7TH MARINES

• Formation and Early History: The 7th Marine Regiment ("7th Marines") was activated on August 14, 1917, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and has served in some of the most significant conflicts in U.S. history. • World War II Pacific Campaigns: The 7th Marines played a crucial role in the Pacific Theater, fighting in legendary battles such as Guadalcanal, Cape Gloucester, Peleliu, and Okinawa. • Guadalcanal "Bloody Ridge": During the Battle of Guadalcanal, the 7th Marines helped defend Henderson Field in the fierce "Battle of Edson's Ridge," a pivotal moment in the campaign. • Korean War - Chosin Reservoir: The regiment earned fame during the Korean War for its heroic actions at the Chosin Reservoir, executing a fighting withdrawal against overwhelming Chinese forces in freezing conditions. • "Magnificent Seventh": The unit is nicknamed the "Magnificent Seventh" because of its distinguished combat record and esprit de corps. • Vietnam War Operations: From 1965 to 1970, the 7th Marines were heavily engaged in Vietnam, participating in operations such as Starlite, Piranha, and Union, and earning numerous unit citations. • Medal of Honor Recipients: Several Marines from the 7th Regiment have received the Medal of Honor for valor, including the legendary Gunnery Sergeant John Basilone in World War II and Captain Raymond G. Murphy in Korea. • Operation Desert Storm: The 7th Marines deployed to Saudi Arabia in 1990-1991, participating in Operation Desert Storm and the liberation of Kuwait. • War on Terror Deployments: The regiment has been deployed multiple times to Iraq and Afghanistan since 2001, conducting major combat operations in places such as Fallujah, Ramadi, and Helmand Province. • Current Role: Today, the 7th Marines serve as an integral part of the 1st Marine Division, headquartered at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, maintaining readiness for rapid deployment worldwide.