Good morning Leathernecks, and on this the 16th day of June in the history of our beloved Corps:
In 1776, Washington’s fleet and its Marines capture two British troopships trying to reinforce Boston (already abandoned by the British army).
In 1858, twenty Marines help restore order at the jail in Washington, D.C.
In 1898, Marine detachments participate in the North Atlantic Squadron’s bombardment of Santiago, Cuba.
In 1942, the 3rd Marines is reactivated at New River, North Carolina.
In 1944, Vice Admiral Raymond A. Spruance, overall commander of the Marianas Operation, cancels the Guam landing planned for 18 June upon learning that the Japanese fleet has sortied from the Philippines.
The 2nd and 4th Marine Divisions expand their beachhead against continuing fierce resistance.
As part of the redeployment of the fleet for battle, most transports are due to withdraw on 17 June, so Smith orders two-thirds of the 27th Infantry Division landed.
That night, the Japanese launch a major counterattack against the 2nd Marine Division with 44 medium tanks and 500 infantrymen.
The enemy are repulsed with a loss of 31 tanks and 300 men.
In 1945, the 1st Marine Division captures most of the rest of Kunishi Ridge.
In 1946, the 2nd Marine Division turns over responsibility for the occupation of Kyushu to the Army’s 24th Infantry Division.
The 8th Marines departs Japan for the United States.
The Second Separate Guard Battalion (Provisional) at Yokosuka becomes a Marine Barracks.
In 1951, having gained the most defensible terrain along a line running from the Hwachon Reservoir northeast to the Punchbowl, the 1st Marine Division receives orders to dig in and hold.
In 1972, the first Marine F-4s arrive at Nam Phong, Thailand, as part of a re-deployment of combat aircraft from South Vietnam.
VMFA-115 flew the first Marine combat mission out of Nam Phong the next day.
Saepius Exertus, Semper Fidelis, Frater Infinitas!
Often Tested, Always Faithful, Brothers Forever!
-Richard W. Pettengill, Corporal USMC
And damn proud of it!