History of Our Corps – October 20

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

In 1847, Marines and sailors from the Portsmouth and Congress land and temporarily seize Guayamas, Mexico.

In 1926, Marines are again assigned to guard the U.S. mail system during a period of increased armed robberies.

In 1943, the 1st Joint Assault Signal Company (1st JASCO) is activated at Camp Pendleton.

          Its mission is to coordinate the fire of supporting arms, including air, during amphibious operations.

          The commander of AIRSOLS displaces his headquarters from Guadalcanal to Munda, New Georgia.

          The headquarters of 2nd MAW moves to Efate in the New Hebrides and begins to serve primarily as a training command.

In 1944, the 322nd Infantry wipes out the last pocket of Japanese resistance on Angaur.

          The 81st Infantry Division assumes responsibility for ground operations on Peleliu in place of IIIAC and the 1st Marine Division.

          Both Marine commanders and their senior staffs depart the island by air; IIIAC to Guadalcanal and the division to Pavuvu.

          The 5th Marines remains ashore attached to the 81st Division.

          The Sixth U.S. Army begins the invasion of Leyte Island in the Philippines.

In 1960, BLT 2/2, VMA-331, and HMR(L)-261 depart for standby duty at Vieques.

          They will return to North Carolina on 17 January 1961.

In 1978, President Carter signs legislation that makes the Commandant a full member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

Saepius Exertus, Semper Fidelis, Frater Infinitas!

Often Tested, Always Faithful, Brothers Forever!

-Richard W. Pettengill, Corporal USMC

And damn proud of it!