Gary Arney

**Marine Detachment, USS Bennington (CVS-20), 7th Fleet Marine Force (FMF):** The Marine Detachment aboard USS Bennington (CVS-20) was an integral component of the ship’s complement during her service with the U.S. Navy, particularly as part of the 7th Fleet Marine Force (FMF) in the Pacific theater. Tasked with shipboard security, ceremonial duties, and rapid response in emergencies, the detachment played a vital role during the Cold War era, supporting anti-submarine warfare operations and power projection missions. Marines from the detachment were trained to provide close-in defense of the carrier, as well as to participate in landing parties and amphibious operations if required. Throughout its service, the Marine Detachment exemplified the close cooperation between the Navy and Marine Corps, reinforcing the Bennington’s operational capabilities during deployments in the Western Pacific and beyond.

The 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines (3/5), known as "Darkhorse," is a distinguished infantry battalion of the United States Marine Corps, activated in June 1917. The unit fought valiantly in World War I, notably at the Battle of Belleau Wood and the Meuse-Argonne Offensive. During World War II, 3/5 participated in key battles across the Pacific, including Guadalcanal and Okinawa. In recent history, 3/5 served with distinction in Iraq and Afghanistan, earning recognition for their courage and sacrifice, particularly during the intense fighting in Sangin, Afghanistan, in 2010-2011.