Good morning Leathernecks, and on this the 26th day of June in the history of our beloved Corps:
In 1814, Marines assist Captain Joshua Barney’s gunboat fleet in driving off a British attack in the Patuxent River.
In 1862, during the period 26 through 28 June, Marines from several ships participate in a gunboat raid up the Santee River in South Carolina and skirmish with Confederate troops on shore.
In 1942, the 1st Marine Division receives the warning order for an amphibious assault against the Guadalcanal-Tulagi area in the Southern Solomons.
In 1943, the Army assumes responsibility for all barrage balloon missions in the Pacific.
The six Marine balloon squadrons gradually begin to shift over to operating 90mm aircraft guns.
In 1944, during the night, 500 Japanese troops infiltrate the lines of the Army battalion at Nafutan Point and conduct attacks against Aslito Airfield, artillery positions, and a Marine regiment in reserve.
The enemy force is destroyed by dawn the next day.
In 1966, Sergeant James S. Dodson and Lance Corporal Walter Eckes, captured by the Viet Cong in May, manage to escape and return to friendly forces.
In 1968, Iwo Jima is returned to Japanese control.
In 1973, Marines raise the American flag over the U.S. liaison office in Peking during its formal opening following the establishment of diplomatic relations between the United States and Communist China.
In 1987, Sergeant Major David W. Sommers succeeds Sergeant Major Cleary and becomes the 11th Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps.
Saepius Exertus, Semper Fidelis, Frater Infinitas!
Often Tested, Always Faithful, Brothers Forever!
-Richard W. Pettengill, Corporal USMC
And damn proud of it!