The missions usually included guarding high valued assets, leading the charge during the offensive, and observing the sky for any potential targets. Although the air threat was non-existent in Vietnam, Air Defense Artillery proved to be one of the most valuable and skilled branches during the war. President Richard Nixon ordered the re-deployment of 70,000 troops in 1972 (1993 A Vietnam War Timeline). Among those was 1st Battalion, 44th Air Defense Artillery. During its five years in the combat zone, 1-44 ADA was awarded both the Presidential Unit Citation and the Valorous Unit Citation, becoming one of the Army’s most decorated units at that time. Even until this day, Air Defense Artillery continues to prove its value while forward deployed to combat areas. The branch is responsible for guarding ground forces and high valued assets from Air Breathing Threats and Tactical Ballistic