About this Unit
The 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marines ("3/3"), nicknamed "America's Battalion," is an infantry battalion of the United States Marine Corps formed in 1942 during World War II. The unit saw combat in the Pacific Theater, including the battles of Bougainville and Guam. During the Vietnam War, 3/3 participated in major operations such as Operation Starlite and Operation Hastings. In the 21st century, the battalion deployed multiple times to Iraq and Afghanistan, continuing its legacy as one of the Marine Corps’ most storied and battle-tested units.
Historical Facts
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Origins and Designation: The 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marines (3/3), known as "America’s Battalion," was activated on June 1, 1942, at New River, North Carolina, as part of the build-up for World War II.
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World War II Service: 3/3 participated in major Pacific campaigns, including the battles of Bougainville, Guam, and Iwo Jima, playing a crucial role in the island-hopping strategy.
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Vietnam War Deployments: The battalion was deployed to Vietnam in 1965 and took part in major operations such as Starlite, Hastings, and Prairie, earning a reputation for effective jungle warfare.
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Decorations for Valor: 3/3 has received numerous awards, including Presidential Unit Citations and Navy Unit Commendations, for its actions in World War II, Vietnam, and the Global War on Terrorism.
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Operation Desert Storm: Although not directly engaged in combat during Operation Desert Storm, 3/3 was deployed to Okinawa as a rapid response force and was prepared for contingency operations.
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Afghanistan Deployments: 3/3 completed several deployments to Afghanistan, particularly in Helmand Province, where they conducted counterinsurgency operations and trained Afghan security forces.
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Iraq Operations: The battalion deployed to Al Anbar Province, Iraq, in 2006 and again in 2007, focusing on counterinsurgency, stability, and rebuilding efforts in Haditha, Barwanah, and Haqlaniyah.
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Notable Alumni: Several 3/3 Marines have gone on to distinguished service, including Medal of Honor recipient Sgt. Major Allan Kellogg, who served with the battalion in Vietnam.
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“America’s Battalion” Nickname: The nickname was adopted in the 1990s to reflect the unit’s diverse composition and its deployments around the globe in service of the United States.
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Deactivation and Reactivation: 3/3 has been deactivated and reactivated several times throughout its history, most recently reactivating in 2023 as part of the Marine Corps' Force Design 2030 modernization efforts.
