3:7th Marines

• Historic Beginnings: The 3rd Battalion, 7th Marines (3/7) was originally activated on January 1, 1941, at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, and has a long, distinguished history within the United States Marine Corps. • Guadalcanal Campaign: 3/7 played a pivotal role in the Guadalcanal Campaign during World War II, helping to secure the first major Allied offensive against Japanese forces in the Pacific. • Iwo Jima Valor: The battalion fought fiercely in the Battle of Iwo Jima, where several Marines from 3/7 distinguished themselves with acts of heroism. • Korean War Heroics: 3/7 participated in the legendary Battle of Chosin Reservoir, fighting their way through encirclement in freezing temperatures and earning the nickname "The Chosin Few" alongside other units. • Vietnam War Operations: From 1965 to 1970, 3/7 conducted numerous operations in Vietnam, including Operations Starlite and Utah, engaging in fierce combat against North Vietnamese Army and Viet Cong forces. • Desert Storm Deployment: 3/7 was deployed during Operation Desert Storm in 1990–1991, taking part in the liberation of Kuwait from Iraqi forces. • Global War on Terror: Since 2001, 3/7 has deployed multiple times to Iraq and Afghanistan, engaging in counterinsurgency, stability, and support operations in hotspots like Al Qaim, Fallujah, and Helmand Province. • Decorations: The battalion has earned numerous unit citations, including Presidential Unit Citations and Navy Unit Commendations for extraordinary heroism and performance in combat. • Notable Marines: Several Marines who served in 3/7 have gone on to achieve significant distinction, including Medal of Honor recipients such as Gunnery Sergeant John Basilone (who also served in 1/7). • Motto and Legacy: The motto of 3/7 is “Semper Fidelis,” Latin for “Always Faithful,” and the battalion is known for its esprit de corps, toughness, and proud legacy in Marine Corps history.