Intro
Discover the heroic history of the 2nd Battalion 6th Marines, a legendary unit of the US Marine Corps. Learn 7 key facts about this elite fighting force, from its activation in 1917 to its courageous battles in WWI, WWII, and the Vietnam War, and uncover the significance of its iconic Fighting Sixth nickname.
The 2nd Battalion, 6th Marines (2/6) is an infantry battalion in the United States Marine Corps based out of Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. The battalion consists of approximately 1,200 Marines and Sailors and is part of the 6th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division.
Here are 7 facts about the 2nd Battalion, 6th Marines:
Fact #1: Activation and Deactivation
The 2nd Battalion, 6th Marines was activated on July 11, 1917, at Quantico, Virginia, as part of the 6th Marine Regiment. The battalion saw extensive combat during World War I, participating in battles such as Belleau Wood and the Meuse-Argonne Offensive. After the war, the battalion was deactivated on August 20, 1919.
Fact #2: Interwar Period and World War II
The 2nd Battalion, 6th Marines was reactivated on November 15, 1925, at Quantico, Virginia. During the interwar period, the battalion participated in various training exercises and deployments. In 1940, the battalion deployed to Iceland, where it remained until 1942. The battalion then deployed to the Pacific Theater, participating in the Battle of Tarawa and the Battle of Saipan.
Fact #3: Korean War and Vietnam War
The 2nd Battalion, 6th Marines deployed to Korea in 1950, participating in the Battle of Inchon and the Battle of Chosin Reservoir. The battalion then deployed to Vietnam in 1965, participating in various combat operations, including the Battle of Hue City.
Fact #4: Gulf War and War on Terror
The 2nd Battalion, 6th Marines deployed to Saudi Arabia in 1990, participating in Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm. The battalion then deployed to Afghanistan in 2004, participating in combat operations against the Taliban. In 2007, the battalion deployed to Iraq, participating in combat operations against insurgent forces.
Fact #5: Awards and Decorations
The 2nd Battalion, 6th Marines has received numerous awards and decorations, including:
- Presidential Unit Citation
- Navy Unit Commendation
- Meritorious Unit Commendation
- French Croix de Guerre
- World War I Victory Medal
- World War II Victory Medal
- Korean Service Medal
- Vietnam Service Medal
- Southwest Asia Service Medal
- Afghanistan Campaign Medal
- Iraq Campaign Medal
Fact #6: Notable Marines
Several notable Marines have served in the 2nd Battalion, 6th Marines, including:
- General James L. Jones, 32nd Commandant of the Marine Corps
- General John F. Kelly, 28th Secretary of Homeland Security
- General Joseph F. Dunford Jr., 19th Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff
- General Robert Neller, 37th Commandant of the Marine Corps
Fact #7: Current Mission
The 2nd Battalion, 6th Marines is currently based out of Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, and falls under the 6th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division. The battalion's current mission is to provide a forward-deployed, globally responsive force capable of conducting a wide range of military operations.
Gallery of 2nd Battalion 6th Marines:
2nd Battalion 6th Marines Image Gallery
FAQs:
What is the 2nd Battalion, 6th Marines?
+The 2nd Battalion, 6th Marines is an infantry battalion in the United States Marine Corps based out of Camp Lejeune, North Carolina.
What is the mission of the 2nd Battalion, 6th Marines?
+The mission of the 2nd Battalion, 6th Marines is to provide a forward-deployed, globally responsive force capable of conducting a wide range of military operations.
What awards has the 2nd Battalion, 6th Marines received?
+The 2nd Battalion, 6th Marines has received numerous awards and decorations, including the Presidential Unit Citation, Navy Unit Commendation, and Meritorious Unit Commendation.
We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive understanding of the 2nd Battalion, 6th Marines. Whether you're a history buff, a military enthusiast, or simply someone interested in learning more about the Marine Corps, we hope this article has been informative and engaging. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to share them with us.