Good morning Leathernecks, and on this the 13th day of October in the history of our beloved Corps:
In 1775, Congress directs the acquisition, fitting out, and manning of two vessels for the Continental Navy.
Since Marines are a normal part of a warship’s complement, this is the first (albeit indirect) authorization for the enlistment of Continental Marines.
In 1836, Marines and sailors from the Vandalia launch a boat expedition from Key West to Cape Florida and then up the Miami River, returning to the ship on 9 December.
In 1911, A small detachment of Marines and sailors from the gunboat Helena goes ashore at Hankow, China, to protect the U.S. consulate and American lives and businesses following the overthrow of the Manchu Dynasty.
In 1942, a convoy deposits the Army’s 164th Infantry regiment at Guadalcanal and takes off the depleted 1st Raider Battalion for recuperation in New Caledonia.
That night, two Japanese battleships bombard Henderson Field, destroying half of the Cactus Air Force and large quantities of aviation gasoline.
In 1943, Italy declares war on Germany, although it provides no forces to join in the Allied war effort.
In 1944, VAC headquarters moves from the Marianas to Hawaii to begin planning for the Iwo Jima operation.
In 1945, elements of the 1st Marines disperse Chinese mobs attacking Japanese civilians in Tientsin.
In 1951, tests of a flak jacket designed to protect the wearer from shrapnel and low-velocity bullets are completed with a handful of Marines and soldiers in Korea.
The Navy-designed vest is soon slated for production.
In 1954, the South Vietnamese government orders the creation of a Marine Corps (VNMC) of 1,137 men.
In 1958, VMA-212 and 214 fly 4,800 miles from Hawaii to Japan, the first ever squadron-strength trans-pacific flight by Navy or Marine fighter-type aircraft.
In 1966, Marine Attack Squadron 211 was awarded the Republic of Vietnam Armed Forces Gallantry Cross for Vietnam Service 13 October 1965 through 13 July 1966
In 1985, a CH-46 crashes off Camp Lejeune killing 14 Marines and a Navy chaplain.
Saepius Exertus, Semper Fidelis, Frater Infinitas!
Often Tested, Always Faithful, Brothers Forever!
-Richard W. Pettengill, Corporal USMC
And damn proud of it!