About this Unit
The 1st Battalion, 24th Marines (1/24), is a distinguished infantry battalion within the 24th Marine Regiment, part of the 4th Marine Division of the United States Marine Corps Reserve. Activated during World War II, the battalion participated in key Pacific campaigns, including the fierce battles of Saipan, Tinian, and Iwo Jima. Over the decades, 1/24 has supported numerous operations and training exercises, providing ready reservist forces for national defense and overseas contingencies. In the Global War on Terror, the battalion notably deployed to Iraq, playing a crucial role in security and stability operations. Today, 1/24 continues its proud legacy, training and preparing Marines for service at home and abroad.
Historical Facts
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Origins in World War II: The 1st Battalion, 24th Marines (1/24) was activated on March 26, 1943, as part of the 4th Marine Division, seeing its first major action in the Pacific Theater during World War II.
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Battle of Roi-Namur: 1/24 participated in the assault on Roi-Namur in the Marshall Islands in February 1944, marking its combat debut in one of the first American offensive operations in the Central Pacific.
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Saipan and Tinian Campaigns: The battalion played a key role in the invasions of Saipan and Tinian, facing fierce Japanese resistance and contributing to the eventual capture of the islands in mid-1944.
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Iwo Jima Heroics: During the Battle of Iwo Jima in 1945, 1/24 fought in some of the bloodiest combat of the Pacific War, with Marines displaying extraordinary bravery amidst intense enemy fire and difficult terrain.
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Post-WWII Deactivation and Reactivation: After World War II, 1/24 was deactivated in 1945 but later reactivated as a Marine Corps Reserve unit, continuing its legacy of service.
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Cold War and Domestic Service: As a reserve unit, 1/24 was called upon for various training and support roles during the Cold War, including disaster relief and civil defense missions within the United States.
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Operation Desert Storm: Elements of the battalion were activated in support of Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm in 1990-1991, providing vital personnel and support to active-duty Marine units.
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Operation Iraqi Freedom: 1/24 was activated for Operation Iraqi Freedom and deployed to Iraq in 2006-2007, conducting counterinsurgency operations in the volatile city of Fallujah and earning high praise for its professionalism and effectiveness.
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Decorations and Honors: The battalion has received multiple unit commendations and campaign streamers, including the Presidential Unit Citation and Navy Unit Commendation, in recognition of its valor and sacrifice.
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Citizen-Marines Tradition: As a Marine Corps Reserve unit, 1/24 is known for its "Citizen-Marines"—men and women who balance civilian careers with rigorous military training and deployment, embodying the Marine ethos both at home and abroad.
