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History of 1st marines

The 1st Marines, also known as the 1st Marine Regiment, is one of the oldest and most decorated regiments in the United States Marine Corps. Activated in 1913, the regiment saw early service in the Caribbean and later distinguished itself during World War II, notably at Guadalcanal, Peleliu, and Okinawa. During the Korean War, the 1st Marines played a key role in the Inchon landing and the Chosin Reservoir campaign. The regiment has since served in Vietnam, the Gulf War, and more recent operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, continuing its legacy of valor and service.

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ABOUT 1st marines

  • Oldest Active Marine Regiment: The 1st Marine Regiment, known as "1st Marines," was activated on March 1, 1941, making it one of the oldest and most storied regiments in the United States Marine Corps.
  • Nickname - "The First of the First": The regiment is often called "The First of the First" because it is the first regiment of the 1st Marine Division.
  • Guadalcanal Heroics: The 1st Marines played a crucial role in the Battle of Guadalcanal during World War II, enduring harsh jungle conditions and fierce Japanese resistance in 1942.
  • Purple Heart Ridge: During the Battle of Peleliu, the 1st Marines suffered such heavy casualties on a ridge that it became known as "Bloody Nose Ridge" or "Purple Heart Ridge."
  • Chosin Reservoir Legend: In the Korean War, the 1st Marines were part of the legendary "Chosin Few" who fought their way out of encirclement at the Chosin Reservoir in freezing temperatures.
  • Vietnam War Service: The regiment participated in numerous major operations during the Vietnam War, including Operation Starlite, the first major U.S. ground operation of the conflict.
  • Grenada and Gulf War: The 1st Marines redeployed to the Middle East for Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm in 1990-1991, helping liberate Kuwait from Iraqi occupation.
  • Iraq and Afghanistan Deployments: In the 21st century, the 1st Marines have been repeatedly deployed for combat operations in Iraq (notably during the Battle of Fallujah) and Afghanistan.
  • Presidential Unit Citations: The regiment has been awarded multiple Presidential Unit Citations for extraordinary heroism in action, including for their actions at Guadalcanal, Peleliu, Okinawa, and Chosin Reservoir.
  • Symbolic Insignia: The 1st Marines' insignia features a blue diamond with the numeral "1" and the word "Guadalcanal," signifying their storied heritage and sacrifice during World War II.

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