1ST BATTALION, 12TH MARINES

• World War II Activation: The 1st Battalion, 12th Marines (1/12) was activated on September 1, 1942, at San Diego, California, as part of the 3rd Marine Division during World War II. • Pacific Theater Campaigns: During WWII, 1/12 participated in major Pacific battles, including Bougainville, Guam, and Iwo Jima, providing crucial artillery support. • Deactivation and Reactivation: After WWII, the battalion was deactivated in December 1945, but reactivated on January 1, 1952, at Camp Pendleton, California, due to the Korean War. • Vietnam War Service: 1/12 deployed to Vietnam in 1965, supporting Marine infantry units in major operations such as Operation Starlite and Operation Hastings. • Nickname: The battalion has been affectionately referred to as "The Kings of Battle" for their artillery prowess. • Garrison in Hawaii: Since 1971, 1/12 has been based at Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Kaneohe Bay, serving as the primary artillery support for the 3rd Marine Regiment. • Modern Deployments: 1/12 has deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, providing artillery and provisional rifle company support. • Provisional Rifle Companies: Uniquely, 1/12 frequently deploys its batteries as provisional rifle companies, demonstrating Marine artillery flexibility. • Humanitarian Missions: 1/12 has participated in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions in the Pacific, including support after Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines. • Unit Motto: The battalion’s motto is "On Time, On Target, Never Quit," reflecting their commitment to precision and perseverance.