Good morning Leathernecks, and on this the 24th day of October in the history of our beloved Corps:
In 1813, the Marine Barracks is established at Portsmouth Navy Yard, New Hampshire.
In 1901, A provisional battalion under Waller, composed of three companies from the 1st Regiment and a company from the 2nd Regiment, arrives on the island of Samar in the Philippines.
Their mission is to deal with the rebellious Moro natives that have massacred an army infantry company.
In 1915, on the 24th and 25th of October, of October, Major Smedley Butler and a 40-man patrol defeats a night ambush by Cacos in northern Haiti.
Gunnery Sergeant Dan Daly’s heroism will result in his second Medal of Honor.
The Marine Corps Recruit Depot was moved from Norfolk and established at Parris Island, South Carolina.
In 1942, during the period 24 through 26 October, in the battle for Henderson Field, the Sendai Division attacks the position of 1/7 south of the airstrip.
Elements of the 164th Infantry reinforce Marine lines during the night and resume responsibility for the threatened zone the second night.
The Japanese are repulsed with heavy losses.
Another diversionary attack across the Matanikau is defeated by 2/7.
At sea, U.S. naval forces turn back a Japanese fleet in the Battle of Santa Cruz.
In the air on the 25th, Joe Foss shoots down five enemy planes during two sorties, bringing his total kills to 16.
In 1947, VMF-122, the first Marine jet squadron, is organized at Cherry Point under command of Major Marion Carl.
It is equipped with McDonnell FH-1 Phantoms.
In 1952, U.S. forces in Korea face limits on the amount of artillery fire they can use due to shortages of shells.
The Chinese use their temporary advantage in fire power to begin directing heavy bombardments against the Hook, a ridge forming a U-shaped salient, directly in front of the lines of the 7th Marines.
This high terrain affords views deep into the Marine rear area and is thus key terrain.
In 1954, President Eisenhower informs Premier Ngo Dinh Diem of the Bao Dai government that the United States will hereafter provide assistance directly rather than through the French.
In 1967, Marine jets participate in a joint-service raid on Phuc Yen Airfield in North Vietnam. The attack destroys 10 MIGs.
In 1972, the United States halts bombing attacks north of the 20th parallel due to progress in peace talks.
Saepius Exertus, Semper Fidelis, Frater Infinitas!
Often Tested, Always Faithful, Brothers Forever!
-Richard W. Pettengill, Corporal USMC
And damn proud of it!