2nd Amphibious Assault Battalion

• Origins in World War II: The 2nd Amphibious Assault Battalion traces its lineage to World War II, originally designated as the 2nd Amphibian Tractor Battalion, activated on 18 February 1942 at Camp Elliott, San Diego, California. • Key Role at Tarawa: The battalion played a critical role in the Battle of Tarawa (November 1943), using amphibious tractors (LVTs) to carry Marines over coral reefs and directly onto the heavily defended beaches. • Nickname - "The Iron Horse": The unit earned the nickname "The Iron Horse Battalion" due to their rugged vehicles and resilience in amphibious assaults throughout the Pacific campaigns. • Iwo Jima Operations: During the Battle of Iwo Jima, the battalion’s amphibious tractors were instrumental in ferrying Marines and supplies ashore, often under heavy enemy fire. • Korean War Service: Re-designated as the 2nd Amphibian Tractor Battalion, the unit was involved in amphibious operations and training exercises during the Korean War era. • Modernization: The battalion has operated several generations of amphibious vehicles, from the original LVTs to the modern Assault Amphibious Vehicle (AAV7A1), and is transitioning to the Amphibious Combat Vehicle (ACV). • Humanitarian Missions: The 2nd AABn has supported numerous humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations, including hurricane response missions along the US East Coast. • Operation Desert Storm: The battalion participated in the 1991 liberation of Kuwait, providing amphibious transport and fire support for Marine forces during Operation Desert Storm. • Iraq and Afghanistan Deployments: Elements of the battalion have deployed to both Iraq and Afghanistan, adapting amphibious tactics to inland environments and supporting counterinsurgency operations. • Permanent Base at Camp Lejeune: The 2nd Amphibious Assault Battalion is permanently stationed at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, serving as a vital component of the II Marine Expeditionary Force.