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At Kwajalein and Roi-Namur, months of rehearsals, better intel, and hard-earned Tarawa lessons came together. The 4th Marine Division, fresh off the boat from Pendleton, made its combat debut alongside Army units already blooded in the Aleutians. They landed under real air cover, backed by real logistics, and fought smart, clearing bunkers with tanks and torches instead of charging into fire.
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After the brutal learning curve at Tarawa, the Marine Corps came into this fight prepared, equipped, and determined to lead the next phase of the war. For the first time, their landings were backed by meaningful fire support and rehearsed coordination. The chaos of earlier battles gave way to calculated strikes. This episode follows their path from the surf of Roi-Namur to the contested terrain of Kwajalein. Along the way, we’ll explore the courage that carried them forward, the lessons that reshaped their doctrine, and the heroism that defined this campaign.
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The initial assault was chaotic—coral reefs slowed the approach, landing craft were wrecked, and units came ashore under heavy fire. But by the second and third days, the situation began to change. Officers like Shoup, Edson, and Jones made key decisions, reinforcements came in, and tanks managed to cross the reef. Despite exhaustion and limited ground, the Marines pushed inland.
Today’s episode focuses on that shift—from securing the beach to pressing the attack. We’ll look at how the 1st Battalion 8th Marines broke through, how Crowe and Jones coordinated flanking movements, and how tanks helped turn the momentum. We’ll also cover the Japanese night assaults and the close-quarters fighting that defined the battle’s turning point. Tarawa remained brutal, but these days marked the start of a hard-fought advance.
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We just finished the brutal slog through the Solomons, and now we’re following the Central Pacific drive straight into Tarawa. This wasn’t jungle fighting, it was open beach and shallow reefs, turning a straightforward landing into a nightmare. Marines found themselves stranded, wading through chest-deep water under relentless fire. Communication fell apart, and every yard gained came at a heavy cost. Today, we’re diving into the chaos and courage at Tarawa.
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In this episode, we dive into the coordinated landings on the Treasury Islands, the daring Choiseul raid, and the brutal jungle fighting that followed. From LSTs taking direct hits at Falamai to a New Zealand bulldozer operator burying a live pillbox under fire, the stakes were high from the first wave. We'll follow Loganforce's stand at Soanotalu, the deception that tied down enemy forces at Choiseul, and the calculated push through Green Island and Emirau that sealed off Raball.
With PT boats patrolling tight waters, Seabees building airfields under fire, and Marines fighting in thick jungle, the campaign isolated Japan’s strongest forward base and opened the road to the Philippines.
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In December, Marines fought one of their toughest battles on Bougainville—securing Hellzapoppin Ridge. This heavily fortified enemy stronghold loomed over Marine lines, threatening the expanding perimeter. For over a week, the fight raged in the thick jungle, where Marines faced relentless enemy fire and near-impenetrable defenses. Artillery barrages, airstrikes, and unyielding infantry assaults eventually broke the Japanese hold, but the cost was high.
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In November 1943, U.S. Marines fought a brutal series of battles on Bougainville, pushing to secure key high ground. One of the toughest fights was at “Grenade Hill,” where Marines faced relentless grenade attacks before the Japanese finally abandoned their position. By the end of November, the Marines had secured the high ground, breaking Japanese resistance and ensuring control over the expanding perimeter.
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By early November 1943, the Japanese launched a desperate counteroffensive to reclaim Bougainville. Their plan called for a large-scale infiltration behind Marine lines, followed by a full assault. The Marines’ quick response and overwhelming firepower shattered the enemy’s ambitions. Artillery and airstrikes devastated Japanese forces, while the Raiders and 9th Marines held the crucial Piva Roadblock against repeated attacks.
The battle saw acts of incredible bravery, including the sacrifice of PFC Henry Gurke. By the end of November, the Marines had secured their perimeter, and positioned themselves for the next phase of the Bougainville campaign.
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This episode dives into the planning and execution of the amphibious assault at Cape Torokina. From complex logistical challenges to the intense combat on the beaches, we cover how Task Force 31 and IMAC coordinated this massive operation.
We also discuss the key engagements that followed the landing, including Sergeant Robert A. Owens’ heroic assault on a fortified 75mm gun position, the bloody close-quarters combat that unfolded, and the strategic countermeasures taken to repel Japanese counterattacks.
