Good morning Leathernecks, and on this the 13th day of September in the history of our beloved Corps:
In 1847, Watson’s Marines and sailors drive Mexican forces out of Muleje, Mexico.
In 1946,. Commandant Vandegrift directs the formation of the Special Board, charged with developing “broad concepts and principles” for adapting amphibious assault tactics to the nuclear battlefield.
The senior members of the board are Major General Lem Shepherd (Assistant Commandant), Major General Field Harris (Assistant Commandant for Air), and Brigadier General O. P. Smith (Commandant of the Marine Corps Schools).
In 1948,.the 4th Marines (a reinforced infantry battalion) departs Morehead City to become the landing force of the Sixth Fleet.
The 4th will remain afloat until early 1949.
In 1950, the f1st Marine Brigade sails from Pusan for the Inchon landing. It is deactivated and its forces are absorbed into the 1st Marine Division.
In 1951, the 1st Marine s renew the attack to seize the right half of the ridgeline.
In a battlefield first, HMR-161 brings ten tons of supplies up to the frontlines to help keep the offensive moving forward.
It simultaneously removes 74 casualties.
In 1964, Marine Advisory Team One dissolves and departs Vietnam.
In 1966, As part of OPERATION PRAIRIE, the SLF (now BLT 1/26) makes an amphibious assault just south of the DMZ.
In 12 days the BLT has several significant fights and kills more than 200 enemy at a cost of 36 killed and 167 wounded.
In 1970, President Nixon directs the military services to furnish 8oo personnel (including 90 Marines) for Occupation Grid Square, providing security for U.S. international passenger flights.
In 1985, HMM-166 is activated at Tustin.
Saepius Exertus, Semper Fidelis, Frater Infinitas!
Often Tested, Always Faithful, Brothers Forever!
-Richard W. Pettengill, Corporal USMC
And damn proud of it!