Mike Battery 411

• Origins: Mike Battery, formally known as Mike Battery, 4th Battalion, 11th Marines (4/11), is a United States Marine Corps artillery battery with a history dating back to World War II. • World War II Service: The 4th Battalion, 11th Marines, including Mike Battery, participated in several Pacific campaigns, providing artillery support during pivotal battles such as the Battle of Iwo Jima in 1945. • Korean War: Mike Battery was reactivated for the Korean War, where it provided crucial fire support in key engagements, demonstrating adaptability in harsh, mountainous terrain. • Vietnam War: During the Vietnam War, Mike Battery was deployed and played a significant role in providing artillery fire support for Marine infantry units, often operating from remote firebases under challenging conditions. • Gulf War: Mike Battery was deployed as part of Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm in 1990-1991, supporting the rapid coalition advance into Kuwait and Iraq with precision artillery fire. • Operation Iraqi Freedom: In the early 2000s, Mike Battery deployed to Iraq, delivering fire support in multiple operations and adapting to the evolving urban and counter-insurgency environments. • First Artillery Unit to Fire in Iraq (2003): Mike Battery is credited as being the first Marine artillery unit to fire during the initial invasion of Iraq in 2003, marking a historic moment for the unit. • Innovative Tactics: The battery has been recognized for employing innovative artillery tactics, including "shoot and scoot" methods to avoid enemy counter-battery fire and maximize operational effectiveness. • Community and Legacy: Mike Battery maintains a strong connection with its veterans and the Marine Corps community, often participating in reunions, memorial events, and educational outreach to preserve its storied history. • Nickname and Motto: Known as "Mike Battery," the unit's camaraderie and esprit de corps are legendary, with the battery's Marines priding themselves on their precision, reliability, and unwavering support for their fellow warfighters.