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By late 1943, the Allies had turned the tide in the Pacific, but one significant stronghold still loomed. In Japan’s most critical South Pacific base, Rabaul served as a launch point for air and naval operations across New Guinea and the Solomons. Instead of a costly direct assault, Allied planners devised a strategy to neutralize Rabaul through isolation, cutting off its supply lines and rendering it ineffective.
Bougainville became the next step in this plan, providing airfields and a staging ground for the final push.
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By mid-1943, the Allies were advancing through the Solomons, pushing toward Rabaul. After securing Guadalcanal and New Georgia, their next target was Vella Lavella. Unlike previous battles, the Japanese opted to withdraw rather than defend the island outright, but the fight was far from easy.
Marines, Seabees, and New Zealand forces faced logistical chaos, relentless air attacks, and fierce resistance from the remaining enemy troops. As U.S. forces established a foothold, Japanese commanders launched a last-ditch evacuation, leading to a violent clash.
Vella Lavella proved the growing strength of Allied coordination, air superiority, and adaptability in island warfare. With the island secured, the path to Bougainville, and ultimately Rabaul, was open.
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By July 7, the Marines’ push toward Enogai had slowed to a crawl. Thick jungle, relentless enemy fire, and brutal terrain turned every step into a fight. Runners risked their lives to keep communication going, while corpsmen worked tirelessly to save the wounded.
When the Raiders captured a map of enemy defenses, Liversedge saw his chance. The 1st Raider Battalion launched a full-scale assault, smashing through machine-gun nests and mortar fire. By day’s end, Enogai was theirs, cutting off a key Japanese supply line.
But the cost was high, and the battle for New Georgia was far from over.
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The Solomon Islands campaign was a turning point in the Pacific War, pushing the Marines to their limits in a relentless battle against both the Japanese and the unforgiving environment. This episode focuses on the critical role the Marines played in the grueling fight for New Georgia, where dense jungles, endless rain, and a determined enemy tested their resolve.
As part of Operation TOENAILS, the Marines spearheaded daring assaults, pivotal for advancing the strategically vital Munda airfield. Alongside Coastwatchers and local guides, the Marines relied on bravery, ingenuity, and sheer grit to overcome fortified enemy positions and treacherous terrain. These hard-fought victories shaped the outcome of the New Georgia campaign and set the stage for the eventual Allied push toward Japan.
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In the summer of 1943, the New Georgia campaign tested the grit and resilience of the Marine Corps. Tasked with securing the Solomon Islands, they battled relentless jungle terrain, torrential rains, and fierce Japanese defenses. From daring raids at Segi Point to artillery bombardments on Munda, Marines executed amphibious assaults and tank-infantry breakthroughs, securing strategic positions and leaving a lasting mark on the Pacific War and Marine Corps history.
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This episode explores the pivotal Solomon Islands campaign during the Pacific War, highlighting the grueling battles in New Georgia. Amid relentless jungle terrain, torrential rains, and fierce Japanese resistance, the Marines displayed unmatched resolve. Operation TOENAILS marked the turning point, with daring assaults on critical locations like Munda Airfield and Rendova Island. Supported by Coastwatchers and local guides, the Marines overcame fortified positions to secure strategic victories. These hard-fought gains not only weakened Japan’s hold in the Pacific but also set the stage for future Allied advances toward Rabaul and beyond.
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For months, the Marines endured brutal combat, disease, and exhaustion on Guadalcanal. The 1st Marine Division, depleted by malaria and months of fighting, finally got their relief.
The Americans, strengthened by fresh troops, moved in, bracing for a tough battle. But the Japanese had other plans. While the Americans prepared for a fight, the enemy was already disappearing into the night.
This episode covers the final days of the Guadalcanal campaign—the brutal battle for Hill 27, the Marines' last engagements, and the lessons that shaped future Pacific battles. Guadalcanal wasn’t just a victory—it was the moment that forced Japan onto the defensive for the rest of the war.
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Guadalcanal was a campaign defined by endurance. By November, the tide had shifted in favor of the Americans, but victory was far from certain. The plan was to encircle and eliminate the remaining Japanese forces, a strategy that seemed straightforward on paper but proved far more challenging to execute.
