for 142nd Field Artillery Brigade

BENTONVILLE, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) — A brigade in the Arkansas National Guard gained a group of new soldiers as a battery that fought in World War II was reactivated on Sunday.

The Charlie Battery will operate in the 1st battalion of the 142nd Field Artillery Brigade.

The battery was deactivated by the Army in 2011 due to forced structure changes. However, with the support of the community, they have reinstated its duties.

Charlie has a vast history dating back to the 1930s and participated in various campaigns including the liberation of Rome and the assault on Monte Cassino, both of which occurred in 1944.

“It’s a reminder that the community is supporting us. It’s by extension of the community that we’re even able to serve a community that we love and a community that we want to protect,” Battalion Commander Lt. Colonel John Chase said.

Lt. Chase said that the Charlie Battery will add 106 additional personnel, both soldiers and support sustainers to the brigade, along with nine launcher systems.

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