About this Unit
The 3rd Battalion, 12th Marines (3/12) is an artillery battalion of the United States Marine Corps, activated in 1942 during World War II. It played a significant role in the Pacific Theater, notably participating in the battles of Bougainville, Guam, and Iwo Jima. During the Vietnam War, 3/12 provided vital fire support for Marine and allied forces throughout the conflict. Today, 3/12 is stationed at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, and remains a key component of the 3rd Marine Division, providing artillery support and rapid-deployment capabilities throughout the Indo-Pacific region.
Historical Facts
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Formation and World War II Origins: The 3rd Battalion, 12th Marines (3/12) was first activated on September 16, 1942, at Camp Elliott, California, as part of the 3rd Marine Division during World War II.
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Pacific Campaigns: 3/12 participated in major Pacific battles, including Bougainville, Guam, and the pivotal Battle of Iwo Jima, providing critical artillery support.
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Occupation of Japan: After World War II, the battalion was deployed to Japan as part of the occupation forces, helping maintain stability during the early postwar period.
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Vietnam War Service: 3/12 saw extensive combat in Vietnam, supporting Marine infantry operations from 1965 to 1969, and earned several unit commendations for its actions.
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Flexible Artillery Deployments: The battalion is unique in that it has a headquarters based in Okinawa, Japan, but its firing batteries rotate in from other Marine artillery units in the U.S.—a system called the Unit Deployment Program (UDP).
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Modern Equipment: 3/12 operates the M777A2 155mm lightweight howitzer, which is transportable by MV-22 Osprey and CH-53E helicopters, allowing rapid deployment and mobility.
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Humanitarian Assistance: The battalion has frequently supported humanitarian missions, such as disaster relief in the Asia-Pacific region after events like the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami.
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Bilateral Training: 3/12 regularly trains with regional partners and allies, including the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, as part of exercises like Fuji Viper and Artillery Relocation Training Program (ARTP).
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Nickname and Motto: The battalion is nicknamed "Thunder," a nod to the powerful impact of artillery, and its motto is "Semper Fidelis"—Always Faithful.
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Continued Forward Presence: As a key component of the 3rd Marine Division, 3/12 provides forward-deployed artillery support in the Indo-Pacific, maintaining readiness and deterrence in a strategically vital region.
