Good morning Leathernecks, and on this the 14th day of December in the history of our beloved Corps:
In 1843, following a dispute with slave traders, Perry’s Marines burn a town in the Ivory Coast.
In 1941 Wake Island defenders were left with one aircraft surviving Japanese attacks.
In 1944, MAG-12 attacks enemy airfields on Luzon and Masbate Islands to reduce Japanese aerial opposition to the pending Mindoro landing.
In 1950, VMF-311 shifts from Yonpo to K-9 airfield near Pusan.
In 1958, nearly 700 Marines of the 2nd Infantry Training Regiment fight brush fires in the San Juan Capistrano area of California.
In 1972, VMA(AW)-224 deploys on board the Coral Sea (CVA-43) on Yankee Station for potential aerial action against North Vietnam.
In 1983, a truck bomb hits the U.S. Embassy in Kuwait.
Although dozens are killed and wounded, none are Americans.
Marine security guards protect the damaged building.
In 2001, elements of the 15th and 26th MEU(SOC)s advance overland and take control of Kandahar Airfield.
It soon becomes the primary detention facility for captured enemy personnel of key interest to the United States.
Marine helicopters also support joint and coalition forces from this base.
Saepius Exertus, Semper Fidelis, Frater Infinitas!
Often Tested, Always Faithful, Brothers Forever!
-Richard W. Pettengill, Corporal USMC
And damn proud of it!