About this Unit
The 6th Marine Regiment Headquarters (HQ) was activated in July 1917 at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, to serve in World War I as part of the American Expeditionary Forces in France. The regiment distinguished itself in key battles such as Belleau Wood, Soissons, and Blanc Mont, earning the French Fourragère for its valor. Reactivated for World War II, the 6th Marines played significant roles in the Pacific campaigns, including Guadalcanal and Okinawa. In the postwar era, the regiment has continued to serve as a vital element of the 2nd Marine Division, participating in operations around the globe and maintaining readiness as a premier infantry regiment in the United States Marine Corps.
Historical Facts
• World War I Origins: The 6th Marine Regiment was activated in July 1917 specifically for service in World War I, forming part of the American Expeditionary Forces in France.
• Battle of Belleau Wood: The regiment gained fame for its valiant actions at the Battle of Belleau Wood in June 1918, earning the nickname "Teufel Hunden" or "Devil Dogs" from German forces.
• Fourragère Award: The 6th Marines, along with the 5th Marines, were awarded the French Fourragère for their bravery in World War I, a decoration still worn today on their uniforms.
• Multiple Presidential Unit Citations: The 6th Marines have received several Presidential Unit Citations for extraordinary heroism in action, including for actions at Tarawa and Okinawa during World War II.
• Key Role in Tarawa: In November 1943, the regiment played a pivotal role in the amphibious assault on Betio Island, Tarawa Atoll, one of the bloodiest battles in Marine Corps history.
• Okinawa Campaign: The regiment participated in the largest amphibious assault in the Pacific theater during World War II, the Battle of Okinawa, helping secure victory against Japanese forces.
• Peacekeeping Operations: The 6th Marines were deployed to Lebanon in 1958 and again in the 1980s for peacekeeping missions, showcasing their versatility in both combat and humanitarian roles.
• Operation Desert Storm: Elements of the 6th Marines participated in the 1991 Gulf War, conducting offensive operations as part of the liberation of Kuwait.
• Global War on Terror: The regiment has been deployed multiple times to Iraq and Afghanistan in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.
• Headquarters Company Traditions: The Headquarters Company of the 6th Marine Regiment is vital for command and control functions, maintaining regimental history and traditions, and supporting ceremonial events, including the annual observance of the Battle of Belleau Wood.
