About this Unit
The 6th Communication Battalion, part of the United States Marine Corps Reserve, was activated on October 1, 1951, in Brooklyn, New York. The battalion provides critical communications support to Marine Corps forces, ensuring effective command and control in both peacetime and during operations. Over the decades, the unit has supported numerous exercises and real-world missions, including deployments in support of Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. Renowned for its technical expertise and readiness, the 6th Communication Battalion continues to play a vital role in enabling Marine Corps operations worldwide.
Historical Facts
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Formation and Heritage: The 6th Communication Battalion (6th Comm Bn) is a United States Marine Corps Reserve communications unit, activated in 1957, and has provided essential command and control communications for over six decades.
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Home Base: The battalion is headquartered at Floyd Bennett Field in Brooklyn, New York, a historic former naval air station and now part of the Gateway National Recreation Area.
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Desert Storm Deployment: 6th Comm Bn was mobilized during Operation Desert Storm in 1990-1991, supporting Marine Forces in Southwest Asia with vital communication support.
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9/11 Response: After the September 11, 2001 attacks, Marines from the battalion volunteered in the rescue and recovery efforts at Ground Zero, providing both manpower and technical communications assistance.
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Operation Iraqi Freedom: Elements of the battalion have been activated and deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom, providing secure and reliable communications in combat zones.
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Annual Toys for Tots Drive: 6th Comm Bn is known for its deep community involvement, particularly through organizing the annual Toys for Tots drive in New York City, collecting thousands of toys for children in need.
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Bronx Veterans Day Parade: The unit regularly participates in the Bronx Veterans Day Parade and other civic ceremonies, demonstrating their commitment to both military and civilian communities.
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Cutting-edge Technology: The battalion is equipped and trained in advanced communications systems, including satellite, radio, and digital networks, ensuring Marine commanders can communicate anywhere in the world.
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Reserve and Active Integration: As a reserve unit, 6th Comm Bn regularly integrates with active-duty Marine units during major exercises, ensuring seamless interoperability between components.
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Legacy of Leadership: Many Marines who served in 6th Comm Bn have gone on to distinguished careers in both the military and civilian sectors, citing the battalion's high standards and esprit de corps as foundational to their success.