This episode covers the final push to trap the enemy—coordinated attacks from the 7th Marines, the 164th Infantry, and Carlson’s Raiders. As the Marines fought through the jungle, the Japanese slipped through gaps in the lines, turning what could have been a decisive blow into another grueling fight.
We’ll also look at the role of naval power in the campaign’s outcome, the challenges of coordinating Army and Marine units, and the growing pains of joint operations in the Pacific. This is the story of the final weeks before Guadalcanal was secured—and the men who paid the price to make it happen.
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By mid-October, the situation on Guadalcanal had reached a breaking point. Malaria swept through the ranks, sidelining hundreds of Marines each week. Combat-weary and outnumbered, they faced relentless Japanese assaults aimed at seizing key river crossings. Holding the Matanikau was critical—not just for defense, but for survival. As both sides scrambled for reinforcements, the battle lines shifted, and the Marines found themselves locked in brutal engagements across the island. This episode covers the mounting challenges they faced, the strategic importance of the Matanikau, and the desperate fight to hold Guadalcanal.
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By late August 1942, the fight for Guadalcanal had become a brutal test of endurance. The Marines had repelled Ichiki’s reckless assault, but the Japanese weren’t finished. Each night, enemy destroyers—nicknamed the “Tokyo Express”—delivered fresh troops, while air raids and naval bombardments pounded Henderson Field. The Marines, low on supplies and outnumbered, held their ground through sheer determination. Meanwhile, the Cactus Air Force fought a relentless battle in the skies, downing enemy planes despite primitive conditions.
As Vandegrift reinforced his perimeter, Edson’s Raiders braced for a desperate stand at Bloody Ridge, and Chesty Puller led aggressive patrols against Japanese forces near the Matanikau River. Offshore, the Battle of Cape Esperance shifted the balance at sea. This episode covers the brutal battles, tactical shifts, and raw courage that defined Guadalcanal.
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With the Navy pulling out, the Marines on Guadalcanal were left in a bad situation. General Vandegrift had no choice but to tighten the perimeter around Lunga Point, focusing all defenses on the airfield.
Marine engineers struggled to keep the airfield operational, facing daily air raids and supply shortages. We'll close the episode with the Marines bracing for the Battle of the Tenaru, their first large-scale ground fight of the campaign.
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While the previous episode followed the Marines storming Tulagi, this one shifts to Beach Red, where the 1st and 5th Marines landed to secure the island’s key objective: Henderson Field.
We'll get into the initial naval and air bombardment, the landing process, and the eerie lack of Japanese resistance at the shoreline. As the Marines pushed inland, they quickly realized Guadalcanal wouldn’t be an easy fight. The terrain was dense, the jungle unforgiving, and while the Japanese weren’t visible at first, they were waiting—ready to strike.
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While the main invasion force stormed Guadalcanal, a smaller but equally critical battle unfolded on Tulagi. As Marines waded through chest-deep surf, they found themselves facing an enemy that would not surrender. Fighting through thick jungle and jagged ridgelines, they encountered machine-gun nests, sniper fire, and relentless counterattacks. The battle for Tulagi would turn the island into a brutal proving ground for the Marines.
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In this episode, we dive into the tense weeks leading up to the invasion of Guadalcanal. Major General Alexander Vandegrift and his Marines prepared for an amphibious assault with little time, limited resources, and almost no intelligence on the enemy’s defenses.
From command disputes to botched rehearsals, this episode breaks down the frustrations, miscalculations, and last-minute decisions that set the stage for one of the most grueling battles of World War II.
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Before Marines stormed beaches in the Pacific, they had to prove they were worth keeping around. When steamships made close-quarters ship combat obsolete, the Marine Corps was nearly scrapped. Their old mission vanished overnight. This episode tells the story of how Samoa helped save the Corps. After Pearl Harbor, Samoa looked like Japan’s next logical target. The Marines were sent to hold the island at all costs.
Marines fortified beaches, built airfields, trained a Samoan reserve battalion, and turned the island into a launch point for operations across the South Pacific. Samoa never saw major combat, but it proved Marines could build and defend forward bases anywhere in the world.
