Good morning Leathernecks, and on this the 13th day of May in the history of our beloved Corps:
In 1805, O’Bannon and his Marines help repel an assault on Derna by 1,200 Tripolitan soldiers.
In 1953, as part of the division training program, the 5th Marines conducts an amphibious exercise.
Other regiments take their turn soon after.
In 1958, BLT 1/6 and elements of MAG-26 and MAG-35 deploy with a naval task force off the coast of Venezuela to protect Vice President Richard M. Nixon and party after mobs threaten them during a state visit.
In 1966, the 26th Marines headquarters and the 1st Battalion, 26th Marines assume the defense of the base at Khe Sanh.
They launch OPERATION CROCKETT to prevent the NVA from building up forces in the area.
It lasts until 16 July and kills 206 enemy.
Marine losses are 52 dead and 255 wounded.
In 1967, during the period 13 May through 16 July, the 1st Battalion, 26 Marines (1/26) and the 2nd Battalion, 26th Marines (2/26) participated in OPERATION CRICKETT, a search and destroy operation in the Quang Tri Province.
In 1968, Peace talks begin in Paris between the United States, South Vietnam, and North Vietnam.
In 1972, in the final stages of a NATO exercise, U.S., British, and Greek Marines conduct an amphibious landing in southern Greece.
Saepius Exertus, Semper Fidelis, Frater Infinitas!
Often Tested, Always Faithful, Brothers Forever!
-Richard W. Pettengill, Corporal USMC
And damn proud of it!