About this Unit
The 4th Battalion, 11th Marines (4/11) is an artillery battalion of the United States Marine Corps, first activated during World War II in 1942. Assigned to the 1st Marine Division, 4/11 provided crucial fire support in campaigns such as Guadalcanal and later in the Pacific Theater, including the battles of Peleliu and Okinawa. The battalion was deactivated after the war but has since been reactivated several times, serving in conflicts including the Gulf War, where it provided artillery support during Operation Desert Storm. Today, 4/11 continues to serve as a reserve artillery unit, upholding its tradition of excellence in fire support for Marine ground forces.
Historical Facts
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Origins: The 4th Battalion, 11th Marines (4/11) was originally activated on March 1, 1942, at New River, North Carolina, as part of the rapid expansion of the US Marine Corps during World War II.
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World War II Service: 4/11 participated in major Pacific campaigns, including the battles of Guadalcanal, Peleliu, and Okinawa, providing crucial artillery support for ground operations.
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Deactivation and Reactivation: The battalion was deactivated post-WWII but has been reactivated multiple times, reflecting the changing needs of the Marine Corps during the Cold War and beyond.
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Vietnam War: 4/11 played a key role in the Vietnam War, supporting Marine infantry units with artillery fire and often operating in challenging terrain and under fire.
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Gulf War Deployment: 4/11 deployed to Saudi Arabia and Kuwait during Operation Desert Storm in 1991, providing artillery support during the liberation of Kuwait.
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Adoption of HIMARS: In 2007, 4/11 became one of the first Marine Corps battalions to field the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS), greatly increasing their range and accuracy.
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Global War on Terror: Units from 4/11 have deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan, supporting both conventional and counter-insurgency operations with artillery and fire support coordination.
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Nickname: 4/11 is nicknamed the "Thunder Battalion," reflecting the power and impact of their artillery fire support.
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Unique Configuration: 4/11 has frequently been organized as a “reinforced” battalion, integrating other assets such as target acquisition, counter-battery radar, and even provisional infantry roles when needed.
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Current Assignment: Today, 4/11 is a part of the 1st Marine Division, based at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, and continues to train for expeditionary artillery operations worldwide.