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Most people don’t think of Iceland when they think about Marines in World War II. No battles, no amphibious landings, no dramatic last stands. Just a wind-battered volcanic island, frozen mud, sideways rain, and Marines pulling security in a place where the sun never set—and nothing ever happened.
This episode dives into the forgotten deployment that tested morale more than marksmanship. We’ll talk about the midnight sun landings, the endless working parties, and how Marines turned an unglamorous garrison mission into a blueprint for readiness. There were no medals for standing watch on a glacial ridge—but the small-unit leadership, the discipline, and the quiet grit these Marines showed laid the foundation for what came next in the Pacific.
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This episode closes out our series on desegregation in the Marine Corps. We pick up after World War II and follow the fight for equality through Korea, Vietnam, and beyond. From Truman’s Executive Order to the violent racial clashes at Camp Lejeune, we cover the battles fought in the field and the ones fought in the barracks, promotion boards, courtrooms, and parade fields.
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This episode covers the evolution of the Montford Point Marines from raw recruits to battle-ready defenders. We follow the 51st Composite Defense Battalion as they reorganize, adapt, and train under tough leadership and tougher conditions.
We’ll look at how these Marines earned their place through grit and professionalism, not just at home but across the Pacific. We’ll also explore the formation and struggles of the 52nd Defense Battalion, the Third Battle of Guam, and acts of heroism that never made headlines.
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When you trace the path of desegregation in the Marine Corps, you're looking at a journey defined by extraordinary resilience and relentless courage. From John Martin’s pioneering role in the Revolutionary War to the tragic exclusion policies enacted by Congress in 1792, this history mirrors America’s ongoing struggle with race and equality.
Today's episode takes us through centuries of barriers and breakthroughs, revealing how prejudice shaped policy, yet never extinguished the courage of those determined to serve.
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This episode covers Corregidor’s brutal last stand and its bitter aftermath. You’ll hear how Marines and their makeshift allies fought in desperate hand-to-hand combat, machine guns cutting down wave after wave of attackers, and leaders like Major Williams and Captain Castle battling to the very end.
Field musicians firing rifles, runners dying to deliver vital messages, and platoons wiped out to the last man. You'll learn about Marines teaching sailors how to fight, cadets transformed into warriors overnight, and officers rallying exhausted troops under relentless fire.
For the 4th Marines, Corregidor was more than a battlefield; it was their crucible.
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This episode tells the story of the rocky island fortress where the 4th Marines made their final stand. After surviving weeks of retreat, jungle fighting, starvation, and disease on Luzon, the Marines fell back to Corregidor alongside sailors, Philippine Army cadets, and general-duty troops. Undermanned and outgunned, they turned this small island into a last line of defense against overwhelming Japanese firepower.
We cover how the Marines trained sailors to fight like infantry, repurposed aircraft bombs into improvised mines, and held a fractured defense line with mixed units from over 50 commands. Bombed daily, under constant artillery fire, and surviving on a third of a ration, they dug in, determined to hold.
When the Japanese landed, the Marines unleashed everything they had, but it wasn't enough. The island fell—but not quietly.
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In this episode, the 4th Marines move from Olongapo to Corregidor, just as the Japanese close in on Manila. What follows is a scramble to destroy U.S. naval bases, build up beach defenses, and dig in for a siege. We'll break down the geography of Corregidor, the fractured command structure, and the brutal reality of jungle survival. As Japanese air raids intensify and supplies dwindle, Marines rely on improvisation, grit, and foxholes to hold their ground. This is the start of one of the hardest chapters in Marine Corps history—the long, slow fight for the Philippines.
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Kevin Sadaj served in the Marine Corps from 1989 to 1993 and participated in Operation Restore Hope. In 2011 he cofounded the Marine Somalia Veterans Association, which has over 2000 members. The association serves as a place of fellowship and support for members who served in Somalia and is a repository of the history of their experiences.
Website: https://marinesomaliavetsassociation.home.blog
Membership: https://marinesomaliavetsassociation.home.blog/membership
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/USMCSomaliaVetsAssn
This episode tells the full story of how the Philippines became a battleground—and how Marines found themselves at the center of the storm. From the Treaty of Paris to the first Marine killed in the Philippines, we’ll break down the political missteps, flawed assumptions, and raw courage that defined those early days. Bombs fell, ships burned, and Marines fought back with machine guns, pistols, and pure stubbornness.
