3:23rd Weapons

• 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.