About this Unit
The 2nd Battalion, 12th Marines (2/12) is an artillery battalion of the United States Marine Corps, originally activated in 1942 during World War II. The battalion participated in key Pacific campaigns, including the battles of Guadalcanal, Saipan, Tinian, and Okinawa, providing vital fire support for Marine infantry units. After the war, 2/12 was deactivated and reactivated multiple times, serving in conflicts such as the Vietnam War, where it supported operations throughout I Corps. In recent decades, 2/12 has continued to deploy in support of global operations, maintaining readiness as part of the 3rd Marine Division based in Okinawa, Japan.
Historical Facts
•
Activation and World War II Origins: The 2nd Battalion, 12th Marines (2/12) was activated on 1 September 1942 at Camp Elliott, San Diego, California, as part of the 3rd Marine Division. It was formed to provide artillery support during World War II.
•
Combat in the Pacific Theater: During World War II, 2/12 participated in several major Pacific campaigns, including Bougainville, Guam, and Iwo Jima, providing crucial fire support for infantry assaults.
•
Deactivation and Reactivation: The battalion was deactivated after World War II in December 1945 but was reactivated on 7 January 1952 at Camp Pendleton, California, as tensions rose during the Korean War era.
•
Vietnam War Deployments: 2/12 was deployed to Vietnam in 1965 and took part in numerous operations, including Operation Starlite and Operation Hastings, supporting Marine infantry units in intense combat.
•
Fire Support Innovations: During Vietnam, 2/12 became known for innovative artillery tactics, including using their howitzers in direct-fire roles during base defense and close-in support.
•
Relocations Across the Pacific: Over its history, 2/12 moved several times, with significant postings in Hawaii, Okinawa, and Camp Pendleton, reflecting the Marine Corps’ shifting focus in the Pacific region.
•
Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm: Elements of 2/12 deployed to the Middle East in 1990-1991 as part of the 1st Marine Expeditionary Brigade, providing artillery support during the liberation of Kuwait.
•
Global War on Terror: Since 2001, 2/12 Marines have deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom (Afghanistan), adapting to both traditional and counterinsurgency artillery roles.
•
“The Proud and the Few” Motto: The battalion is known by its nickname and motto, “The Proud and the Few,” exemplifying its long-standing tradition of excellence and esprit de corps.
•
Modern Day Role: Today, 2/12 is based at Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Kaneohe Bay, and serves as the principal artillery unit supporting the 3rd Marine Littoral Regiment, capable of rapid deployment throughout the Indo-Pacific.
