About this Unit
The 3rd Battalion, 23rd Marines (3/23), also known as "America's Battalion," is a unit in the United States Marine Corps Reserve, and its Weapons Company—often referred to as 3/23rd Weapons—provides heavy firepower and specialized support to the battalion. Activated during World War II, 3/23 participated in key Pacific campaigns, including Roi-Namur, Saipan, Tinian, and Iwo Jima. Weapons Company Marines have historically operated machine guns, mortars, and anti-armor systems, delivering crucial support in both offensive and defensive operations. In recent decades, 3/23rd Weapons has deployed in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, continuing its legacy of service and adaptability in modern conflicts.
Historical Facts
• Origins: 3rd Battalion, 23rd Marines (3/23) is a reserve infantry battalion of the United States Marine Corps, part of the 4th Marine Division. Its Weapons Company ("3/23 Weapons") provides heavy firepower and support for the battalion.
• World War II Service: The 23rd Marine Regiment, including 3/23, was activated in 1942 and fought in key Pacific campaigns, notably in Kwajalein, Saipan, Tinian, and Iwo Jima.
• Iwo Jima Heroism: During the Battle of Iwo Jima, 3/23’s Weapons Company provided essential fire support, particularly with heavy machine guns and mortars, enabling advances against fortified Japanese positions.
• Decorated Service: Members of 3/23, including those from Weapons Company, have received numerous awards for bravery, including Silver Stars and Bronze Stars, during World War II and subsequent conflicts.
• Cold War Role: As a reserve unit, 3/23 Weapons trained regularly throughout the Cold War, ensuring rapid mobilization and readiness, with Marines often coming from civilian backgrounds and diverse professions.
• Gulf War Activation: 3/23 was activated during Operation Desert Storm in 1990-1991, deploying to Southwest Asia and providing security and support in the region.
• Operation Iraqi Freedom: The battalion, including Weapons Company, was activated and deployed to Iraq in 2003 and 2005-2006, conducting security, convoy escort, and combat operations near the Syrian border and around Fallujah.
• Modern Weaponry: Weapons Company specializes in heavy arms such as anti-armor missiles (Javelin, TOW), heavy machine guns (.50 cal, M240), and mortars, providing crucial firepower for battalion operations.
• Community Ties: As a reserve unit, 3/23 Weapons is based in locations such as St. Louis, Missouri, and maintains strong ties to local communities through public events and veteran support initiatives.
• Legacy and Brotherhood: 3/23 Weapons has a proud history of camaraderie and resilience, with generations of Marines maintaining the unit’s traditions and sharing stories of service from World War II to the present day.