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The attack on Pearl Harbor lit the fuse, but Japan’s offensive reached far beyond Hawaii. In this episode, we cover the Marines on Guam, who fought with almost nothing, the defenders on Johnston and Palmyra, who gave the enemy more than they expected, and the crushing defeat in the Philippines that reshaped the war. These early losses hurt, but they also hardened American resolve. For the Marines scattered across the Pacific, this was the start of a long, brutal road to payback.
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In this episode, we return to Wake Island. After surviving air raids and mounting an incredible defense, the Marines now face Japan’s full invasion force. This is the story of wrecked planes rebuilt by hand, shore batteries lighting up destroyers, and a final, desperate stand around a single operational gun. We’ll also meet the Marines who kept fighting long after they were ordered to stop, and the father who went to war to honor his fallen son.
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Pearl Harbor wasn't Japan’s only target. In this episode, we cover the first Marine fights of World War II at Midway and Wake. From radar pings at night to shellfire by flashlight, the Marines at Midway were ready when the Japanese came. At Wake, outnumbered and outgunned, Marines and civilian contractors built defenses by hand and refused to give up ground.
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In this episode, we cover the lead-up to one of the most infamous mornings in American history—December 7, 1941. Japan, starved for oil and cut off by embargo, saw only one option: strike first. We follow the secret build-up to Pearl Harbor, the pilots preparing for the attack, and the Marine detachments stationed across Oahu as everything changed in an instant. From torpedo innovations to radar warnings ignored, this was a meticulously planned assault—and the Marines on the ground responded with grit, fire, and instinct. Pearl Harbor was more than just a wake-up call. It was the moment the United States entered World War II.
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This is the second episode covering the global unraveling that led to America’s full entry into World War II. After Germany invaded Poland, Europe spiraled into chaos. Hitler pushed for control of Norway to secure critical resources and the lightning-fast German invasion of France exposed the flaws in Allied assumptions and defenses.
With France collapsed and Britain barely holding on, Hitler turned east, launching the largest land invasion in history against the Soviet Union. At the same time, Italy entered the war, expanding the conflict to North Africa and the Mediterranean.
While Europe burned, Japan eyed Southeast Asia’s oil-rich territories. Roosevelt’s oil embargo pushed Japan closer to war, and the U.S. began preparing its Pacific defenses. By the end of 1941, Axis forces held most of Europe and were advancing across Asia. This episode lays out how the global conflict widened and set the stage for Pearl Harbor, the fall of the Philippines, and the brutal Pacific campaign that followed.
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This episode marks the beginning of our World War II series. This episode breaks down how the Great Depression wrecked economies, empowered dictators, and turned public desperation into political firepower. In Germany, that meant Hitler. In Japan, it meant military rule. In Italy, Mussolini. From Manchuria to the Sudetenland to Poland, we cover the flashpoints that pulled the world into war and why America couldn’t stay on the sidelines for long.
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This episode is the final chapter in the story of Marine aviation—how it matured into one of the most advanced and reliable combat arms of the U.S. military. We’ll follow the journey from the skies over Guadalcanal to carrier ops, the Korean mountains, and the jungles of Vietnam. From humble beginnings, Marine aviation became a force that could strike anywhere, anytime, with precision, speed, and overwhelming firepower.
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In this episode, we follow how the Marine Corps went from doubting pilots to building one of the world’s deadliest air-ground teams. Aviation started as a sideshow—something most Marines didn’t take seriously. But by the 1930s, Marine pilots had revolutionized air tactics. Dive-bombing, close air support, even aerial resupply all came from this period. When WWII hit, Marine aviators weren’t just ready—they were ahead of the game.
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This is our third episode covering how the interwar years quietly reshaped the Marine Corps into a force built for the future. We break down how the Corps invested in smarter training, structured leadership development, and built up aviation, artillery, and reserves from the ground up. This is where the Fleet Marine Force was born. This is when dive-bombing tactics were invented. And this is how the Corps made sure that when the next war came, it would be more than ready to fight. It would be ready to win.
