About this Unit
The 9th Marine Expeditionary Brigade (9th MEB) was a United States Marine Corps unit activated in the early 1960s as part of the U.S. military buildup during the Vietnam War. Initially formed as a rapid-response force in Okinawa, the 9th MEB was deployed to Da Nang, South Vietnam, in March 1965, marking the first major commitment of U.S. combat troops to the conflict. The brigade played a key role in securing airbases and conducting operations against Viet Cong forces in the I Corps tactical zone. The 9th MEB was later expanded and redesignated as the 3rd Marine Division as the U.S. commitment in Vietnam grew.
Historical Facts
•
Origins in Vietnam War: The 9th Marine Expeditionary Brigade (9th MEB) was activated in 1965 as part of the United States Marine Corps’ rapid response to the escalating conflict in Vietnam.
•
First US Combat Troops in Vietnam: The 9th MEB was the first major US combat unit to land in Vietnam, arriving at Da Nang on March 8, 1965, marking a significant escalation of American involvement in the war.
•
Amphibious Operations: The 9th MEB was specifically trained and organized for amphibious operations, reflecting the Marine Corps' unique capability to launch assaults from the sea.
•
Task Force Composition: The brigade was a composite unit, typically consisting of infantry, artillery, armor, and support elements, demonstrating the Marine Corps’ combined arms approach.
•
Da Nang Air Base Security: One of their first missions was to provide security for the vital Da Nang Air Base, a key hub for US air operations in Vietnam.
•
Expansion into III MAF: The 9th MEB served as the nucleus for the formation of the III Marine Amphibious Force (III MAF), which became the principal Marine command in Vietnam.
•
Reactivation and Deployments: The 9th MEB has been activated and deactivated multiple times, serving as a flexible, rapidly deployable Marine air-ground task force for various contingencies in the Pacific and beyond.
•
Humanitarian Missions: Beyond combat, the 9th MEB has participated in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations, showcasing the versatility of Marine expeditionary units.
•
Legacy in Marine Corps Doctrine: The experiences and lessons learned by the 9th MEB in Vietnam influenced later Marine Corps expeditionary doctrine and operations.
•
Commemorated in Marine Corps History: The service and sacrifices of the 9th MEB are honored in Marine Corps commemorations, and its role in Vietnam is remembered as a pivotal chapter in the Corps’ history.
