About this Unit
The 1st Tank Battalion, activated on 1 November 1941, is a storied armored unit of the United States Marine Corps. The battalion distinguished itself during World War II, notably in battles such as Guadalcanal, Tarawa, Saipan, and Iwo Jima, providing critical armored support to Marine infantry. Throughout the Korean War, the battalion played a vital role in major engagements, including the Battle of Inchon and the Chosin Reservoir campaign. In more recent history, 1st Tank Battalion participated in Operations Desert Storm, Iraqi Freedom, and Enduring Freedom, upholding its legacy as a formidable armored force before its deactivation in 2021.
Historical Facts
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Historic Activation: The 1st Tank Battalion was activated on 1 November 1941 at Camp Elliott, San Diego, California, just before the United States entered World War II.
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World War II Service: The battalion fought heroically in the Pacific Theater, participating in major campaigns such as Guadalcanal, Eastern New Guinea, Cape Gloucester, Peleliu, and Okinawa.
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Peleliu Beach Landing: At the Battle of Peleliu, 1st Tank Battalion tanks were fitted with improvised wooden planks to avoid getting stuck in coral reefs during the amphibious assault.
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Korean War Contributions: The battalion saw heavy combat in Korea, supporting Marine infantry at the Pusan Perimeter, Inchon, Seoul, and the Chosin Reservoir.
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Chosin Reservoir Heroics: During the Chosin Reservoir campaign, the battalion played a key role in the "fighting withdrawal," helping evacuate thousands of Marines under extreme conditions.
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Cold War and Beyond: 1st Tank Battalion remained a vital armored force during the Cold War, training and deploying as part of the 1st Marine Division.
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Operation Desert Storm: The battalion was among the first Marine units to cross into Kuwait in 1991, leading the way with their M60A1 tanks during the liberation of Kuwait.
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Transition to M1 Abrams: In the early 1990s, the battalion upgraded from older M60A1 tanks to the modern M1A1 Abrams main battle tank, dramatically increasing its firepower and protection.
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Global War on Terror: 1st Tank Battalion deployed multiple times in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, providing armored support and security.
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Deactivation: As part of the Marine Corps’ Force Design 2030 plan, the 1st Tank Battalion was deactivated on 29 July 2020, ending nearly 80 years of distinguished service.
