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History of 4th Marine Div

The 4th Marine Division of the United States Marine Corps was activated in August 1943 during World War II. It is renowned for its pivotal role in the Pacific Theater, participating in major amphibious assaults at Roi-Namur, Saipan, Tinian, and Iwo Jima. The division earned a distinguished reputation for its combat effectiveness and bravery, suffering heavy casualties while achieving critical objectives. After World War II, the division was deactivated but later reactivated as a reserve force, continuing its legacy of readiness and excellence in subsequent decades.

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ABOUT 4th Marine Div

  • Formation in World War II: The 4th Marine Division was activated on August 16, 1943 at Camp Pendleton, California, specifically for service in World War II.
  • First Combat at Kwajalein: The Division's first combat operation was the battle for Roi-Namur in the Kwajalein Atoll, January-February 1944, marking the first time a Marine division deployed directly into combat from the United States.
  • Four Major Amphibious Assaults: The 4th Marine Division uniquely participated in four major amphibious landings: Roi-Namur, Saipan, Tinian, and Iwo Jima.
  • Presidential Unit Citation: The Division was awarded the Presidential Unit Citation for its extraordinary heroism during the battle of Iwo Jima.
  • Famous Photograph: Several Marines from the 4th Division participated in the iconic flag-raising on Mount Suribachi, Iwo Jima.
  • High Casualties: During the battle of Iwo Jima, the 4th Marine Division suffered over 9,000 casualties, including more than 1,700 killed in action.
  • Deactivation and Reactivation: The Division was deactivated in November 1945 but was reactivated in 1966 as a reserve unit, known today as the "Fighting Fourth."
  • Medal of Honor Recipients: Seventeen Marines and one Navy corpsman from the 4th Division received the Medal of Honor for their actions during World War II.
  • Reserve Component: Today, the 4th Marine Division is the ground combat element of the Marine Forces Reserve, comprising reserve units from across the United States.
  • Distinctive Insignia: Its insignia features a gold "4" inside a scarlet diamond, symbolizing the Division's numerical designation and its service in the Pacific Theater.

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