U.S. Marine Corps

The 1st Marine Scout Dog Platoon was formed during World War II as part of the United States Marine Corps' effort to utilize trained dogs for combat support roles. Established in 1943, the platoon saw its first action during the Bougainville campaign in the Pacific Theater, where scout dogs were used for scouting, message delivery, and detecting enemy positions. The success of the 1st Marine Scout Dog Platoon demonstrated the value of military working dogs in jungle warfare, leading to their continued use in subsequent Pacific campaigns. Their effectiveness paved the way for the expansion of Marine scout dog units in later conflicts, including the Korean and Vietnam Wars.

The 26th Marines Regimental Scout Sniper unit was an elite reconnaissance and precision marksmanship element within the 26th Marine Regiment, United States Marine Corps, during the Vietnam War. Tasked with gathering vital battlefield intelligence and engaging high-value enemy targets, the Scout Snipers operated in small, highly trained teams, often deep behind enemy lines. They played a crucial role during major operations such as the Siege of Khe Sanh (1968), providing overwatch and eliminating threats to Marine positions. Their expertise in stealth, fieldcraft, and long-range shooting made them a formidable force and a key asset to the regiment's combat effectiveness.

The 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment (2/3), part of the 3rd Marine Division, has a distinguished history within the United States Marine Corps. Originally activated during World War II, the battalion earned honors for its actions in the Pacific, including battles at Bougainville and Guam. In more recent decades, 2/3 has been stationed at Marine Corps Base Hawaii (Kaneohe Bay - KMCAS), deploying to conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan as part of the Global War on Terrorism. The unit is known for its motto "Fortes Fortuna Juvat" ("Fortune Favors the Brave") and its longstanding reputation for operational excellence and adaptability.

The **2nd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion (2nd LAAMB)** is a United States Marine Corps unit specializing in air defense operations. Originally activated as the 2nd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion (2nd LAAD) in the 1980s, it provides close-in, low altitude, surface-to-air weapon support to the Marine Air-Ground Task Force. The battalion has been equipped with systems such as the Stinger missile and has participated in numerous deployments, including Operations Desert Shield/Desert Storm and Operation Iraqi Freedom. In 2023, the unit was redesignated as 2nd LAAMB, reflecting its evolving role in countering modern aerial threats, such as drones and cruise missiles, as part of the Marine Corps’ Force Design 2030 initiative.

The 3rd 8 inch Howitzer Battery (Self-Propelled), often designated as 3rd 8-inch How Bty (SP), was a heavy artillery unit within the Australian Army. Raised in 1967 during the Vietnam War era, the battery was equipped with powerful 8-inch M110 self-propelled howitzers, providing long-range fire support. It was part of the 12th Field Regiment, Royal Australian Artillery, and played a key role in training and readiness for potential deployment in Southeast Asia. Although the battery did not see active combat in Vietnam, it contributed significantly to the modernization and operational capability of Australian artillery forces during its brief existence before being disbanded in 1968.

The 4th Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion (4th LAAD BN) is a United States Marine Corps Reserve unit specializing in short-range air defense. Established in 1972, the battalion’s primary mission is to provide close-in, low altitude, surface-to-air weapons fires in defense of Marine air-ground task forces. Throughout its history, 4th LAAD BN has participated in numerous exercises and operations, including support for Operations Desert Storm and Iraqi Freedom. The battalion is equipped with Stinger missile systems and has earned a reputation for operational excellence within the Marine Corps Reserve community.

The 5th 175mm Gun Battery was a specialized artillery unit equipped with the M107 175mm self-propelled gun, primarily designed for long-range fire support. Activated during the height of the Cold War, the battery contributed to NATO’s deterrence posture in Europe, frequently participating in large-scale field exercises. Its personnel trained extensively in rapid mobility and precision targeting, ensuring the battery could deliver powerful counter-battery and interdiction fire against enemy forces. The unit was eventually inactivated as advanced artillery systems and changing strategic requirements rendered the 175mm gun obsolete.

The 7th Motor Transport Battalion, Charlie Company, has a storied history of providing vital logistical support to Marine Corps operations since its activation. Throughout its service, Charlie Company has played a critical role in transporting troops, equipment, and supplies across challenging terrains and in demanding combat environments. The company notably supported major operations during the Vietnam War and later contributed to missions in the Middle East, demonstrating adaptability and resilience under fire. Renowned for its "Keep 'Em Moving" ethos, Charlie Company has consistently ensured that frontline units receive the resources necessary to accomplish their missions.

