Michael Chiarodo

USMC

U.S. Marine Corps

The USMC stands for the United States Marine Corps. It is a branch of the United States Armed Forces responsible for providing power projection from the sea, using the mobility of the U.S. Navy to rapidly deliver combined-arms task forces. The USMC is known for its training, discipline, and elite status as a fighting force, often being called upon for rapid response missions and expeditionary operations. The Marine Corps is made up of highly skilled and dedicated individuals who uphold the values of honor, courage, and commitment.

3rd Marine Division

U.S. Marine Corps

The 3rd Marine Division is a unit of the United States Marine Corps based at Camp Courtney in Okinawa, Japan. It is one of three active duty divisions in the Marine Corps and is tasked with conducting amphibious and expeditionary operations in the Pacific region. The division is made up of approximately 16,000 Marines and sailors, organized into regiments, battalions, and companies. The 3rd Marine Division has a long and storied history, participating in numerous campaigns and battles throughout its existence.

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.