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In this episode, we follow the Marine Corps through one of its most important transitions—one that set the stage for everything that followed in World War II. After WWI, Marines weren’t just pulling security in far-off places like China and the Caribbean—they were reinventing what it meant to be a Marine. This is where the Fleet Marine Force was born. We cover how combat lessons became doctrine, how Marines went from peacekeepers to a modern expeditionary force, and how leaders like Lejeune, Butler, Neville, Fuller, and Holcomb fought for the soul and future of the Corps.
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When Marines returned home after World War I, they stepped into a country ready to celebrate them as heroes. Parades filled city streets, families welcomed them with open arms, and it seemed like America couldn't thank them enough. But this enthusiasm was short-lived. Within months, a sense of disillusionment set in, replacing cheers and excitement with a stark reality check on what the war had truly cost. Soon, that collective sense of pride turned into doubt, questioning whether the glory earned in combat was worth the terrible price Marines paid. This shift deeply impacted the Corps, leaving it struggling to fill its ranks and maintain morale as America moved toward isolation.
In this episode, we’ll explore how the Marine Corps fought to adapt in the face of a shrinking force, outdated promotion policies, and fading public support. From Hollywood's depiction of war's bitter realities to the Corps' desperate pivot toward sports and education, you'll see how the Marines grappled with a nation eager to leave war, and warriors, in the past.
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This battle is the last and most significant U.S. troops fought during WWI. We discuss the preparation leading up to the fight, some of the challenges both U.S. and German troops faced, and how both sides handled the armistice when they received the news. We end the episode by talking about some of the statistics on the war.
This battle was one of the bloodiest the Marines faced during WWI. We discuss the actions of the 5th and 6th Marines, including a disorderly retreat by the 5th Regiment. James Gregory wrote an excellent article about it in the latest issue of the MCU Press Marine Corps History. Check it out here:
https://www.usmcu.edu/Portals/218/MarineCorpsHistory_vol7no2_Winter2021_web%20%282%29.pdf
St Mihiel is the first U.S.-led offensive in WWI. Although the U.S. Army primarily fought this battle, the Marines played a considerable role in its outcome. We'll discuss some of the events leading up to the fight, look at how the Marine spent some of their quiet time, and get into the planned strategy outlined by Pershing and Lejeune.
After the first day of battle, the 5th Marine Regiment lost a significant part of its force. Both sides reorganized for the night. German General Baron Von Watter moved the 46th Division to the front lines, and the 6th Marines prepared to meet the fresh German troops.
Less than a month after Belleau Wood, the 5th and 6th Regiments made their way north. The Battle of Soissons was part of the Allied Aisne-Marne counter-offensive, and Marines who fought in both swore that Soissons was worse. This episode focuses on the 5th Marine regiment, and we discuss the logistical challenges Marines faced minutes before they were scheduled to advance towards the Germans.
Marines had to cross 350 meters of open wheat field to reach the Germans, and many who witnessed the battlefield compared it to Confederate General Robert E. Lee's failed Pickett's Charge during the Battle of Gettysburg. We break down the position and strength of Marine and German forces at Belleau Wood and many of the challenges US forces faced during their engagement. We end the episode by reviewing a few statistics and addressing the elephant in the room about the Marine's famed Devil Dog nickname.
This episode introduces the Battle of Belleau Wood. We follow the Marines as they arrive in France and discuss some of the training and assignments given to Marines in 1917. Heading into 1918, we discuss events leading up to the famous battle, including Germany’s Spring Offensive and some of the first engagements US Marines had with German troops.
This episode digs into how the Marine Corps prepared for war. We cover a lot and discuss recruit training, naval activity in Europe, early aviation, and introduce chaplains and corpsmen serving with Marines.
This episode continues the introduction of World War I. We spent some time reviewing the Schlieffen plan and discussing very high-level engagements happening in Europe. We also introduce a few events contributing to President Wilson's decision to declare war on Germany.
This episode introduces many of the events leading up to WWI. We begin in the mid-1800s with the rise of nationalism in Europe. Empires started to crumble due to this movement, and the conflicts that took place during this time would result in the world going to war.
This episode jumps back to the 1800s and reviews Marine activity in China during the Boxer Rebellion. We introduce the events leading up to the decision to send troops to China and cover a few significant battles against the Boxers. A young Smedley Butler and Dan Daly make their appearance, and Marines would be awarded most Medals of Honor during this campaign.