Combat Service Support Detachment 21 (CSSD-21) is a United States Marine Corps logistics unit with a distinguished record of providing multifaceted support to Marine Air-Ground Task Forces. Formed to deliver supply, maintenance, transportation, and medical services, CSSD-21 has supported operations and exercises both in the United States and abroad. Notably, the unit played a crucial role in supporting Marine Expeditionary Units during deployments, ensuring sustained combat effectiveness in austere environments. CSSD-21’s adaptability and commitment have made it a vital component in Marine Corps expeditionary logistics and support operations.

El Toro, California, was home to Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) El Toro, a major United States Marine Corps air station established in 1942 during World War II. The base played a critical role as a hub for Marine aviation on the West Coast, supporting operations in the Pacific Theater and later during the Korean and Vietnam Wars. Throughout its history, El Toro hosted numerous Marine aviation units, including fighter and transport squadrons, and served as the headquarters for the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing. The base was decommissioned in 1999, and its military units were relocated, marking the end of an era for Marine Corps aviation in Southern California.

Fox Company, 2nd Battalion, 1st Marines (commonly referred to as Fox 2/1), is a distinguished infantry company within the United States Marine Corps. Originally activated during World War II, the battalion and its companies, including Fox, saw fierce combat in the Pacific campaigns, notably at Guadalcanal and Okinawa. During the Korean War, Fox 2/1 gained renown for its actions at the Battle of Inchon and the Chosin Reservoir. In more recent history, the unit has deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan, participating in major operations such as Operation Phantom Fury in Fallujah and counterinsurgency missions in Helmand Province, continuing its legacy of valor and service.

Headquarters & Headquarters Squadron Air Traffic Control (H&HS ATC), Marine Corps Air Station (Helicopter) Tustin, California, played a critical role in supporting Marine aviation operations during its years of activity. Established to provide air traffic control services, H&HS ATC ensured the safe and efficient movement of countless helicopter flights, particularly those supporting the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing and associated units. Throughout the Cold War and into the post-Vietnam era, the unit managed complex airspace, facilitating both training and operational missions. The unit’s professionalism contributed to MCAS Tustin’s reputation as a vital hub for rotary-wing aviation until the base’s closure in 1999.

**Headquarters and Service Battalion, Training and Audiovisual Support Center (H&S Bn TAVSC)** has played a crucial role in supporting the United States Marine Corps’ training missions since its establishment. Originally formed to provide essential headquarters, administrative, and logistical functions, the unit expanded its mission to include audiovisual and multimedia support to enhance training and operational readiness. Throughout its history, H&S Bn TAVSC has adapted to evolving technologies, integrating advanced audiovisual equipment and digital systems to deliver effective instructional support across the Corps. Its dedicated personnel have contributed significantly to the modernization of Marine Corps training programs, ensuring Marines are prepared for the challenges of modern warfare.

Headquarters and Service Company, 1st Shore Party Battalion, 1st Marine Division (H&S Co, 1st Shore Party Bn, 1st MarDiv) has a storied history supporting Marine Corps amphibious operations. Established during World War II, the battalion played a critical role in logistical and beach support during major Pacific campaigns such as Peleliu and Okinawa. In the Korean War, its Marines facilitated the rapid landing and movement of troops and supplies, notably during the Inchon landing and Chosin Reservoir campaign. Over the decades, H&S Co has continued to provide essential command, control, and administrative support, enabling the battalion’s mission of ensuring the swift movement of personnel, equipment, and supplies from ship to shore in both combat and humanitarian operations.

Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 267 (HMLA-267), originally activated as Marine Observation Squadron 6 (VMO-6) in 1944, has a storied history of providing close air support, armed reconnaissance, and utility support for the United States Marine Corps. The unit has participated in major conflicts such as the Korean War, the Vietnam War, Operations Desert Storm, Iraqi Freedom, and Enduring Freedom, adapting through multiple aircraft transitions from observation planes to helicopters. Redesignated as HML-267 in 1966, and later as HMLA-267, the squadron now operates the AH-1Z Viper and UH-1Y Venom helicopters. Based at Marine Corps Air Station Camp Pendleton, California, HMLA-267 continues to serve as a premier light attack helicopter squadron, supporting Marine Air Ground Task Force operations worldwide.

**Marine Helicopter Training Squadron 301 (HMT-301)** was a United States Marine Corps helicopter training squadron activated in 1966 at Marine Corps Air Station Tustin, California. The unit’s primary mission was to provide advanced training to Marine pilots and crew in the operation of the Sikorsky CH-53 Sea Stallion and CH-46 Sea Knight helicopters. HMT-301 played a vital role in preparing aircrews for combat and operational deployments during the Vietnam War and throughout the 1970s and 1980s. The squadron was deactivated in 1990 as part of a broader restructuring of Marine Corps aviation training assets.

