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History of 1st Marine Division

The 1st Marine Division, activated in February 1941, is the oldest and most decorated division in the United States Marine Corps. It earned its legendary reputation during World War II, particularly at Guadalcanal, Peleliu, and Okinawa. The division also played pivotal roles in the Korean War, most notably during the Battle of Inchon and the Chosin Reservoir. Since then, the 1st Marine Division has served in major conflicts including Vietnam, the Gulf War, Iraq, and Afghanistan, consistently upholding its motto: "No better friend, no worse enemy."

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ABOUT 1st Marine Division

  • Oldest & Largest Active Division: The 1st Marine Division, activated in 1941, is the oldest and largest active duty division in the United States Marine Corps.
  • The “Blue Diamond”: Its nickname, “The Old Breed,” and its distinctive blue diamond insignia were adopted during World War II.
  • Guadalcanal Campaign: The division’s first major combat action was the pivotal 1942 landing on Guadalcanal, a turning point in the Pacific Theater during World War II.
  • Bloody Nose Ridge: In the battle of Peleliu (1944), the division faced fierce Japanese resistance on “Bloody Nose Ridge,” suffering heavy casualties in one of the war’s most brutal battles.
  • Chosin Reservoir Heroics: During the Korean War, the division executed a legendary fighting withdrawal from the Chosin Reservoir in freezing temperatures, earning the nickname “The Chosin Few” for survivors.
  • Vietnam War Operations: From 1965 to 1971, the 1st Marine Division served in Vietnam, fighting in major operations such as Starlite, Hue City, and the Tet Offensive.
  • Presidential Unit Citations: The division has been awarded nine Presidential Unit Citations for extraordinary heroism, more than any other Marine division.
  • Operation Desert Storm: In 1991, the division led the Marine ground attack in Kuwait, breaching Iraqi defenses and liberating Kuwait City.
  • Iraq & Afghanistan Deployments: The division played key roles in the 2003 invasion of Iraq (including the Battle of Nasiriyah and the seizure of Baghdad) and subsequent operations in Iraq and Afghanistan.
  • Notable Members: Famous members include Medal of Honor recipients like John Basilone and Chesty Puller, as well as actor Lee Marvin, who served with the division during World War II.

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