Good morning Leathernecks, and on this the 5th day of October in the history of our beloved Corps:
In 1775, The Continental Congress mentions Marines for the first time when it directs Washington to give “proper encouragement to the “Marines and seamen” serving on two armed vessels under “Continental risqué and pay.”
In 1858, Marines participated in the Second Fiji expedition was a United States Navy operation against the native warriors of Seru Epenisa Cakobau on the island of Waya in Fiji.
Following the death of two American traders on Waya, the Pacific Squadron launched a punitive expedition against the Wayans and defeated them in a pitched battle at the village of Somatti.
In 1912, Leon, Nicaragua, was captured by Marines after a short battle.
In 1917, lead elements of the 6th Regiment arrive in France.
In 1940, Secretary of the Navy Frank Knox orders the Organized Reserve to active duty by 9 November.
These units add 236 officers and 5,009enlisted men to the strength of the active Marine Corps.
An airstrip is opened at Parris Island to serve as an outlying field for Quantico-based aviation units.
In 1944, the 5th Marines relieves the 7th Marines around the Umurbrogol Pocket.
In 1950, after being relieved inplace by other forces, the 1st Marine Division moves back to Inchon in preparation for further action.
The division’s losses in the Inchon-Seoul campaign total 411 dead and missing and 2,029 wounded.
In 1967, Marine astronaut Major Clifton C. Williams, Jr., dies when his T-38 jet trainer crashes in Florida.
In 1968, The number of U.S. troops in Vietnam reaches 540,000, of which 84,000 are Marines.
Saepius Exertus, Semper Fidelis, Frater Infinitas!
Often Tested, Always Faithful, Brothers Forever!
-Richard W. Pettengill, Corporal USMC
And damn proud of it!