HQ COMPANY HQ BATTALION 5TH MARINE DIVISION

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Branch

U.S. Marine Corps

Members

About HQ COMPANY HQ BATTALION 5TH MARINE DIVISION

HQ Company, Headquarters Battalion, 5th Marine Division was activated during World War II as part of the U.S. Marine Corps’ rapid expansion for operations in the Pacific Theater. The unit played a pivotal role in the planning and coordination of division-level operations, most notably during the Battle of Iwo Jima in 1945, where the 5th Marine Division earned distinction for its valor and effectiveness. HQ Company provided critical command, control, and administrative support to ensure seamless communication and logistics throughout the campaign. After the war, the unit was deactivated, but its legacy continues to be honored as part of Marine Corps history.

Unit Members

Samuel Johnson

U.S. Marine Corps

HQ COMPANY HQ BATTALION 5TH MARINE DIVISIONView Profile

Natalyn Bruner Mann

U.S. Marine Corps

HQ COMPANY HQ BATTALION 5TH MARINE DIVISIONView Profile

Photos

U.S. Marine Corps • 1976

About HQ COMPANY HQ BATTALION 5TH MARINE DIVISION

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Activation for World War II: HQ Company, HQ Battalion, 5th Marine Division was activated on November 11, 1943 at Camp Pendleton, California, as part of the rapid expansion of the USMC during World War II. • Role in the Battle of Iwo Jima: The 5th Marine Division, supported by HQ Company, played a pivotal role in the iconic capture of Mount Suribachi, where the famed flag-raising photograph was taken on February 23, 1945. • Legendary Commanders: Major General Keller E. Rockey commanded the 5th Marine Division, with HQ Company providing essential command and control throughout the division’s operations. • Medal of Honor Recipients: Several Marines from the 5th Marine Division, coordinated and supported by HQ elements, received the Medal of Honor for extraordinary heroism at Iwo Jima. • Diversified Functions: HQ Company was responsible for crucial administrative, logistical, communications, and operational support, ensuring the division’s effectiveness in combat. • Deactivation after WWII: After the end of World War II, the 5th Marine Division, including HQ Company, was deactivated on February 5, 1946 as part of the post-war drawdown. • Reactivation for Korean War: The division and its HQ Company were reactivated in 1946 as part of the Marine Corps Reserve, in preparation for potential Cold War commitments. • Casualty Rate at Iwo Jima: The 5th Marine Division suffered some of the highest casualty rates among Marine units at Iwo Jima, with HQ Company bearing losses as it provided support near the front lines. • Nickname "The Spearhead Division": The division, with HQ Company at its core, earned the nickname "The Spearhead Division" for its relentless drives during the Iwo Jima campaign. • Legacy and Memorials: The legacy of HQ Company, HQ Battalion, 5th Marine Division is honored at the 5th Marine Division Memorial at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, commemorating their sacrifices and achievements in World War II.