3:14th Marines

• Unit Designation: The 3rd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment (3/14) is a reserve artillery battalion within the United States Marine Corps Reserve. • Nickname: 3/14 is also known as "The Dirty Third" among its members, a moniker reflecting the battalion's gritty reputation. • World War II Service: The battalion was originally activated during World War II and served with distinction in the Pacific theater, participating in campaigns such as Iwo Jima. • Reserve Component: As a reserve unit, 3/14 is headquartered in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and draws Marines from across several states. • Gulf War Heroics: During Operation Desert Storm in 1991, Battery H of 3/14 famously destroyed an entire column of Iraqi armored vehicles using M198 howitzers in the Battle of Khafji, marking one of the longest artillery engagements since World War II. • September 11 Response: After the 9/11 attacks, elements of 3/14 were quickly mobilized to support homeland defense and later deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan in the Global War on Terror. • Community Engagement: 3/14 is known for its strong community ties, regularly participating in parades, memorial services, and educational events in the Philadelphia area. • Modern Equipment: The battalion has transitioned through several artillery systems, from the M101A1 105mm howitzer in its early years to the current M777A2 155mm lightweight howitzer. • Honors and Decorations: 3/14 has earned numerous unit citations, including Presidential Unit Citations and Navy Unit Commendations, for its actions in both World War II and the Gulf War. • Legacy and Tradition: The unit emphasizes its motto, "Semper Fidelis" (Always Faithful), and maintains a strong esprit de corps through reunions, historical preservation, and mentoring programs for younger Marines.