About this Unit
Kilo Battery, 1st Battalion, 10th Marines (Kilo 1/10), is an artillery unit within the United States Marine Corps, based at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. Activated during World War II, the unit provided direct and general artillery support to Marine infantry units in key operations across the Pacific theater. Over the decades, Kilo 1/10 has participated in significant conflicts, including the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and more recent deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. The battery is renowned for its precision fire support, adaptability, and steadfast commitment to the Marine Corps' mission worldwide.
Historical Facts
•
Unit Designation: Kilo Battery, 1st Battalion, 10th Marines (Kilo 1/10) is an artillery battery within the United States Marine Corps, traditionally providing fire support to Marine infantry units.
•
World War II Origins: The 10th Marine Regiment, including its batteries, was formed in 1918 and saw significant combat in World War II, including action at Guadalcanal, Tarawa, Saipan, Tinian, and Okinawa.
•
Cold War Deployments: Throughout the Cold War, Kilo Battery participated in numerous training exercises and deployments, enhancing artillery readiness and supporting NATO commitments.
•
Operation Desert Storm: Kilo Battery, 1/10 deployed to the Middle East as part of Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm in 1990-1991, providing artillery support during the liberation of Kuwait.
•
Global War on Terror: After 9/11, Kilo 1/10 was deployed multiple times to Iraq and Afghanistan, supporting Marine infantry with precise artillery fire and counter-battery operations.
•
Notable Equipment: Kilo Battery has operated several artillery pieces over its history, including the M198 155mm Howitzer and, more recently, the M777 Lightweight Howitzer.
•
Call Sign “Kilo”: The battery’s NATO phonetic alphabet call sign is "Kilo," a designation used in radio communications and tactical operations.
•
Innovation in Fire Support: Kilo 1/10 has been at the forefront of integrating new artillery fire direction technologies, including digital fire control systems and GPS-guided munitions.
•
Tradition of Excellence: Marines assigned to Kilo Battery are renowned for their high standards in gunnery, field operations, and esprit de corps, upholding the proud traditions of the Marine Corps artillery.
•
Community Engagement: In peacetime, Kilo Battery regularly participates in community events, parades, and public outreach to foster strong civilian-military relations and share Marine Corps history.