About this Unit
The 1st Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment (1/14th Marines) was a reserve artillery battalion of the United States Marine Corps, first activated during World War II. The unit distinguished itself in the Pacific Theater, supporting major campaigns such as the Battle of Iwo Jima, where its accurate and sustained firepower proved vital to the success of Marine infantry assaults. After the war, 1/14th Marines was deactivated and reactivated several times, serving as a key reserve artillery asset during the Cold War and in the Global War on Terror. The battalion's final deactivation occurred in 2017, as part of a broader restructuring of Marine Corps reserve artillery forces.
Historical Facts
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Origins in World War II: The 1st Battalion, 14th Marines (1/14) was first activated on March 1, 1943, at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, to provide artillery support to the 4th Marine Division during World War II.
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Pivotal Role in Pacific Campaigns: 1/14th Marines participated in key Pacific battles, including Kwajalein, Saipan, Tinian, and Iwo Jima, delivering vital artillery fire in support of infantry advances.
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Barrage at Iwo Jima: During the Battle of Iwo Jima, 1/14th Marines fired thousands of rounds in support of the assault on Mount Suribachi, helping suppress Japanese defenses and enabling the iconic flag-raising.
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Deactivation and Reactivation: After World War II, the battalion was deactivated in November 1945 but reactivated in 1962 as part of the Marine Corps Reserve, reflecting the cyclical nature of military force structure.
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Cold War Reserve Force: As a reserve artillery unit, 1/14th Marines trained regularly to maintain readiness for rapid deployment during the Cold War, supporting major exercises and contingency operations.
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Operation Desert Storm Activation: In 1991, elements of 1/14th Marines were activated for Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm, providing artillery support and reinforcing active-duty Marine units.
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Global War on Terror Deployments: Following 9/11, 1/14th Marines supplied artillery and provisional rifle companies to operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, demonstrating the adaptability of reserve units.
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Innovative Use of Artillery: 1/14th Marines have been known for employing creative artillery tactics, such as rapid displacement and direct fire against enemy positions in urban environments.
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Motto and Legacy: The battalion’s motto, "Steel on Target," reflects its dedication to precision and effectiveness, earning a reputation among Marines for reliable and accurate fire support.
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Recent Reorganization: In 2015, as part of a broader Marine Corps Reserve artillery restructuring, 1/14th Marines was deactivated, and its lineage transferred to other units, but its history and honors remain an important part of Marine Corps heritage.
