About this Unit
The 5th Battalion, 10th Marines (5/10), is an artillery battalion of the United States Marine Corps, historically part of the 2nd Marine Division. Activated in January 1941, 5/10th Marines played a pivotal role during World War II, notably providing fire support in key battles such as Tarawa, Saipan, Tinian, and Okinawa. The battalion has also served in subsequent conflicts, including the Global War on Terror, where it supported operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. Over its history, 5/10th Marines has earned a reputation for flexibility and precision fire support, embodying the motto "Second to None."
Historical Facts
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World War II Origins: 5th Battalion, 10th Marines (5/10) was activated on November 1, 1940, at San Diego, California, as part of the 2nd Marine Division. The unit played a crucial artillery support role throughout World War II.
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Battle of Tarawa: 5/10th Marines provided artillery fire support during the fierce Battle of Tarawa in November 1943—one of the bloodiest battles in Marine Corps history.
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Saipan and Tinian Campaigns: The battalion was heavily involved in the invasions of Saipan and Tinian in 1944, helping secure these strategic islands for Allied forces in the Pacific.
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Okinawa Landings: During the 1945 Battle of Okinawa, 5/10th Marines delivered continuous fire support under challenging and dangerous conditions, contributing to the eventual Allied victory.
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Deactivation and Reactivation: After World War II, 5/10th Marines was deactivated in November 1947, but reactivated in January 1951 as Cold War tensions rose.
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Cold War Service: Throughout the Cold War, 5/10th Marines participated in numerous training exercises and deployments, maintaining readiness in the face of global uncertainty.
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Operation Desert Storm: The battalion deployed to Southwest Asia in 1990-1991 as part of Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, providing artillery support during the liberation of Kuwait.
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Global War on Terror: 5/10th Marines supported operations in both Iraq and Afghanistan, deploying batteries and personnel in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.
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Modernization: The battalion has continuously modernized, transitioning from traditional towed artillery to more advanced systems, ensuring its relevance in 21st-century conflicts.
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Unit Motto: The 5/10th Marines' motto is "The Best Supporting the Best," reflecting their proud tradition of providing essential artillery support to Marine infantry units.
