Historic 109th Field Artillery Disbands After 250 Years of Service

The historic 109th Field Artillery of the Pennsylvania Army National Guard will officially disband on Sunday, marking the end of a remarkable 250 years of service. Recognized as one of the oldest military units in the United States, the 109th will transition into the 28th Division Artillery (DIVARTY) while maintaining its headquarters at the Kingston Armory in Wilkes-Barre.

As part of this reorganization, the Nanticoke armory is set to close and will be sold, while the Plymouth armory will be repurposed for the new unit. Major Travis Mueller, public affairs officer for the Pennsylvania Army National Guard, emphasized that this restructuring aims to modernize the 28th Infantry Division, enhancing its capability to meet future missions. He affirmed that the unit’s lineage and honors will continue under the new designation of the 28th Division Artillery.

The 109th Field Artillery’s roots trace back to May 1775, predating the founding of the United States. Originally part of the Connecticut Militia, the unit has a storied history, participating in pivotal conflicts from the Revolutionary War to the War on Terrorism.

A poignant date for the 109th is September 11, which holds dual significance. Following the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, the unit was mobilized for war. Tragically, September 11 also marks the anniversary of a train accident in 1950 that claimed the lives of 33 soldiers and injured nearly 300 more, emphasizing the unit’s long and challenging history.

An official ceremony to commemorate the deactivation of the 109th and the establishment of the 28th DIVARTY is scheduled for September 14, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at the Wilkes-Barre armory.

Rev. Kevin Miller, who served as battalion commander for the 109th, expressed deep pride in his connection to the unit. He noted, “It was one of the greatest honors of my life. We are older than the country itself, originally militia men fighting for independence.” Miller, now a priest serving at St. Padre Pio Parish in Hazleton, reflected on the impact of his service, stating that thoughts of the battalion and its members would accompany him throughout life.

Current soldiers of the 109th have the option to transfer to the new unit or to other assignments within the National Guard. Those whose separation date falls within 90 days of the unit’s inactivation have additional options, including leaving the military entirely.

Retired Sergeant First Class Robert Dick described the 109th as a “historic unit” that has been integral to the identity of the Wyoming Valley. He acknowledged the emotional weight of the unit’s name change, likening it to a beloved sports team undergoing rebranding. “You still love them, but it’s not the same,” he commented.

David Kollar, a retired captain, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the 109th’s significant role in American history. “It’s a proud tradition going back to the Revolutionary War. Few organizations have survived the amount of time the 109th has,” he remarked.

As the 109th Field Artillery concludes its storied legacy, the transition to the 28th DIVARTY represents both an end and a new beginning, ensuring that the unit’s proud heritage will be carried forward into the future.