Marine DET. USS Chicago (CA-29)

The Marine Detachment (Marine DET) aboard USS Chicago (CA-29), a Northampton-class heavy cruiser, was established to provide shipboard security, enforce discipline, and support naval operations during the interwar period and World War II. Throughout its service, the detachment participated in numerous training exercises and operational deployments, particularly in the Pacific theater. The Marines played a vital role during the Battle of Savo Island on August 9, 1942, manning secondary batteries and assisting with damage control as the ship engaged Japanese forces. The detachment continued to serve with distinction until the USS Chicago was sunk during the Battle of Rennell Island in January 1943.