About this Unit
The 3rd Tank Battalion was activated on 16 September 1942 at Camp Pendleton, California, as part of the 3rd Marine Division. The battalion saw significant action in World War II, participating in the battles of Bougainville, Guam, and Iwo Jima, where its armored units provided vital support to infantry operations. After the war, the unit was deactivated and reactivated several times, serving with distinction during the Vietnam War, including operations in Da Nang and Quang Tri. The battalion remained an essential element of the Marine Corps' armored capabilities until its deactivation in 1992.
Historical Facts
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Formation and Early Years: The 3rd Tank Battalion was activated on 16 September 1942 at Camp Pendleton, California, as part of the rapid expansion of U.S. armored forces during World War II.
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World War II Service: The battalion played a key role in the Pacific Theater, participating in major campaigns such as Bougainville, Guam, and Iwo Jima, supporting Marine infantry with M4 Sherman tanks.
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Iwo Jima Heroics: During the Battle of Iwo Jima, tanks from the 3rd Tank Battalion were instrumental in breaking through Japanese defenses, and many tanks braved intense fire to support the iconic flag raising on Mount Suribachi.
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Korean War Standby: Although the battalion was not deployed as a unit during the Korean War, many of its Marines served as replacements in other tank units.
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Vietnam War Operations: The battalion was sent to Vietnam in March 1965, becoming the first U.S. tank battalion deployed there, and participated in numerous operations including Operation Starlite and Operation Hastings.
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‘The Iron Horse’ Nickname: The 3rd Tank Battalion earned the nickname "The Iron Horse" for its reliability, mobility, and heavy firepower during combat operations.
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Gulf War Actions: Elements of the battalion were deployed during Operation Desert Storm in 1991, where they provided armored support in breaching Iraqi defenses.
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Unit Insignia: The battalion's distinctive insignia features a black tank tread on a scarlet background, symbolizing its armored heritage and Marine Corps colors.
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Deactivation and Reactivation: The battalion was deactivated in 1992 after the Gulf War drawdown but was briefly reactivated in the early 2000s before final deactivation.
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Legacy and Honors: The 3rd Tank Battalion is highly respected in the Marine Corps, having earned multiple Presidential Unit Citations and campaign streamers for its combat achievements throughout its history.
