About this Unit
The 1st Battalion, 26th Marines (1/26th Marines) is a storied infantry battalion of the United States Marine Corps. Activated during World War II in 1944, the unit saw its first major combat on Iwo Jima, contributing significantly to the island’s capture. Reactivated for the Vietnam War, 1/26th Marines participated in several key operations, including the siege of Khe Sanh in 1968, where the battalion played a vital defensive role. Over its history, 1/26th Marines has demonstrated valor and resilience in some of the Marine Corps’ most challenging battles before its eventual deactivation.
Historical Facts
•
Founding and Designation: The 1st Battalion, 26th Marines (1/26) was activated on 1 March 1966 at Camp Pendleton, California, as part of the rapid expansion of the Marine Corps during the Vietnam War.
•
Vietnam War Service: 1/26 served extensively in Vietnam, participating in major operations including Operation Prairie, Operation Kingfisher, and the legendary Battle of Khe Sanh.
•
Battle of Khe Sanh: The battalion played a critical role in the 77-day siege at Khe Sanh in 1968, defending Hill 881 South and withstanding intense North Vietnamese assaults and artillery barrages.
•
Presidential Unit Citation: For its extraordinary heroism at Khe Sanh, 1/26 received the Presidential Unit Citation, one of the highest unit awards in the U.S. military.
•
First Marine on the Hill: During the battle for Hill 881 South, Private First Class James Anderson Jr. of 1/26 became the first African American Marine awarded the Medal of Honor for heroism after sacrificing himself to save his fellow Marines.
•
Continuous Combat: 1/26 is known for its extended periods of frontline combat in Vietnam, often operating in harsh terrain and facing determined enemy forces, earning a reputation for toughness and resilience.
•
Deactivation and Reactivation: The battalion was deactivated after the Vietnam War but has been reactivated for various purposes, including service as a security force battalion at the U.S. Naval Academy.
•
Legacy and Memorials: Veterans of 1/26 have held reunions and worked to preserve the unit's legacy, and the battalion is honored at the National Museum of the Marine Corps and at memorials dedicated to the Battle of Khe Sanh.
•
Nickname: The battalion is sometimes referred to as "First Battalion, 26th Marines (Blue Spaders)"—though "Blue Spaders" is more commonly associated with the U.S. Army’s 26th Infantry Regiment, the 1/26 Marines are recognized for their own distinct legacy.
•
Notable Alumni: Several members of 1/26 went on to distinguished military or civilian careers, with the battalion's leadership and combat experience shaping many future leaders of the Marine Corps.
