About this Unit
Headquarters Battalion Communications Company (HQBN Comm Co), 2nd Marine Division, has played a vital role in ensuring robust command, control, and communications (C3) capabilities for the division since its establishment. Activated alongside the 2nd Marine Division at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, the company has supported major operations, from the Cold War era through Operations Desert Storm, Iraqi Freedom, and Enduring Freedom. The Marines and Sailors of Comm Co have consistently provided reliable communications support, enabling effective coordination and mission success for subordinate units in both training and combat environments. Their adaptability and technical expertise continue to be critical assets in enabling the 2nd Marine Division to accomplish its operational objectives worldwide.
Historical Facts
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Origins in World War II: HQBN Comm Co, or Headquarters Battalion, Communications Company, 2nd Marine Division, traces its roots back to the establishment of the 2nd Marine Division during World War II in 1941. The Division played a crucial role in major Pacific campaigns.
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Battle of Tarawa: During the Battle of Tarawa (1943), the 2nd Marine Division depended heavily on its communications units to coordinate amphibious assaults under intense enemy fire, setting a standard for battlefield communications.
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Crucial Role in Operation Desert Storm: In 1991, HQBN Comm Co provided vital communication links for the 2nd Marine Division during Operation Desert Storm, ensuring effective command and control in the fast-moving liberation of Kuwait.
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Adoption of Advanced Technology: The company has continually adapted to new technologies, from radio sets in WWII to today's encrypted satellite communications and advanced networking, always ensuring the Division's connectivity.
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Support in Humanitarian Missions: HQBN Comm Co has supported multiple humanitarian and disaster relief missions, providing communications infrastructure after natural disasters such as hurricanes in the Caribbean.
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Integral to Amphibious Readiness: The company's Marines routinely participate in amphibious exercises, ensuring the Division’s ability to deploy rapidly and communicate under any conditions, both on land and at sea.
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Tradition of Excellence: Marines in HQBN Comm Co are known for their high standards of technical proficiency, frequently earning awards in Marine Corps communication competitions and exercises.
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Support in the Global War on Terror: The company deployed elements in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, maintaining secure lines of communication in challenging and hostile environments.
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Training the Next Generation: HQBN Comm Co is responsible for training not only its own Marines, but also supporting Division-level communication training, passing on vital skills to the next generation of warfighters.
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Esprit de Corps and Unit Pride: Despite often being behind the scenes, the Marines of HQBN Comm Co take great pride in their motto: “No comms, no bombs,” emphasizing their essential role in every mission the 2nd Marine Division undertakes.