About this Unit
The 3rd Battalion, 26th Marines (3/26) was an infantry battalion of the United States Marine Corps, first activated during World War II. It saw its most notable service during the Vietnam War, participating in major operations such as Operation Prairie, the Siege of Khe Sanh, and Operation Kingfisher. The battalion was renowned for its resilience and effectiveness in some of the most intense combat situations in I Corps, South Vietnam. After several deployments and distinguished service, 3/26 was eventually deactivated as part of the post-war drawdown.
Historical Facts
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Formation and Nickname: The 3rd Battalion, 26th Marines (3/26) was activated in 1966, during the Vietnam War, and was known by the nickname "The Professionals."
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Part of the 5th Marine Division: The battalion was originally formed as a part of the 5th Marine Division and later became part of the 26th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division.
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Khe Sanh Combat Base: 3/26 played a major role in the defense of Khe Sanh during the famous Siege of Khe Sanh in 1968, one of the largest battles of the Vietnam War.
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Operation Kingfisher: The battalion participated in Operation Kingfisher (July–October 1967), a series of intense battles near the DMZ, suffering heavy casualties but inflicting significant losses on North Vietnamese forces.
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Presidential Unit Citation: The unit received the Presidential Unit Citation for its actions at Khe Sanh, recognizing extraordinary heroism and collective bravery under fire.
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Medal of Honor Recipients: Two Marines from 3/26, PFC Robert H. Jenkins, Jr. and LCPL Richard A. Anderson, were posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for valor in Vietnam.
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Operation Meade River: In late 1968, 3/26 took part in Operation Meade River, the largest Marine cordon operation of the war, which aimed to root out Viet Cong units south of Da Nang.
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Deactivation and Legacy: The battalion was deactivated in 1970 as part of the drawdown of U.S. forces in Vietnam but remains honored in Marine Corps history.
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Notable Alumni: Several Marines who served in 3/26 went on to distinguished military and civilian careers, including leaders such as Colonel John W. Ripley, a legendary figure in Marine Corps history.
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Unit Motto and Esprit de Corps: The 3/26th Marines were known for their fierce esprit de corps, camaraderie, and commitment to the Marine Corps motto, "Semper Fidelis" (Always Faithful), a legacy remembered by veterans and historians alike.
