Intro
Discover the storied history and enduring legacy of the 2nd Battalion 2nd Marines, a revered infantry unit in the US Marine Corps. From World War I to present-day deployments, explore their notable battles, heroic achievements, and unwavering commitment to duty, honor, and country.
The 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marines (2/2) is an infantry battalion in the United States Marine Corps based out of Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. The battalion is part of the 2nd Marine Regiment and the 2nd Marine Division. With a rich history dating back to World War I, 2/2 has played a significant role in various military conflicts, earning numerous accolades and decorations.
Early Years and World War I
The 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marines was activated on July 1, 1925, at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia. However, its lineage dates back to World War I when the 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marines was activated on June 24, 1917. During the war, the battalion saw action in France and participated in several key battles, including the Battle of Belleau Wood.
Interwar Period and World War II
Following the end of World War I, the battalion was deactivated and reactivated several times before being permanently activated in 1935. During the interwar period, the battalion conducted various training exercises and deployments.
In 1942, 2/2 deployed to the Pacific Theater to participate in World War II. The battalion saw action in several key battles, including the Battle of Tarawa and the Battle of Saipan.
Korean War and Vietnam War
During the Korean War, 2/2 deployed to Korea in 1950 and participated in several key battles, including the Battle of Inchon and the Battle of Chosin Reservoir.
In the 1960s, the battalion deployed to Vietnam and participated in several key battles, including the Battle of Hue City and the Battle of Khe Sanh.
Gulf War and War on Terror
In 1990, 2/2 deployed to Saudi Arabia in support of Operation Desert Shield. The battalion later participated in Operation Desert Storm, the liberation of Kuwait.
Following the 9/11 attacks, 2/2 deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. The battalion also deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Legacy and Honors
Throughout its history, 2/2 has earned numerous accolades and decorations, including:
- Presidential Unit Citation (1944, 1969)
- Navy Unit Commendation (1953, 1968, 2003)
- Meritorious Unit Commendation (1967, 1972, 1992)
- Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal (1942-1945)
- World War II Victory Medal (1945)
- National Defense Service Medal (1950-1954, 1961-1974)
- Korean Service Medal (1950-1953)
- Vietnam Service Medal (1965-1971)
- Southwest Asia Service Medal (1990-1991)
- Afghanistan Campaign Medal (2001-2021)
- Iraq Campaign Medal (2003-2011)
Gallery of 2nd Battalion 2nd Marines
2nd Battalion 2nd Marines Image Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marines?
+The 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marines (2/2) is an infantry battalion in the United States Marine Corps based out of Camp Lejeune, North Carolina.
What is the history of the 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marines?
+The 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marines has a rich history dating back to World War I, with deployments in World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, and the War on Terror.
What are the honors and awards of the 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marines?
+The 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marines has earned numerous accolades and decorations, including the Presidential Unit Citation, the Navy Unit Commendation, and the Meritorious Unit Commendation.
We hope this article has provided a comprehensive overview of the 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marines and its rich history. If you have any further questions or would like to learn more, please don't hesitate to reach out.