Marines in Europe Part I

[exarmydoc]

The Marines did not play a significant role either in the Capture of Mexico City, nor in the capture of Derna on the shores of Ttripoli. Retired Army Colonel William Eaton organized and led the assault on Tripoli. Most of his troops were mercenaries. Only 8 Marines took part in that assault.

[coronajoeca]

@exarmydoc. True and correct. What's significant about Derna for the Marines is it's become a part of our legacy of small unit leadership. I was also an early illustration of our expeditionary mindset. Whether or not the casting of Derna is historically accurate doesn't change the fact that it inspires young Marines to this day.

[NavyVetPatron49]

As the brother of a U.S. Marine and the Uncle of a Marine myself a proud U.S. Naval Veteran my brothers unit the first to fight in Vietnam my nephew who flew a Harrier in the rescue of Capt. Scott O'Grady U.S.A.F. am very proud of all those whom have served this national honorably no matter the branch of service. The greatest country in the world with a military second to none. The United States Marines are my brothers and sisters in arms I've served with many a tough Marine God Bless em!

[magiccyberlord]

I thought William Eaton lead the Marines and European Allies toward Tripoli...

[Sturmmann]

awesome footage of the WW1 Marines speaking about their experiences

[Gladiator0719]

The Corps., "No quarter given, none asked."

[momzlilmonster]

Bless my friend CORP. a marine my hero. oxox

[rjrassets]

Research is key here Marsh75228 a handful of devil dogs operated with the OSS in the ETO during World War2 conducting special operations and assisting with amphibious expertise. if you do research you will find some very interesting exploits of two marines conducting sabotage in france and belgium prior to D Day 6 june 44

[metalmosh6]

I know its late to ask but can you give me a hint where to read about 2 Marines conducting sabotages in Europe?

[marsh75228]

With all due respect, and I know you mean well, but the US Marine Corps did not fight in Europe during WW2, that was the Army. The USMC was strictly in the Pacific Theater of operations. Just thought you should know. Otherwise great video!

[coronajoeca]

I appreciate your concern marsh; however, I'd ask you to review Part III of the video. The Marines were in fact in Europe and North Africa during WWII. Feel free to read LtGen 'Brute' Krulak's "First to Fight" for details on how we assisted in the planning of Operation Overlord. Also do a search on Major Peter Ortiz and his exploits in France with the Office of Strategic Services.

[coronajoeca]

I realize Europe was not our primary focus during this period; no one would posit otherwise. I certainly did my research though, in fact I've met some of the Marines who fought with Major Ortiz and heard their stories firsthand. Look up Jack Risler and John Bodnar, who are also featured in the video.

Thanks for viewing, and I encourage you to explore this aspect of our history a little deeper.

[rjrassets]

just thought you should know the USMC was involved in Europe (the ETO) in WW2 conducting special operations with the OSS....research