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3:4th Marines

U.S. Marine Corps•151 members

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About this Unit

3:4th Marines

U.S. Marine Corps

The 3rd Battalion, 4th Marines (3/4), known as "Thundering Third," is an infantry battalion of the United States Marine Corps with a storied history dating back to its activation in 1925. The battalion saw extensive combat in World War II, participating in major battles such as Guadalcanal, Guam, and Okinawa. During the Vietnam War, 3/4 earned distinction in numerous operations, including the famous seizure of Hill 881 during the Battle of Khe Sanh. In the 21st century, 3/4 deployed multiple times in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, continuing its legacy of valor and adaptability.

About 3:4th Marines

About this Unit

Historical Facts

Historic Roots: The 3rd Battalion, 4th Marines (3/4) was originally activated in 1925, making it one of the oldest battalions in the Marine Corps.
Nickname: 3/4 is commonly known as the "Thundering Third," a nickname reflecting its reputation for fierce combat effectiveness.
Bataan Death March: In World War II, the original 4th Marines were captured and forced to endure the infamous Bataan Death March after the fall of Corregidor in the Philippines.
Vietnam War: 3/4 was among the first Marine battalions to land in Vietnam in 1965 and participated in several major operations including Operation Hastings and the Battle of Khe Sanh.
Operation Desert Storm: The battalion was deployed during Operation Desert Storm in 1991 as part of the 1st Marine Division.
Iraq War: 3/4 was one of the first Marine units to cross the border into Iraq in 2003, playing a key role in the Battle of An Nasiriyah and the march to Baghdad.
"The Magnificent Bastards": The battalion is also known by the nickname "The Magnificent Bastards," a moniker embraced by its Marines for their fighting spirit.
Operation Red Wings Connection: The battalion was involved in Operation Red Wings, which is famous for the story recounted in the book and movie "Lone Survivor."
Multiple Deployments to Afghanistan: 3/4 deployed several times to Helmand Province, Afghanistan, where they conducted counterinsurgency operations in challenging environments.
Symbolism: The battalion’s insignia features a gold lion and a shield, symbolizing courage and readiness to defend, reflecting the unit’s storied legacy.

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3:4th Marines

U.S. Marine Corps•151 members

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About this Unit

3:4th Marines

U.S. Marine Corps

Unit members

Gary Engmann

U.S. Marine Corps Veteran · 1966 - 1967

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Richard Ritter

U.S. Marine Corps Military Retiree · 1976 - 1977

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Neal Landeen

U.S. Marine Corps Veteran · 1978 - 1978

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Lawrence Hughes

U.S. Marine Corps Veteran · 1963 - 1997

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About 3:4th Marines

About this Unit

Historical Facts

Historic Roots: The 3rd Battalion, 4th Marines (3/4) was originally activated in 1925, making it one of the oldest battalions in the Marine Corps.
Nickname: 3/4 is commonly known as the "Thundering Third," a nickname reflecting its reputation for fierce combat effectiveness.
Bataan Death March: In World War II, the original 4th Marines were captured and forced to endure the infamous Bataan Death March after the fall of Corregidor in the Philippines.
Vietnam War: 3/4 was among the first Marine battalions to land in Vietnam in 1965 and participated in several major operations including Operation Hastings and the Battle of Khe Sanh.
Operation Desert Storm: The battalion was deployed during Operation Desert Storm in 1991 as part of the 1st Marine Division.
Iraq War: 3/4 was one of the first Marine units to cross the border into Iraq in 2003, playing a key role in the Battle of An Nasiriyah and the march to Baghdad.
"The Magnificent Bastards": The battalion is also known by the nickname "The Magnificent Bastards," a moniker embraced by its Marines for their fighting spirit.
Operation Red Wings Connection: The battalion was involved in Operation Red Wings, which is famous for the story recounted in the book and movie "Lone Survivor."
Multiple Deployments to Afghanistan: 3/4 deployed several times to Helmand Province, Afghanistan, where they conducted counterinsurgency operations in challenging environments.
Symbolism: The battalion’s insignia features a gold lion and a shield, symbolizing courage and readiness to defend, reflecting the unit’s storied legacy.