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4th Marine Division

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Article Genealogy
Parent: Battle of Iwo Jima Hop 3
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4th Marine Division
Unit name4th Marine Division
CaptionShoulder sleeve insignia of the 4th Marine Division
Dates1943–1945, 1966–present
CountryUnited States
BranchUnited States Marine Corps
TypeMarine division
RoleAmphibious warfare
SizeApproximately 10,000 Marines and sailors
GarrisonMarine Corps Base Camp Pendleton
Nickname"The Fighting Fourth"
Motto"Firm and Steadfast"
BattlesWorld War II, Vietnam War, Operation Desert Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom, War in Afghanistan (2001–2021)
Current commanderMajor General James F. Harp
Notable commandersHarry Schmidt, Clifton B. Cates, James L. Jones Jr.

4th Marine Division is a Marine division of the United States Marine Corps based at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton in California. Nicknamed "The Fighting Fourth," it is a key component of the I Marine Expeditionary Force and has a distinguished combat history dating to World War II. The division is maintained as a "4th Marine Division (Forward)" command element, with its subordinate regiments and battalions distributed among other units, ready for rapid activation and deployment.

History

The division was activated on August 14, 1943, at Camp Pendleton from the pre-existing 23rd Marine Regiment and other units, drawing many of its initial personnel from the disbanded Marine Defense Battalions. It was the first Marine division to be organized and deployed directly from the continental United States into combat during World War II. Following its distinguished service in the Pacific War, the division was inactivated in November 1945 at Camp Pendleton but was reactivated in 1966 during the Vietnam War to serve as a "Dual Division" partner to the 3rd Marine Division, providing a rotational base of personnel and units.

Organization

The division is organized under the Marine Air-Ground Task Force doctrine and is composed of three infantry regiments: the 23rd Marine Regiment, the 24th Marine Regiment, and the 25th Marine Regiment. These regiments are primarily composed of Selected Marine Corps Reserve units, with the division headquarters providing command and control. Supporting elements include the 14th Marine Regiment (artillery), the 4th Combat Engineer Battalion, the 4th Reconnaissance Battalion, and the 4th Tank Battalion.

Notable campaigns and battles

During World War II, the division saw intense combat across the Central Pacific. Its major campaigns include the Battle of Kwajalein on Roi-Namur, the Battle of Saipan, the Battle of Tinian, and the Battle of Iwo Jima, where it sustained heavy casualties. In the modern era, elements have deployed in support of Operation Desert Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and the War in Afghanistan (2001–2021). Individual battalions and regiments have also participated in numerous other global contingency operations and exercises.

Insignia and traditions

The division's shoulder sleeve insignia, approved in 1943, features a gold "4" on a scarlet background, outlined in blue, reflecting the official United States Marine Corps colors. Its nickname, "The Fighting Fourth," was earned during the Pacific War. The division's motto is "Firm and Steadfast." A notable tradition is the presentation of the Navy Unit Commendation streamer for its actions during the Battle of Iwo Jima.

Commanders

The first commanding general was Major General Harry Schmidt, who led the division through the Marshall Islands and Mariana Islands campaigns. Other notable wartime commanders included Major General Clifton B. Cates. In the modern era, distinguished commanders have included General James L. Jones Jr., who later served as Commandant of the Marine Corps and National Security Advisor.

Current status

Headquartered at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, the division currently exists as a "4th Marine Division (Forward)" command element under the I Marine Expeditionary Force. Its regiments are geographically dispersed across the United States as part of the Marine Forces Reserve. The division maintains a cadre of active-duty personnel to facilitate the training, readiness, and rapid mobilization of its reserve components for worldwide deployment in support of United States Northern Command and global operational requirements.

Category:United States Marine Corps divisions Category:Military units and formations established in 1943