History of Our Corps – May 20

Good morning Leathernecks, and on this the 20th day of May in the history of our beloved Corps:

In 1919, Squadron C of the former 1^st Marine Aviation Force arrives in Quantico for duty.

In 1942, Cunningham Field is commissioned at Cherry Point, North Carolina.

          It is capable of supporting a MAW.

In 1944, VMS-3 is deactivated on the Virgin Islands.

In 1946, the 8^th Military Police Battalion (Provisional) is redesignated Marine Barracks Okinawa.

In 1951, Eight Army reserves stabilize the Chinese penetration.

In 1955, the U.S. Navy, with assistance from Marine forces, completes the transfer of nearly 300,000 anti-communist refugees from North Vietnam to South Vietnam.

In 1961, HMR(L)-262 and BLT 3/6 provide assistance after an earthquake in Marmaris, Turkey.

In 1964, Marine Advisory Team One arrives in Vietnam.

          Headed by Major Alfred M. Gray, Jr. its 30 communicators and 76 infantrymen (the latter of Company G, 2ndBattalion, 3rd Marines) become the first Marine ground unit to operate as a unit in the Vietnam War.

          It provides radio support to South Vietnamese forces.

In 1966, during the period 20 through 22 May, the 3rd^t Battalion, 7^th Marines (3/7) and the 2nd Battalion, ARVN 4^th Regiment participated in OPERATION MORGAN, search and destroy operation in the Quang Ngai Province.

In 1993, VMO-2 is deactivated at Camp Pendleton as part of the phase-out of the OV-1o.

In 1999, VMFA(AW)-332 and 533 begin flying in support of Operation Allied Forces from bases in Hungary.

Saepius Exertus, Semper Fidelis, Frater Infinitas!

Often Tested, Always Faithful, Brothers Forever!

-Richard W. Pettengill, Corporal USMC

And damn proud of it!