Intro
Discover the history and legacy of the 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, a renowned US Marine Corps unit. Explore its deployment, mission, and notable battles, as well as its organization, training, and equipment. Learn about the LAR battalions role in modern warfare and its significance in the US militarys armored reconnaissance capabilities.
The 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, also known as 2nd LAR, is a unit of the United States Marine Corps that has a rich history and has played a significant role in various military operations around the world. In this article, we will delve into the facts about the 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, exploring its history, mission, structure, and notable achievements.
History of the 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion
The 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion was activated on July 1, 1985, at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. The battalion was formed as part of the Marine Corps' effort to enhance its reconnaissance capabilities and provide a more flexible and mobile force. Since its activation, the 2nd LAR has participated in numerous military operations, including deployments to the Middle East, Africa, and the Balkans.
Mission and Structure
The primary mission of the 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion is to conduct reconnaissance and security operations in support of the Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF). The battalion is organized into four companies: Alpha, Bravo, Charlie, and Delta. Each company is equipped with the LAV-25 (Light Armored Vehicle), which provides a high degree of mobility and firepower.
The 2nd LAR is composed of approximately 900 Marines, including officers, enlisted personnel, and civilians. The battalion is headquartered at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, and falls under the command of the 2nd Marine Division.
Notable Achievements and Deployments
The 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion has a distinguished record of service, with notable achievements and deployments including:
- Operation Desert Storm (1990-1991): The 2nd LAR deployed to Saudi Arabia and participated in the liberation of Kuwait.
- Operation Restore Hope (1992-1993): The battalion deployed to Somalia as part of the United Nations peacekeeping force.
- Operation Enduring Freedom (2001-2002): The 2nd LAR deployed to Afghanistan and conducted counter-terrorism operations.
- Operation Iraqi Freedom (2003-2004): The battalion deployed to Iraq and participated in the invasion and subsequent occupation.
- Operation Enduring Freedom (2010-2011): The 2nd LAR deployed to Afghanistan and conducted counter-insurgency operations.
Awards and Decorations
The 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion has received numerous awards and decorations for its service, including:
- Presidential Unit Citation
- Navy Unit Commendation
- Meritorious Unit Commendation
- National Defense Service Medal
- Southwest Asia Service Medal
- Afghanistan Campaign Medal
- Iraq Campaign Medal
Training and Exercises
The 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion conducts regular training exercises to maintain its readiness and proficiency. The battalion participates in various exercises, including:
- Combined Arms Exercise (CAX): A large-scale exercise that simulates a combat environment and tests the battalion's ability to work with other units.
- Enhanced Mojave Viper (EMV): A training exercise that focuses on counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations.
- Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation (MCCRE): A evaluation that assesses the battalion's combat readiness and ability to perform its mission.
Leadership and Commanders
The 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion has had several notable commanders throughout its history, including:
- Lieutenant Colonel John M. Fassel (1985-1987)
- Lieutenant Colonel Michael J. Regner (1987-1989)
- Lieutenant Colonel John E. Wissler (1989-1991)
- Lieutenant Colonel James E. Livingston (1991-1993)
Gallery of 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion Images
2nd LAR Battalion Image Gallery
What is the primary mission of the 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion?
+The primary mission of the 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion is to conduct reconnaissance and security operations in support of the Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF).
Where is the 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion headquartered?
+The 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion is headquartered at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina.
What is the LAV-25?
+The LAV-25 is a Light Armored Vehicle that provides a high degree of mobility and firepower, used by the 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion.
What are some notable achievements of the 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion?
+The 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion has a distinguished record of service, with notable achievements and deployments including Operation Desert Storm, Operation Restore Hope, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Iraqi Freedom.
What is the structure of the 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion?
+The 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion is organized into four companies: Alpha, Bravo, Charlie, and Delta.
In conclusion, the 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion is a highly respected and decorated unit of the United States Marine Corps, with a rich history and a proven track record of service. We hope this article has provided you with a deeper understanding of the battalion's mission, structure, and achievements. If you have any further questions or would like to learn more, please don't hesitate to comment or share this article with others.