At 0136 hours on 15 June 1919, the 82nd Field Artillery regiment (minus Service Company) left Fort Bliss and headed toward El Paso to occupy pre-planned firing positions. From this action, the unit derives its distinctive unit insignia depicting a black artillery shell and the wavy white background symbolizing the first shot across the Rio Grande by "A" Battery, 1st Battalion, 82nd Field Artillery. The motto "Can and Will" was also given to reflect their spirit steeped in traditions of men doing what needs to be done regardless of the obstacles to be overcome.