Good morning Leathernecks, and on this the 29th day of December in the history of our beloved Corps:
In 1812, the Constitution and her Marines defeat the British frigate Java off Brazil.
In 1846, Stockton leads a force of 600 men overland against Los Angeles, with the Marines of his squadron organized as a separate company under Zeilin.
In 1901, Major L. W. T. Waller’s ill-fated “March Across Samar” began.
In 1942, MAG-12 begins moving to Efate, New Hebrides.
The entire group will be there by 28 January 1943.
In 1943, the 5th Marines comes ashore to reinforce the drive on the Cape Gloucester airfields.
That night, the 2nd Battalion, 1st Marines, (2/1) defeats a counterattack on its lines at Tauali by elements of a Japanese battalion.
In 1966, the 11th Motor Transport Battalion was awarded the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry for service 29 December 1966 through 20 September 1969.
Saepius Exertus, Semper Fidelis, Frater Infinitas!
Often Tested, Always Faithful, Brothers Forever!
-Richard W. Pettengill, Corporal USMC
And damn proud of it!