About this Unit
The 6th Gun Battalion, 12th Artillery was activated during the height of the Cold War to provide direct and general artillery support for U.S. Army maneuver units. Initially equipped with towed 155mm howitzers, the battalion participated in numerous field exercises, honing its skills in both conventional and nuclear artillery missions. While not deployed in major combat operations, the unit played a crucial role in NATO training exercises and joint force readiness during tense periods in Europe. The battalion was eventually inactivated as part of a broader Army reorganization reflecting changing strategic priorities.
Historical Facts
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Origins and Lineage: The 6th Gun Battalion, 12th Marines (6th Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment) traces its roots back to World War II, when the 12th Marines was activated as the artillery regiment of the 3rd Marine Division.
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Pacific Theater Service: During World War II, the 12th Marines, including its battalions, participated in several key Pacific campaigns, including Bougainville, Guam, and Iwo Jima, providing crucial artillery support.
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Cold War Era: After WWII, the battalion was periodically deactivated and reactivated, reflecting the changing needs of the Marine Corps during the Cold War and Korean War periods.
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Vietnam War Involvement: Elements of the 12th Marines, including gun battalions, deployed to Vietnam, providing fire support for Marine and allied ground forces in the I Corps Tactical Zone.
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Modernization: The battalion has operated various artillery pieces over the decades, including the legendary M101 105mm howitzer, the M198 155mm howitzer, and currently the M777 lightweight 155mm howitzer.
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Okinawa Stationing: The 6th Battalion, 12th Marines has been stationed at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, as part of the United States’ forward-deployed forces in the Pacific, supporting regional security.
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Humanitarian Missions: Marines from the battalion have participated in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations throughout the Asia-Pacific region, including responses to typhoons and earthquakes.
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Nickname and Motto: The battalion is often referred to as the “Ready Six,” reflecting its rapid-response capability and readiness ethos.
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Training and Exercises: 6th Battalion, 12th Marines regularly takes part in multinational training exercises such as Cobra Gold (Thailand) and Balikatan (Philippines), enhancing interoperability with allied forces.
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Symbolism: The unit insignia features crossed cannons symbolizing artillery, and often includes the regiment’s motto, “Honor, Fidelity, Valor,” reflecting the proud traditions of Marine artillerymen.
