About this Unit
The 8th Marine Regiment, known as the "8th Marines," was activated in 1917 and is a distinguished infantry unit of the United States Marine Corps. It gained fame during World War II as part of the 2nd Marine Division, participating in key battles such as Guadalcanal, Tarawa, Saipan, and Tinian. In the decades since, the 8th Marines have served in numerous conflicts, including the Gulf War, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. Renowned for their courage and adaptability, the regiment has played a vital role in projecting U.S. military power and upholding Marine Corps traditions around the world.
Historical Facts
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Formation during World War I: The 8th Marine Regiment was activated on October 9, 1917, at Quantico, Virginia, as part of the American Expeditionary Force, but did not see combat before the war ended.
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Reactivation for World War II: The unit was reactivated in 1940 in preparation for the United States' involvement in World War II, becoming a key part of the 2nd Marine Division.
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Guadalcanal Campaign: The 8th Marines landed on Guadalcanal in November 1942, reinforcing the exhausted 1st Marine Division and participating in the final push to secure the island.
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Tarawa Atoll Assault: During the Battle of Tarawa in November 1943, the 8th Marines faced fierce Japanese resistance and suffered heavy casualties, but successfully secured Betio Island after 76 hours of intense fighting.
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Saipan and Tinian Landings: In 1944, the regiment participated in the invasions of Saipan and Tinian, playing a central role in capturing both strategic islands in the Marianas.
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Okinawa Operations: The 8th Marines supported the Okinawa campaign in 1945, which proved to be one of the bloodiest battles of the Pacific theater.
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Cuban Missile Crisis Deployment: In October 1962, the 8th Marines were quickly deployed to the Caribbean during the Cuban Missile Crisis, prepared to conduct amphibious operations if needed.
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Lebanon Peacekeeping Mission: The regiment deployed to Beirut, Lebanon, in 1982-1983 as part of the Multinational Force, providing security and humanitarian support during a period of intense conflict.
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Operation Desert Storm: The 8th Marines participated in the 1991 liberation of Kuwait, advancing into Iraqi-held territory as part of the coalition ground offensive.
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Global War on Terror: Since 2001, the regiment has deployed multiple times to Iraq and Afghanistan, conducting combat and stability operations as part of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom.
