1st Battalion 4th Marines, Delta co. 3rd Mar Div

• Origin and Formation: The 1st Battalion, 4th Marines (1/4) was originally activated in April 1914, making it one of the oldest battalions in the Marine Corps. Delta Company is a key rifle company within the battalion. • China Marines: The unit has a storied past as part of the "China Marines," serving in Peking and Shanghai during the interwar years to protect American interests in China. • World War II Valor: 1/4 played a critical role in the Pacific, fighting at battles such as Guadalcanal, New Britain, Peleliu, and Okinawa, with Delta Company contributing to the fierce combat and earning numerous unit citations. • Prisoners of War: In 1942, after the fall of Corregidor in the Philippines, the entire 4th Marine Regiment, including elements that would become 1/4, was captured by Japanese forces and spent the remainder of WWII as POWs. • Vietnam War: 1/4, including Delta Company, was heavily engaged in Vietnam from 1965 to 1971, participating in operations like Hastings, Prairie, and the defense of Khe Sanh. • Operation Desert Storm: Delta Company and the rest of 1/4 were deployed to the Persian Gulf in 1990–91, participating in combat operations to liberate Kuwait from Iraqi occupation. • “China Marines” Legacy: The battalion’s nickname, “China Marines,” is still used today, reflecting its unique overseas heritage and fostering unit pride. • Global Deployments: 1/4 and Delta Company have deployed worldwide, including peacekeeping missions in Lebanon, Somalia, and humanitarian missions after disasters in Asia and the Pacific. • Iraq and Afghanistan: In the 21st century, 1/4 and Delta Company served multiple combat tours in both Iraq and Afghanistan, conducting counterinsurgency, security, and nation-building operations. • Notable Alumni: The battalion has produced several decorated Marines, including Medal of Honor recipients and influential leaders, who served in Delta Company and have contributed to Marine Corps history and tradition.