2:27th Marines

• 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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.