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Association History
The idea for an association that would unite the gunners of the newly created Field Artillery Branch resulted from the discussions of Colonel Montgomery M. Macomb, Commander of the 6th Field Artillery, and his Adjutant, Captain William J. Snow. As these two distinguished artillerymen took their early morning rides at Fort Riley, Kansas, they spoke of an organization that would promote the Field Artillery and enhance the professionalism of Artillerymen. Fortunately, these men were not just idle dreamers; they made things happen. Early in the spring of 1907, Captain Snow set out to make the Association a reality.
His first step was to dispatch a circular letter to the 180 regular officers of the Field Artillery, seeking their reaction to his proposal, which included as its principal feature the publication of a branch journal. Although a number of respondents were concerned about financing such a magazine, most officers heartily approved the idea. Captain Snow proceeded and, after a lengthy exchange of correspondence with the War Department, obtained appropriate approval.
Early in 1909, Captain Snow joined a committee including Major John E. McMahon and Captain W.S. McNair to draft a constitution. In a slightly modified form, the constitution was introduced to the Regular Army and National Guard Field Artillery officers attending the summer "Encampment and Maneuvers" at Fort Riley, during the following months. On 7 June 1909, these 86 artillerymen became the charter members of the Association established under the provisions of a constitution that sought:
The purpose of the Association is:
1. To promote the efficiency of the Field Artillery by maintaining its best traditions.
2. To cultivate with the other arms a common understanding of the powers and limitations of each.
3. To foster a feeling of interdependence among the different arms and of hearty cooperation by all.
4. To promote understanding between the regular and militia forces by a closer bond.
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