5TH MARINE REGIMENT

• Oldest Active Regiment: The 5th Marine Regiment, also known as "5th Marines," was activated on June 8, 1917, making it the oldest continuously serving regiment in the Marine Corps. • Devil Dogs: The regiment earned the nickname "Devil Dogs" ("Teufel Hunden") from German soldiers during World War I for their tenacity at the Battle of Belleau Wood. • Fourragère: The 5th Marines are authorized to wear the French Fourragère, a braided cord, for their heroic actions in France during World War I—an honor shared only with the 6th Marines. • Belleau Wood: The regiment played a pivotal role in the Battle of Belleau Wood in 1918, helping turn the tide against the Germans and solidifying the Marine Corps' reputation as elite shock troops. • Guadalcanal Campaign: During World War II, the 5th Marines were among the first units to land during the pivotal Guadalcanal Campaign in 1942. • Korean War - Chosin Reservoir: The regiment fought in the legendary Battle of Chosin Reservoir, where Marines withstood brutal cold and overwhelming Chinese forces. • Vietnam War - Operation Hue City: The 5th Marines spearheaded the grueling house-to-house combat during the Battle of Hue City in 1968, one of the fiercest urban battles of the Vietnam War. • Decorations: The 5th Marines have received numerous Presidential Unit Citations, Navy Unit Commendations, and campaign streamers for their distinguished service in major conflicts. • Operation Iraqi Freedom: Elements of the 5th Marines were among the first U.S. troops to cross into Iraq in 2003, leading the assault to Baghdad. • Notable Alumni: Legendary Marines such as John Basilone (Medal of Honor recipient) served with the 5th Marines, further enhancing the regiment's storied legacy.