Marine Air Control Squadron 8 (MACS-8) was a United States Marine Corps aviation command and control unit. Originally activated during World War II in 1944 as Air Warning Squadron 18, the unit was redesignated as MACS-8 in 1955. MACS-8 provided air surveillance, control of aircraft, and early warning capabilities, notably serving during the Vietnam War and participating in operations at several key Marine Corps air stations, including MCAS El Toro and MCAS Iwakuni. The squadron contributed to the development and deployment of advanced radar and air control systems before its deactivation in 1971.

Marine Aircraft Group 42 (MAG-42) was a United States Marine Corps Reserve aviation unit, established to provide assault support, attack, and utility helicopter capabilities. Within MAG-42, Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 773 (HMLA-773), nicknamed "Red Dogs," operated UH-1Y Venom and AH-1Z Viper helicopters. HMLA-773 traces its origins to 1958 and has seen multiple activations for both domestic operations and overseas deployments, including support for Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. The squadron's mission has included close air support, armed escort, and reconnaissance, exemplifying the flexibility and readiness of Marine Corps Reserve aviation forces.

Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 12 (MALS-12), based at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, provides aviation logistics support to Marine Aircraft Group 12 and other forward-deployed aviation units in the Western Pacific. Originally activated during World War II, MALS-12 has supported numerous operations in the Asia-Pacific region, including the Korean War, Vietnam War, and ongoing joint exercises with allied forces. The squadron specializes in intermediate-level maintenance, aviation supply, and ordnance support, ensuring mission readiness for deployed aircraft. As a critical logistics hub, MALS-12 continues to enhance U.S. Marine Corps aviation capabilities in support of regional stability and security.

Marine Barracks Annapolis, MD, was established in 1845 to provide security and ceremonial support for the United States Naval Academy. As one of the oldest Marine posts in continuous operation, the Barracks is responsible for training and mentoring Midshipmen in military skills, discipline, and leadership. Marines stationed at Annapolis support Academy events, provide honor guards for ceremonies, and ensure the safety of the grounds. Over its history, Marine Barracks Annapolis has played a vital role in shaping future Navy and Marine Corps officers while upholding the traditions of the Corps.

Marine Barracks, Bangor, Washington, was established in 1977 to provide security for the U.S. Navy’s Strategic Weapons Facility Pacific (SWFPAC) at Naval Submarine Base Bangor. The unit’s primary mission is the protection of the Navy’s strategic assets, including nuclear weapons and ballistic missile submarines. Marines assigned to Bangor receive specialized training in security, anti-terrorism, and nuclear weapons handling procedures. Over the decades, Marine Barracks Bangor has played a crucial role in ensuring the safety and operational readiness of one of the nation’s most vital strategic deterrent forces.

Marine Barracks Naval Station 32nd Street, San Diego, California, was established to provide security, ceremonial duties, and support for naval operations at the bustling Pacific Fleet base. The unit played a pivotal role in safeguarding critical infrastructure and personnel, particularly during World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War, as San Diego served as a major staging and training hub. Marines assigned to the Barracks conducted guard duties, law enforcement, and maintained readiness for rapid deployment. Over the decades, the unit contributed significantly to base security while upholding the traditions of the United States Marine Corps in one of the Navy’s most important West Coast installations.

Marine Barracks, Key West, FL, was established in 1823 to provide security for the newly created naval station and to help suppress piracy in the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico. The Marines stationed at Key West played a vital role in protecting American interests and maintaining order in the region during the 19th century, especially during the Seminole Wars and the Civil War. Throughout its active years, the barracks served as a base for Marine detachments supporting naval operations and coastal defense. The installation was eventually deactivated as military priorities shifted, but its legacy remains part of the rich military history of Key West and the U.S. Marine Corps.

The Marine Detachment (MARDET) aboard USS Midway (CV-41) was established to provide security, ceremonial duties, and support for shipboard operations. Activated with the commissioning of the carrier in 1945, the MARDET played a key role during major conflicts, including the Korean and Vietnam Wars, manning gun stations and overseeing the security of nuclear weapons. Marines from the detachment also participated in humanitarian missions and liberty port security throughout the ship’s decades-long service. The MARDET was eventually deactivated in the late 1990s as the Navy phased out Marine detachments from aircraft carriers.