About this Unit
The 2nd Battalion, 8th Marines (2/8), known as "America's Battalion," was activated on April 1, 1940, at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. During World War II, the battalion participated in major campaigns including Guadalcanal, Tarawa, Saipan, Tinian, and Okinawa. In subsequent decades, 2/8 deployed to numerous hotspots, including Lebanon in 1958, the Persian Gulf during Operation Desert Shield/Storm, and the Global War on Terror in Iraq and Afghanistan. The battalion has built a distinguished reputation for its combat effectiveness and readiness, serving as a vital component of the 2nd Marine Division.
Historical Facts
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Long-standing Legacy: The 2nd Battalion, 8th Marines (2/8) was initially activated on April 1, 1940, at San Diego, California, making it one of the older active battalions in the Marine Corps.
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World War II Service: 2/8 participated in some of the fiercest battles of WWII, including Guadalcanal, Tarawa, Saipan, Tinian, and Okinawa. These operations were crucial in the Pacific campaign.
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Tarawa Heroism: During the Battle of Tarawa in 1943, 2/8 Marines faced extreme resistance and heavy casualties, but their actions were pivotal in capturing the island. The battalion earned a Presidential Unit Citation for its valor.
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Nickname: 2/8 is known as "America’s Battalion," a nickname earned through its service in nearly every major conflict since WWII.
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Cuban Missile Crisis: In October 1962, 2/8 was deployed during the Cuban Missile Crisis as part of the U.S. response to the Soviet missile threat, demonstrating the battalion’s rapid-response capabilities.
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Operation Desert Storm: Elements of 2/8 deployed to Southwest Asia in support of Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm in 1990-1991, serving as part of the multinational coalition to liberate Kuwait.
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Somalia and Operation Restore Hope: 2/8 participated in humanitarian and peacekeeping operations in Somalia in 1993, helping to provide aid and restore order during a period of intense civil unrest and famine.
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Iraq and Afghanistan Deployments: 2/8 was deployed multiple times to both Iraq and Afghanistan during the Global War on Terror, conducting combat operations in Fallujah, Ramadi, Helmand Province, and other hotspots.
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Humanitarian Missions: In addition to combat, 2/8 has been involved in humanitarian missions, such as disaster relief in Haiti following the devastating 2010 earthquake, providing security and aid distribution.
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Highly Decorated Unit: 2/8 Marines have received numerous awards and citations for valor and meritorious service, including several Presidential Unit Citations, Navy Unit Commendations, and campaign streamers.
