Good morning Leathernecks, and on this the 22nd day of August in the history of our beloved Corps:
In 1912, Congress authorizes an increase in the size of the Marine Corps to 348 officers and 9,921 enlisted men.
This marks the first time the Corps is allowed to exceed 10,000 personnel.
In 1942, the 4th Marine Base Defense Air Wing is organized at Ewa, Hawaii.
It is eventually redesignated 4th MAW.
The first Army Air Forces aircraft arrive at Henderson Field-five Bell Airacobra P-400 fighter planes of the 67th Fighter Squadron.
In 1944, the 3rd Marine Division is assigned to Guam Island Command to continue mopping up operations.
Numerous Japanese holdouts resist until December 1945.
The last of them come out of hiding in 1960.
In 1952, the Army adopts the Marine flak vest and orders 25,000 copies.
In 1960, during the period 22 through 24 August, Marines participated in OPERATION CHARGER, the largest reserve exercise conducted to date, takes place at 29 Palms.
It involves 13 ground units and 9 squadrons, plus regular forces from Force Troops, 1st Marine Division, and 3rd MAW.
In 1968, Communist forces launch their third phase offensive with attacks on bridges, mortar barrages, and ground assaults in the area around Da Nang.
They are driven off in each case before causing serious damage.
In 1970, Marine individual and team shooters win 20 out of 24 matches in the National Rifle and Pistol Championships at Camp Perry, Ohio.
For the first time in 14 years, the Marines win both the National Trophy Rifle and National Trophy Pistol matches.
In 1990, President Bush orders the mobilization of reserve forces to support OPERATION DESERT SHIELD.
More than 31,000 Marine reservists will ultimately be mobilized for service around the world.
Saepius Exertus, Semper Fidelis, Frater Infinitas!
Often Tested, Always Faithful, Brothers Forever!
-Richard W. Pettengill, Corporal USMC
And damn proud of it!