Good morning Leathernecks, and on this the 17th day of June in the history of our beloved Corps:
In 1870, the steamer Mohican sends Marines and sailors to Boca Teacapan, Mexico to destroy a pirate ship.
In 1800, Marines participate in the action between the schooner Enterprise and the French privateer La Cygne off Guadeloupe.
In 1815, Marines in Commodore Stephen Decatur’s squadron assist in the defeat of the Algerian frigate Mashuda.
In 1915, three companies of the 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines in San Diego embark on the cruiser Colorado (CA-7) and remain on station off the west coast of Mexico for six weeks.
In 1916, the Henderson (AP-1), named for the Marine Commandant and the first transport built specifically to carry Marines, is launched at Philadelphia.
In 1944, American forces on Saipan resume their attack, with the Army’s 165th regiment taking over the right flank of the 4th Marine Division zone.
Progress remains slow and averages a thousand yards across the extended front.
In 1945, the 6th Marine Division moves up to assume responsibility for the right half of the 1st Marine Division zone of action.
XXIV Corps captures the commanding ground along the Yaeju Dake-Yuze Dake Escarpment on the eastern side of the Kiyamu Peninsula.
VMF-513 joins the Vella Gulf at San Diego.
In 1947, after submitting his request for retirement, Brigadier General Merritt Edson testifies before the House Committee on Expenditures in the Executive Departments, strongly opposing the unification bill because of a perceived threat to civilian control of the military.
In 1965, the 1st Battalion, 9th Marines relieves the 3rd Battalion, 9th Marines, which returns to Okinawa.
In 1966, during the period 17 through 23 June, the 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines (2/4) participated in OPERATION DODGE, a search and destroy operation in the Quang Tri Province.
Saepius Exertus, Semper Fidelis, Frater Infinitas!
Often Tested, Always Faithful, Brothers Forever!
-Richard W. Pettengill, Corporal USMC
And damn proud of it!