3:26th Marines

• 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." • 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. • 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. • 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. • Presidential Unit Citation: The unit received the Presidential Unit Citation for its actions at Khe Sanh, recognizing extraordinary heroism and collective bravery under fire. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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.