2nd battalion:3marine division KMCAS

• Historical Background: The 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marines (2/3), also known as "Island Warriors," was activated on May 1, 1942, at Camp Elliott, San Diego, as part of the 3rd Marine Division. • World War II Operations: 2/3 participated in key battles during WWII, including Bougainville, Guam, and Iwo Jima, earning several unit commendations for bravery and effectiveness. • Korean War Service: Though not directly involved in the Korean War, the battalion’s legacy units contributed to the Marine Corps’ overall efforts during the conflict. • Vietnam War Deployments: 2/3 played a significant role in Vietnam, participating in Operation Starlite—the first major US ground offensive of the war—as well as multiple other operations in the region. • Camp Schwab and KMCAS: The battalion has been based at various locations on Okinawa, including Camp Schwab and the Kadena Marine Corps Air Station (KMCAS), supporting US presence in the Pacific. • Global War on Terror: 2/3 deployed multiple times to Iraq and Afghanistan, participating in operations such as Phantom Fury in Fallujah and enduring tough urban combat. • Humanitarian Missions: The battalion has been involved in disaster relief, most notably providing aid after the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami in Japan as part of Operation Tomodachi. • Nickname and Identity: Known as the "Island Warriors," 2/3’s nickname reflects its amphibious and expeditionary roots, with a reputation for toughness in island and jungle warfare. • Deactivation: In November 2022, 2/3 was deactivated as part of the Marine Corps Force Design 2030 initiative, ending 80 years of storied service. • Legacy: The battalion’s colors, honors, and traditions continue to inspire Marines, and many former members remain active in veteran organizations, commemorating their shared history.