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History of 4th Dental Battalion

The 4th Dental Battalion is a unit of the United States Marine Corps Reserve, activated on 1 November 1979. It provides dental care and support to Marine Corps and Navy personnel, ensuring operational readiness through oral health. Headquartered in Marietta, Georgia, the battalion is comprised of multiple dental companies and detachments across the eastern United States. The 4th Dental Battalion has supported numerous training exercises and deployments, including overseas operations such as Operation Iraqi Freedom, delivering critical dental services in both combat and humanitarian missions.

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ABOUT 4th Dental Battalion

  • Origins: The 4th Dental Battalion was activated on 4 November 1978 as part of the United States Marine Corps Reserve, providing essential dental support to Marines and sailors.
  • Mission: The battalion’s primary mission is to provide dental care in support of Marine Forces Reserve and augment active forces during wartime or emergencies.
  • Gulf War Service: Elements of the 4th Dental Battalion were deployed during Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm, providing dental and emergency medical care to forward-deployed troops.
  • Humanitarian Assistance: The battalion has a history of participating in humanitarian missions, such as providing dental care to underserved populations in the United States and overseas, including in Central and South America.
  • Joint Operations: 4th Dental Battalion often works in joint operations with Navy medical units and other branches, showcasing interoperability within the Department of Defense.
  • Innovative Field Dentistry: The battalion is trained to provide dental care in austere environments using mobile dental clinics, ensuring readiness regardless of location.
  • Global War on Terror: Since 2001, members have been mobilized for Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom, supporting both combat operations and humanitarian efforts.
  • Reserve Component: The battalion is composed primarily of reservists—civilian dentists, hygienists, and dental assistants who bring civilian expertise to military service.
  • Training Exercises: 4th Dental Battalion regularly participates in exercises such as Innovative Readiness Training (IRT), providing dental care to communities while maintaining military proficiency.
  • Unit Motto: The battalion’s motto, “Service Above Self”, reflects its commitment to caring for Marines, sailors, and civilians wherever and whenever needed.

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