Good morning Leathernecks, and on this the 21st day of December in the history of our beloved Corps:
In 1913, Congress limits the term of the Commandant to four years, with provision for a reappointment for an additional four years.
In 1944, MAG-12 Corsairs blew up Japanese supply dumps at Palompon, Leyte.
In 1945, the last elements of the 5th Marine Division sail from Sasebo for the United States.
President Truman addresses Congress and advocates the merger of the War and Navy Departments.
The Secretary of the Navy orders Navy and Marine officers not to speak out against unification. Ya gotta wonder how that worked out……
Following a backlash in the media, the directive is modified to allow service personnel to voice their concerns if they are stated as personal views.
In 1966, during the period 19 December through 21 December, the 1st Battalion, 1st Marines participate in Operation Shasta II, a search and destroy mission in the Quang Nam Province.
In 1967, during the period 21 through 24 December 1967, the 3rd Battalion, 1st Marines (3/1) participated in OPERATION FORTRESS RIDGE, a search and destroy operation on the coast of the Go Linh District, 7 Km (4 miles) south of the DMZ.
Special Landing Force B was awarded the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross for action during the period 12 through 24 December
Saepius Exertus, Semper Fidelis, Frater Infinitas!
Often Tested, Always Faithful, Brothers Forever!
-Richard W. Pettengill, Corporal USMC
And damn proud of it!