Good morning Leathernecks, and on this the 23rd day of July in the history of our beloved Corps:
In 1838, the remaining Marines serving with the Army in Florida return to Washington, D.C.
Marines still serve with the Navy in Florida, primarily with the “Mosquito Fleet” composed of small boats and canoes for patrolling the interior waterways.
This force conducts active operations against the Seminoles for the next four years.
In 1919, the first Marine air attack on Dominican bandits is made near Meta de la Palma.
In 1944, elements of the 3rd Marine Division complete the seizure of Cabras Island, Tinian, Marianas.
The 14th Defense Battalion assumes control of the island.
The 77th Infantry Division begins going ashore and replacing elements of the Marine Brigade in the southern perimeter.
In 1968, during the period 23 through 30 July, BLT 2/7 participated in OPERATION SWIFT PLAY, in which the Marines rode helicopters ashore to an area about 16 Km southwest of An Hoa, deep inland in the Quang Nam Province.
The assault forces spotted several enemy formations, but no engagements resulted.
Saepius Exertus, Semper Fidelis, Frater Infinitas!
Often Tested, Always Faithful, Brothers Forever!
-Richard W. Pettengill, Corporal USMC
And damn proud of it!