8TH MARINES

• 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • Okinawa Operations: The 8th Marines supported the Okinawa campaign in 1945, which proved to be one of the bloodiest battles of the Pacific theater. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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.