About this Unit
The 1st Battalion, 5th Marines (1/5), known as "Geronimo," is one of the most decorated infantry battalions in the United States Marine Corps. Activated in 1917, it earned distinction during World War I at Belleau Wood and Soissons. The battalion saw extensive combat in World War II, Korea, and Vietnam, participating in key operations such as Guadalcanal, Peleliu, and Hue City. In the 21st century, 1/5 has deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan, continuing its legacy of excellence and valor in modern conflicts.
Historical Facts
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World War I Origins: The 1st Battalion, 5th Marines (1/5) was activated in 1917 at Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and quickly deployed to France as part of the American Expeditionary Force.
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Belleau Wood Heroes: 1/5 played a pivotal role in the Battle of Belleau Wood in June 1918, earning the nickname "Devil Dogs" from their German adversaries.
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Decorations: The battalion was awarded the French Croix de Guerre with two palms and one gilt star for its valor in World War I.
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Guadalcanal Landing: 1/5 was among the first U.S. Marine units to land at Guadalcanal in August 1942, beginning the first major Allied offensive in the Pacific during WWII.
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Battle of Peleliu: In 1944, 1/5 endured fierce combat during the Battle of Peleliu, suffering heavy casualties but ultimately securing the island.
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Korean War Chosin Reservoir: The battalion fought in the legendary Battle of Chosin Reservoir in 1950, executing a fighting withdrawal against overwhelming Chinese forces in freezing conditions.
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Vietnam War Operations: 1/5 participated in numerous major operations, including Operation Hue City in 1968, where it was heavily engaged in urban combat during the Tet Offensive.
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Operation Desert Storm: The battalion was deployed to Saudi Arabia in 1990-1991 and took part in the liberation of Kuwait during Operation Desert Storm.
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Operation Iraqi Freedom: 1/5 was the first Marine battalion to enter Baghdad in April 2003, playing a key role in the initial invasion of Iraq.
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Modern Deployments: In recent years, 1/5 has continued to serve with distinction, deploying to Afghanistan for Operation Enduring Freedom and maintaining readiness as part of the 1st Marine Division at Camp Pendleton, California.
