JON LOCKETT

8TH MARINES

U.S. Marine Corps

The 8th Marine Regiment, known as the "8th Marines," was activated in 1917 and is a distinguished infantry unit of the United States Marine Corps. It gained fame during World War II as part of the 2nd Marine Division, participating in key battles such as Guadalcanal, Tarawa, Saipan, and Tinian. In the decades since, the 8th Marines have served in numerous conflicts, including the Gulf War, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. Renowned for their courage and adaptability, the regiment has played a vital role in projecting U.S. military power and upholding Marine Corps traditions around the world.

The 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (3/8), known as "America's Battalion," was activated in 1940 and has a storied history of service in the United States Marine Corps. The battalion saw extensive combat in World War II, participating in pivotal battles such as Guadalcanal, Tarawa, Saipan, Tinian, and Okinawa. During the Global War on Terror, 3/8 deployed multiple times to Iraq and Afghanistan, including operations in Fallujah and Helmand Province. The unit has also conducted humanitarian and peacekeeping missions around the world, upholding a legacy of readiness and valor before its deactivation in 2021.