Good morning Leathernecks, and on this the 2nd day of October in the history of our beloved Corps:
In 1898, The Marine Barracks at Port Royal recovers from a severe tropical storm.
In 1918, Marines participated in the Battle of Blanc Mont in France.
Marines conduct their first aerial resupply mission, dropping food to a surrounded French regiment.
In 1942, Major J.L. Smith shot down his 18th Zero.
He was the highest scoring ace to date.
In 1943, the Australians retake Finschhafen in New Guinea.
In 1944, the remnants of the 1st Marines depart Peleliu for Pavuvu.
In 1952, the Chinese make night attacks against Outposts Warsaw and Seattle, taking both objectives.
Marine counterattacks before dawn the next day regain Warsaw, but not Seattle.
The division’s losses are 13 killed and 88 wounded.
In 1955, on these the 2nd through the 13th days of October elements of 2nd MAW, including HMR-153 and 252, aid in rescue work in Tampico, Mexico, following a flood.
In 1963, HMM-361 replaces HMM-261 as the Shufly force.
In 1965, during the period 2 through 4 October, the 3rd Battalion, 7th Marines (3/7) participated in OPERATION QUICK DRAW, a search and destroy operation in the Quang Ngai Province.
In 1970, during the period 2 through 17 January 1970, the 5th Marines participated in OPERATION TOLARE FALLS, a search and clear operation in the Quang Nam Province.
Saepius Exertus, Semper Fidelis, Frater Infinitas!
Often Tested, Always Faithful, Brothers Forever!
-Richard W. Pettengill, Corporal USMC
And damn proud of it!