About this Unit
The 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade (2nd MEB) is a scalable, flexible, and rapidly deployable Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) of the United States Marine Corps. Established during World War II and reactivated in various forms over the decades, the 2nd MEB has participated in major operations, including Operation Desert Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. Headquartered at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, the brigade is capable of conducting amphibious assaults, crisis response, and sustained expeditionary operations. The 2nd MEB continues to serve as a key element of the II Marine Expeditionary Force, ready to respond to global contingencies.
Historical Facts
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Origins and Activation: The 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade (2nd MEB) traces its roots to World War II, when provisional brigade-sized units were formed for amphibious operations. The modern 2nd MEB was officially activated in 1966 at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina.
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Flexible Force: The 2nd MEB is a scalable, rapidly deployable Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF), capable of conducting operations ranging from humanitarian assistance to full-scale combat.
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Operation Desert Storm: Elements of the 2nd MEB participated in Operation Desert Storm in 1991, supporting coalition efforts to liberate Kuwait from Iraqi occupation.
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Humanitarian Missions: 2nd MEB has deployed for multiple humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations, including support missions in Haiti after the 2010 earthquake.
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Afghanistan Deployment: In 2009, 2nd MEB, designated as Task Force Leatherneck, deployed to Helmand Province, Afghanistan, as part of Operation Enduring Freedom, leading significant combat operations against Taliban forces.
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Operation Moshtarak: In 2010, 2nd MEB led Operation Moshtarak, the largest joint offensive of the war in Afghanistan, aimed at clearing insurgents from the town of Marjah.
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Command Structure: As a MAGTF, 2nd MEB typically includes a command element, ground combat element, aviation combat element, and logistics combat element, allowing for independent and sustained operations.
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Nickname: The 2nd MEB is often referred to as "Task Force Leatherneck" during major deployments or operations.
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Training Exercises: 2nd MEB regularly participates in major multinational training exercises such as Bold Alligator and Trident Juncture, strengthening interoperability with allied forces.
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Decorations: Units under the 2nd MEB have received numerous honors and awards for valor and meritorious service, reflecting their distinguished record in both combat and peacetime operations.
