About this Unit
Headquarters and Service Company, 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines (H&S 2/4) has a distinguished history as the command and support backbone of "The Magnificent Bastards" battalion. Originally activated in 1914, the 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines has served with valor in major conflicts including World War II, the Korean War, Vietnam, and the Global War on Terrorism. H&S Company has provided critical leadership, communications, logistics, and medical support during pivotal battles such as Corregidor, Operation Starlite, and in Iraq and Afghanistan. Throughout its service, H&S 2/4 has upheld the proud traditions and fighting spirit of the United States Marine Corps.
Historical Facts
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Origins: Headquarters and Service Company (H&S Co), 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines (2/4), is an essential support element for the battalion, providing command, control, logistics, intelligence, and communications support.
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Nickname: The 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines is famously known as the "Magnificent Bastards," a moniker that has been embraced by its Marines and Sailors.
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World War II Valor: The 2/4th Marines saw intense combat in the Pacific Theater, including battles such as Guadalcanal, Saipan, Tinian, and Okinawa.
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Vietnam War: The battalion, including H&S Company, participated in some of the fiercest fighting of the Vietnam War, notably during Operation Hastings and the Battle of Dai Do.
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Battle of Dai Do (1968): During this battle, 2/4 sustained heavy casualties but demonstrated extraordinary heroism, earning multiple unit citations and individual awards for valor.
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Garrison and Deployments: H&S 2/4 has been stationed at various locations, including Camp Pendleton, California, and has deployed worldwide for exercises, humanitarian missions, and combat operations.
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Operation Iraqi Freedom: The unit played a significant role during the Iraq War, particularly in the volatile Al Anbar Province, conducting security, stability, and counterinsurgency operations.
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Presidential Unit Citation: For extraordinary heroism and outstanding performance during the Vietnam War, the battalion was awarded the Presidential Unit Citation, one of the highest unit awards.
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Supporting the Battalion: H&S Company is home to vital elements such as the Battalion Aid Station (medical), S-6 (communications), S-2 (intelligence), and other critical support sections ensuring the battalion's operational effectiveness.
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Legacy and Tradition: The "Magnificent Bastards" maintain a proud legacy of courage, sacrifice, and excellence, with H&S 2/4 upholding traditions of support and service that allow the battalion to excel in every mission.
