1:14th Marines

• 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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.