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3:2nd Marines

U.S. Marine Corps•133 members

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About this Unit

3:2nd Marines

U.S. Marine Corps

The 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marines (3/2), known as "Betio Bastards," is an infantry battalion of the United States Marine Corps based at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. Activated in 1941, 3/2 participated in major World War II campaigns, including the Battle of Tarawa, earning its nickname for actions on Betio Island. The battalion has seen combat in numerous conflicts, such as the Gulf War, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. Renowned for its operational effectiveness, 3/2 continues to serve as a rapid response force, upholding a distinguished legacy in Marine Corps history.

About 3:2nd Marines

About this Unit

Historical Facts

Origins: The 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marines (3/2) was activated on January 18, 1941 at Camp Elliott, San Diego, California, as part of the rapid expansion of the Marine Corps prior to World War II.
World War II Service: 3/2 fought in several critical Pacific campaigns, including the battles of Tarawa, Saipan, Tinian, and Okinawa, earning a formidable combat reputation.
Korean War: The battalion was reactivated for the Korean War and participated in key operations, including the defense of the Pusan Perimeter and the Inchon Landing.
Nickname "Betio Bastards": 3/2 earned the nickname "Betio Bastards" after the brutal fighting at Betio Island during the Battle of Tarawa in 1943.
Lebanon Peacekeeping: In 1983, 3/2 deployed as part of the Multinational Force in Lebanon, providing security and support during a period of intense instability.
Operation Desert Storm: 3/2 participated in Operation Desert Storm in 1991, supporting combat operations to liberate Kuwait from Iraqi occupation.
Humanitarian Missions: The battalion has been involved in humanitarian missions, including relief efforts in Haiti after the 2010 earthquake.
Global War on Terror: 3/2 deployed multiple times to Iraq and Afghanistan, notably fighting in battles such as Fallujah and operations in Helmand Province.
Decorations: 3/2 has received numerous unit awards, including Presidential Unit Citations and Navy Unit Commendations for valor and distinguished service.
Legacy: The battalion's history and traditions are celebrated annually with a "Betio Run," commemorating the Marines and Sailors who fought and died in its storied past.

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3:2nd Marines

U.S. Marine Corps•133 members

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About this Unit

3:2nd Marines

U.S. Marine Corps

Unit members

Sgt. Christopher O'Leary

U.S. Marine Corps · 1994 - 2005

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Howard Johnston

U.S. Marine Corps · 1995 - 1999

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Howard Johnston

U.S. Marine Corps · 1995 - 1999

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Davey Sims

U.S. Marine Corps · 1992 - 2000

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Marine Corps photos

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About 3:2nd Marines

About this Unit

Historical Facts

Origins: The 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marines (3/2) was activated on January 18, 1941 at Camp Elliott, San Diego, California, as part of the rapid expansion of the Marine Corps prior to World War II.
World War II Service: 3/2 fought in several critical Pacific campaigns, including the battles of Tarawa, Saipan, Tinian, and Okinawa, earning a formidable combat reputation.
Korean War: The battalion was reactivated for the Korean War and participated in key operations, including the defense of the Pusan Perimeter and the Inchon Landing.
Nickname "Betio Bastards": 3/2 earned the nickname "Betio Bastards" after the brutal fighting at Betio Island during the Battle of Tarawa in 1943.
Lebanon Peacekeeping: In 1983, 3/2 deployed as part of the Multinational Force in Lebanon, providing security and support during a period of intense instability.
Operation Desert Storm: 3/2 participated in Operation Desert Storm in 1991, supporting combat operations to liberate Kuwait from Iraqi occupation.
Humanitarian Missions: The battalion has been involved in humanitarian missions, including relief efforts in Haiti after the 2010 earthquake.
Global War on Terror: 3/2 deployed multiple times to Iraq and Afghanistan, notably fighting in battles such as Fallujah and operations in Helmand Province.
Decorations: 3/2 has received numerous unit awards, including Presidential Unit Citations and Navy Unit Commendations for valor and distinguished service.
Legacy: The battalion's history and traditions are celebrated annually with a "Betio Run," commemorating the Marines and Sailors who fought and died in its storied past.