Originally Posted December 10, 2024
Good morning Leathernecks, and on this the 10th day of December in the history of our beloved Corps:
In 1835, four Marines from the frigate Brandywine go ashore in Peru and proceed to Lima to protect the American Consulate.
The remainder of the Marine detachment would join them on 17 December.
The force would return to its ship on 24 January.
In 1941, with no weapon larger than a .30 caliber MG, 153 Marines defended Guam until they were overwhelmed.
In 1943, the Cape Torokina Airfield is declared operational.
The F4U Corsairs of VMF-216 fly in to make it their home, but for the near future, aircraft based in New Georgia will simply stage through this intermediate base for refueling.
In 1944, MBDAG-43 is redesignated MAG-43.
In 1946, the provisional detachments at Wake Island and Eniwetok Atoll are disbanded.
The Kwajalein unit is redesignated a Marine Barracks.
A Marine R5C transport disappears during a flight over Washington State with 43 Marines on board.
The wreckage is discovered in July 1947 South Tahoma Glacier.
In 1950, the front of the 1st Marine Division reaches Chinhung-ni while the rear guard is still in Koto-ri.
That night, the brakes of a tank lock on the one-lane road and ultimately seven M-26 Pershings are abandoned at the tail of the column.
VMF-311 arrives at Yonpo airfield and flies the first Marine Corps jet combat missions with its F9F-2 Panthers.
In 1971, elements of the Seventh Fleet, including part of the 31st MAU, depart Vietnamese waters, heading toward the Indian Ocean for possible rescue of American citizens as a result of the war between India and Pakistan.
The ships will remain in the area through 7 January 1972.
Saepius Exertus, Semper Fidelis, Frater Infinitas!
Often Tested, Always Faithful, Brothers Forever!
-Richard W. Pettengill, Corporal USMC
And damn proud of it!