About this Unit
The 2nd Battalion, 27th Marines (2/27), was activated during World War II as part of the 5th Marine Division of the United States Marine Corps. The battalion is most renowned for its participation in the Battle of Iwo Jima in 1945, where it played a critical role in the intense fighting to capture Mount Suribachi and secure the island. After World War II, the battalion was deactivated, but it was later reactivated and served during the Vietnam War, engaging in several major operations, including Operation Allen Brook and Operation Oklahoma Hills. Throughout its history, 2/27 has distinguished itself with valor and professionalism in some of the Marine Corps’ most challenging campaigns.
Historical Facts
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Origins in World War II: The 2nd Battalion, 27th Marines (2/27) was originally activated in January 1944 at Camp Pendleton, California, as part of the 5th Marine Division in preparation for combat in the Pacific Theater of World War II.
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Battle of Iwo Jima: 2/27 played a significant role in the Battle of Iwo Jima (February–March 1945), enduring heavy combat and suffering substantial casualties while helping secure the island’s strategic airfields.
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Deactivation after WWII: Following the end of World War II, 2/27 was deactivated in January 1946 as part of the postwar reduction of U.S. military forces.
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Vietnam War Reactivation: 2/27 was reactivated in January 1966 and assigned to the 5th Marine Division. The unit deployed to Vietnam in 1968, where it participated in major combat operations.
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Tet Offensive Operations: During the 1968 Tet Offensive, 2/27 engaged in fierce fighting, including the defense of the Da Nang area and operations in the Quảng Nam and Quảng Trị provinces.
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Operation Allen Brook: In 1968, 2/27 took part in Operation Allen Brook, a major clearing operation on Go Noi Island, which resulted in heavy casualties but was instrumental in disrupting enemy activities.
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Medal of Honor Recipient: Private First Class Robert C. Burke of 2/27 was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions during Operation Allen Brook in May 1968.
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Deactivation and Reactivation Cycles: The battalion has been deactivated and reactivated several times throughout its history, reflecting the changing needs of the U.S. Marine Corps.
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Recent Deployments: In the 21st century, 2/27 has deployed in support of the Global War on Terror, including operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, demonstrating its ongoing role in modern conflicts.
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Motto and Legacy: The battalion’s motto is "Second to None," reflecting its proud tradition of bravery, sacrifice, and service in some of the most challenging operations in Marine Corps history.
