About this Unit
The 2nd Marine Expeditionary Force (2nd MEF), often referred to historically as the 2nd Fleet Marine Force (2nd FMF), was established in 1941 to provide a powerful amphibious force in the Atlantic theater during World War II. Throughout the war, the unit participated in key operations, including the battles of Tarawa, Saipan, Tinian, and Okinawa, earning distinction for its combat effectiveness and adaptability. Following WWII, the 2nd FMF continued to serve as a core element of U.S. Marine Corps readiness, evolving into the modern 2nd MEF and supporting operations in Korea, the Middle East, and global crisis response. Today, headquartered at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, the 2nd MEF remains a vital component of America’s rapid deployment and expeditionary warfare capability.
Historical Facts
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Origins during World War II: The 2nd Marine Division, also known as the 2nd Marine Expeditionary Force (MEF) or 2nd Fleet Marine Force (FMF), was activated in 1941 and played a pivotal role in the Pacific Theater.
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Tarawa Assault: The 2nd Marine Division led the assault on Betio Island, Tarawa Atoll, in November 1943. The battle became infamous for its ferocity and high casualties, helping to shape future amphibious assault doctrine.
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Saipan and Tinian Campaigns: The 2nd FMF was instrumental in the capture of Saipan and Tinian in 1944, which provided airfields critical for the strategic bombing of Japan.
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Post-WWII Occupation: After Japan’s surrender, the 2nd FMF participated in the occupation of Nagasaki, helping to stabilize the region and facilitate reconstruction.
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Korean War Readiness: Though not deployed as a whole to Korea, the 2nd FMF provided vital personnel and units to reinforce Marine forces in the Korean War.
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Grenada and Beirut: Elements of the 2nd FMF participated in Operation Urgent Fury (Grenada, 1983) and peacekeeping operations in Beirut, Lebanon, in the early 1980s, including during the tragic 1983 barracks bombing.
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Desert Storm: The 2nd Marine Division (2nd FMF) was a key component of the coalition ground forces in Operation Desert Storm, leading the liberation of Kuwait in 1991.
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Humanitarian Missions: The 2nd FMF has been involved in numerous humanitarian and disaster relief operations, including in Haiti (Operation Uphold Democracy, 1994) and after Hurricane Katrina (2005).
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OIF and OEF Deployments: The 2nd FMF has deployed thousands of Marines and sailors to Iraq and Afghanistan, participating in major operations such as the Battle of Fallujah and counterinsurgency in Helmand Province.
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Home Base at Camp Lejeune: The 2nd FMF is headquartered at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, and is renowned for its amphibious warfare expertise, rapid deployment capabilities, and storied traditions.
