USMC Defensive Battalions of the 1930s: A Forgotten Construct
Abstract
The Marine Corps has a history of maintaining a flexible, rapidly deploying force. In the years leading up to World War II the Corps would more specifically define the it's role, direction and priorities concerning its capabilities. The Marine Corps re-task organized and created specified units to accomplish a defensive requirement in the Pacific. It was the defensive mission that set the stage for the Marine Corps to develop the 2nd, 5th, and 6th Defense Battalions and their role as a part of the island hopping campaign of the Pacific. They are the examples of the evolution of primary coastal defense artillery to antiaircraft battalions, which after the war would be deactivated. The Marine Corps is fighting to remain relevant and prepared to combat an elusive and offensive minded enemy. Force projection, base defense forces, and the amphibious capability have all been included in its long-term plan. Looking back to the Defensive Battalion construct used in World War II demonstrates the Marine Corps' flexibility and adaptability to re-organize and respond to diverse missions on a modern and dynamic battlefield.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 04, 2015
- Accession Number
- AD1175874
Entities
People
- John P. Harley
Organizations
- Marine Corps University