One of the Nation’s most prestigious National Guard Artillery Battalion’s will officially retire its colors as it reemerges to complete another mission.

The 1st Battalion, 171st Field Artillery (MLRS) was formed in April 1963 and has served its State and Country with honor and distinction. The Casing of the Colors Ceremony is the last step in a process that started in the 2008 reorganization of the unit, as directed by the Department of the Army, from an artillery unit to a Brigade Support Battalion. The Battalion’s outstanding legacy will be carried forward through the colors of the 271st Brigade Support Battalion.

At 11 a.m., on Saturday, August 7, the 1st Battalion 171st Field Artillery (MLRS) colors will officially be cased at the National Guard Armory in Altus. On this date the colors will be forever retired with a ceremony to honor the Battalion’s past accomplishments and heritage. Soldiers who have served in the unit are highly encouraged to be a part of the ceremony and the event is open to the public. Please take the time to join us for this truly honorable and historic event.

The history of the 171st FA insignia printed above displays the deep imbedded roots of our Nation, Oklahoma, and Native American history. The 171st FA insignia renders three arrows symbolizing the unit's three assault landings at Sicily, Naples-Foggia and Southern France. The arrows with the buckskin shield also symbolize Oklahoma's Native American heritage, a depiction of a buckskin shield is found on the State Flag of Oklahoma. The sunburst design, a favorite Native American symbol, alludes to the unit's mission to provide general target acquisition as well as survey and meteorological support to the artillery corps. The sixteen stylized rays symbolize the sixteen battle honors of essential elements of the organization. The fleur-de-lis represents the unit's service in Europe, World War II, and the Taeguk alludes to the organization's participation in the Korean War.