Originally Posted June 23, 2024
Good morning Leathernecks, and on this the 23rd day of June in the history of our beloved Corps:
In 1836, after a march of 224 miles in 14 days, Henderson’s outfit arrives at Columbus, Georgia.
The Creek Indians in that region also now are resisting relocation to the western United States.
In 1918, the Marine Brigade resumes the attack and drives out the last Germans in Belleau Wood by the 25th.
In 1938, President Roosevelt signs legislation providing that the active duty strength of the Marine Corps should be 20 percent of the active-duty enlisted strength of the Navy.
That adds 97 billets to the 27,400 already authorized for the Marine Corps.
Congress does not provide sufficient funding for that number, however.
In 1944, the 27th Infantry assumes responsibility for the center of the corps zone on Saipan.
All three divisions make minimal progress.
In 1945, Army General Joseph W. Stillwell arrives on the island and assumes command of the Tenth Army in place of General Geiger.
The 1st and 6th Marine Divisions participate in a mop up of southern Okinawa, in which the five assault divisions turnabout and slowly begin to sweep over the ground they had taken in preceding weeks.
In the evening, the Japanese launch their tenth wave of kamikaze attacks.
In 1946, the 10th Marines sails for the United States.
In 1947, in response from criticism from some congressmen, Secretary of the Navy James V. Forrestal issues a message to the naval services that officers are free to express their private views on the unification bill before congress.
A number of senior leaders go on record against the unification bill in its present form.
In 1967, twenty Marines die when two helicopters collide over Camp Lejeune.
In 1968, Operation Cameron Falls, the search and clear mission, headed by the 9th Marines and concentrated in the area southeast of Khe Sanh results in 120 enemy killed. During the 24-day operation, Marine losses are 24 dead and 137 wounded.
Saepius Exertus, Semper Fidelis, Frater Infinitas!
Often Tested, Always Faithful, Brothers Forever!
-Richard W. Pettengill, Corporal USMC
And damn proud of it!