2nd bat 3rd marines 1st marine brigade

• World War II Origins: The 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marines (2/3) was first activated on June 1, 1942 at New River, North Carolina, and quickly became part of the 3rd Marine Division. • Bougainville Campaign: 2/3 participated in its first major combat operation during the Bougainville Campaign in the Solomon Islands in November 1943. • Guam Liberation: In July 1944, 2/3 played a significant role in the liberation of Guam, engaging in fierce combat and helping secure the island from Japanese forces. • Vietnam War Deployment: The battalion was deployed to Vietnam in 1965 as part of the 1st Marine Brigade, conducting operations in areas like Da Nang, Chu Lai, and Khe Sanh. • Operation Starlite: In August 1965, 2/3 participated in Operation Starlite, the first major offensive regimental size action by a purely American unit during the Vietnam War. • Humanitarian Missions: Over the years, 2/3 has been called upon for humanitarian and disaster relief missions, including operations in the Philippines and Southeast Asia. • Gulf War Standby: While not deployed in combat during Operation Desert Storm, elements of the battalion were positioned in readiness for possible deployment. • Global War on Terror: After 9/11, 2/3 deployed multiple times to Afghanistan and Iraq, engaging in combat operations and nation-building efforts. • Notable Alumni: Several Marines who served in 2/3 have gone on to distinguished military and civilian careers, including Medal of Honor recipients and high-ranking officers. • Deactivation and Legacy: The battalion was deactivated in 2022 as part of Force Design 2030 modernization efforts, but its legacy of "Island Warriors" continues to inspire Marines today.