What are artillery men called?

Who Are the Soldiers Behind the Big Guns?

When you think of soldiers operating heavy artillery, the term cannoneer might not immediately come to mind—but it should. Dating back to the 16th century, “cannoneer” has long described the skilled troops responsible for handling cannons on the battlefield. While warfare has evolved dramatically since then, the title has endured in various forms.

Today, in the United States Army, these soldiers are officially known by a few different terms. The modern designation is 13B, short for “thirteen bravo,” which stands for the Military Occupational Specialty (M.O.S.) code assigned to cannon crewmembers. But in the field, among peers and in tradition, they’re often still called cannoneers.

These soldiers are the backbone of field artillery units, operating powerful howitzers like the M777 and M109. Their job demands precision, teamwork, and a deep understanding of ballistics, communication, and timing. From setting up the gun to loading and firing under command, every move is coordinated and rehearsed to perfection.

Beyond the technical role, being a cannoneer carries a sense of legacy. The term connects today’s soldiers to centuries of military history—from the cannon crews of Napoleonic wars to the artillery units that helped turn the tide in modern conflicts. It’s a nod to resilience, skill, and the thunderous power they command.

So, whether you call them 13Bs, cannon crewmembers, or cannoneers, these soldiers play a crucial role in supporting ground operations. They may not always be in the front lines, but their presence is felt—and heard—miles away.