Good morning Leathernecks, and on this the 14th day of June in the history of our beloved Corps:
FLAG DAY
In 1777, Congress adopts the Stars and Stripes as the national flag.
In 1847, Captain Edson’s battalion assists Perry’s landing brigade in moving up the Tabasco River and seizing San Juan Bautista, Mexico.
In 1898, two companies of Marines advance two miles and defeat a larger enemy force at Cuzco Wells.
After destroying the well, the only water supply in the vicinity of the Marines base, the companies return to their camp.
Sergeant John H. Quick later receives the Medal of Honor for signaling the fire support ship while under fire.
In 1917, the 5th Regiment sails for France.
It arrives at St. Nazaire on the 26th and comes under the command of the American Expeditionary Force (AEF).
The regiment is assigned to the U.S. Army’s 1st Division in excess of division tables of organization.
In 1934, the Marine Corps authorizes a resumption of drill pay for reserve training.
During this period, the Corps also does away with the regimental echelon and relies on separate battalions as its largest reserve units.
In 1942, the advance echelon of the 1st Marine Division arrives in New Zealand.
In 1945, a detachment of the 51st Defense Battalion moves from Eniwetok Atoll to Kwajalein.
In 1951, the 1st Battalion, 8th Marines (reinforced) departs Morehead City to become the landing force of the Sixth Fleet.
It will return on 30 September.
In 1959, Marines and Forest Service personnel battle a forest fire on the base.
In 1985, Commandant Kelley directs a pilot program to train MAUs for some special operations.
Following a lengthy training and evaluation program, 26th MAU is redesignated special operation capable and becomes the first MAU (SOC) in December.
Saepius Exertus, Semper Fidelis, Frater Infinitas!
Often Tested, Always Faithful, Brothers Forever!
-Richard W. Pettengill, Corporal USMC
And damn proud of it!