About this Unit
The 2nd Tank Battalion is a storied armored unit of the United States Marine Corps, first activated on December 1, 1941, at Camp Elliott, California. During World War II, the battalion played a pivotal role in major Pacific campaigns, including battles at Tarawa, Saipan, Tinian, and Okinawa, providing crucial armored support during amphibious assaults. In the decades following, the 2nd Tank Battalion participated in numerous operations, including the Gulf War and the Global War on Terrorism, demonstrating versatility and combat effectiveness. The unit was based at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, until its deactivation in 2021 as part of the Marine Corps' Force Design 2030 initiative.
Historical Facts
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Formation and World War II: The 2nd Tank Battalion was activated on December 20, 1941, at Camp Elliott, San Diego, California, shortly after the attack on Pearl Harbor. It quickly became a key armored unit of the 2nd Marine Division.
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Tarawa Landings: The battalion played a pivotal role during the Battle of Tarawa in November 1943. Its tanks provided crucial fire support for infantry in one of the bloodiest Pacific island assaults of WWII.
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Saipan and Tinian: 2nd Tank Battalion tanks landed with the first assault waves during the battles of Saipan and Tinian in 1944, helping break through Japanese defenses and supporting the rapid advance inland.
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Okinawa Campaign: The battalion participated in the largest amphibious assault in the Pacific Theater—the Battle of Okinawa—where its tanks faced fierce resistance and challenging terrain.
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Post-WWII Service: After WWII, the battalion was deactivated and reactivated several times, reflecting the evolving structure of the Marine Corps during peacetime and the Cold War.
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Korean War Absence: Unlike many Marine units, the 2nd Tank Battalion did not see combat during the Korean War, although its Marines trained and supported other units that deployed.
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Operation Desert Storm: In 1991, the battalion deployed to Saudi Arabia and played a significant combat role during Operation Desert Storm, helping breach Iraqi defensive lines and liberate Kuwait.
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Iraq War Deployments: The battalion deployed multiple times in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, providing armored support for Marines and coalition forces in major battles such as the Battle of Nasiriyah.
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Deactivation: As part of the Marine Corps' Force Design 2030 initiative, the 2nd Tank Battalion was officially deactivated on May 5, 2021, marking the end of Marine Corps tank battalions.
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Legacy and Honors: The battalion earned numerous awards, including Presidential Unit Citations and Navy Unit Commendations. Its lineage and honors continue to be remembered in Marine Corps history and traditions.
