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History of 3rd Bn. 27tth Marines

The 3rd Battalion, 27th Marines (3/27) was activated in January 1966 as part of the 5th Marine Division during the Vietnam War. Deployed to Vietnam in 1968, the battalion participated in significant operations, including Operation Allen Brook and Operation Oklahoma Hills, distinguishing itself in intense combat around the Da Nang area. 3/27 earned a reputation for professionalism and valor, sustaining heavy casualties while inflicting significant losses on enemy forces. The battalion was deactivated in September 1969 as part of the post-war drawdown but remains honored in Marine Corps history for its service and sacrifice.

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ABOUT 3rd Bn. 27tth Marines

  • Formation and World War II: The 3rd Battalion, 27th Marines (3/27) was originally activated on January 10, 1944, as part of the 5th Marine Division during World War II.
  • Iwo Jima Campaign: The battalion played a critical role in the Battle of Iwo Jima, landing on February 19, 1945, and engaging in fierce combat to secure the island.
  • Presidential Unit Citation: For its extraordinary heroism during the Iwo Jima operation, the 3/27 was awarded the Presidential Unit Citation.
  • Deactivation Post-WWII: After the end of WWII, the battalion was deactivated on February 28, 1946, along with the 5th Marine Division.
  • Reactivation for Vietnam War: The 3rd Battalion, 27th Marines was reactivated on January 1, 1966, at Camp Pendleton, California, as part of the Marine Corps’ build-up for the Vietnam War.
  • Tet Offensive Deployment: In 1968, 3/27 was rapidly deployed to Vietnam during the Tet Offensive, engaging in several critical operations in the Quang Nam and Quang Tri provinces.
  • Operation Allen Brook: The battalion participated in Operation Allen Brook (May–June 1968), a major clearing operation on Go Noi Island, facing intense enemy resistance and suffering heavy casualties.
  • Heroic Actions: During Vietnam, Marines from 3/27 earned numerous individual honors, including several Navy Crosses for acts of valor.
  • Brief Existence: The 3/27’s deployment to Vietnam was relatively brief; the unit returned to the United States and was deactivated again on September 13, 1968.
  • Legacy: Though only activated for major wars, the 3rd Battalion, 27th Marines, is remembered for its courage and significant contributions during two of the most pivotal conflicts in Marine Corps history.

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