After the Spanish-American War, Spain ceded the Philippines to the United States, but Filipinos refused to be controlled by another colonial ruler. They rebelled against the United States. We cover a few battles and a disastrous event where multiple Marines died from hunger after getting lost in the jungle.
This week's episode discusses the final years of the U.S. occupation in Haiti. We take a look at the transfer of power back to the Haitian government and the progress of the Gendarmerie force. We also briefly touch on some of the more atrocious acts by Marines and a few theories on the motivation of their behavior. We end the episode by introducing the Philippine–American War.
This week's episode heads next door to Haiti. We explore why the United States got involved in the first place, Smedley Butler's reconnaissance mission that gathered intelligence for Waller's aggressive campaign, and a heroic mission by two Marines that sounds like it should be a movie.
The United States spent eight years occupying the Dominican Republic, and the Marines were responsible for maintaining law and order. We discuss the challenges of US intervention and end the episode by reviewing a similar scenario taking place next door in Haiti.
We head back to Nicaragua to discuss some of the challenges Marines faced from Stimson’s conclusion and President Diaz's request to the United States. We end the episode by introducing the next intervention in our conversation – Dominican Republic.
This episode continues to explore the decision to integrate women into the Marine Corps. From 1946 to 2021, women achieved significant milestones. Not only were more studies produced, but commands started to provide recommendations based on experience from real-world implementation.
With World War I around the corner, We're coming up on a significant milestone in the Marine Corps. The role women played during this war had a substantial impact on the success of the United States. With the anniversary of Opha May Johnson and the authorization to allow women to join the Marine Corps, I thought this was the perfect time to talk about our sisters in arms. This is an integral part of history that deserves recognition, and we'll dive into it during the next couple of episodes.
This episode continues our last conversation, and we dive into Marine's actions in Nicaragua. Rebel forces were rampant throughout the country, and the United States sent in troops to help protect American lives and property. Marines were tasked with establishing neutral zones throughout the country, and soon, detachments were sent to multiple locations and provided protection against the Nicaraguan Civil War.
This episode reviews the Marines in Cuba. This operation was a massive undertaking for the Marine Corps. At the height of the Cuban Intervention, about a third of all Marines were on the island. Towards the end of the episode, we discuss the end of the Platt Amendment, the reason we were in Cuba in the first place, and start looking at problems in Nicaragua.
This episode discusses the Mexican Intervention and significant changes in the Marine Corps. We conclude by traveling back to 1899 and introduce the relationship between the United States and Cuba.
From the end of the Spanish-American War until WWI, US foreign policy became more aggressive. As a result, the Marines were sent to new destinations in Latin America, the Caribbean, China, and the Philippines. This was an important time for the Marine Corps because Marines predominantly conducted military interventions in multiple areas of operation.
This episode digs into the Spanish American War. This conflict was short, and we will discuss the Marine's involvement in one episode, but some crucial milestones occurred during this time. We take a look at a couple of battles, some Marine Corps changes and set the stage for the next couple of episodes leading to World War I.
This episode explores a few expeditions to South America, including the Panama Canal. We dive into some significant changes to the Marine Corps, including appointing John Phillip Sousa as the leader of the Marine Band and the formal adoption of the Marine Corps motto.
The Marine Corps experienced many changes during the Gilded Age - uniforms were updated to the ones we’re familiar with today, formal training was provided to officers, and additional weapons were added to the Marines arsenal.
This week's episode closes the chapter on the American Civil War. We discuss the Second Battle of Fort Fisher and summarize Lee and Grant's meeting at Appomattox. The episode ends with some statistics about the war and sets up the discussion on how Marines will enter the Gilded Age of the United States.
This week's episode opens with a quick discussion about how the Secretary of the Navy selected the next Commandant. We also cover the Battle of Cherbourg and the Battle of Mobile Bay.
This week's episode covers a lot. We discussed the famous battle between the Monitor and the CSS Virginia, the first Medal of Honor issued to a Marine, a second attempt to take Fort Sumter, the use of torpedo boats, and the death of Commandant John Harris.
We cover the Marine Corps and Navy's preparation for an uprising. We also discuss the war's opening shot and review the Marines participation in the first major land battle of the American Civil War and the war's first naval expedition.
This episode introduces the American Civil War. We discuss causes, the impact on U.S. citizens, and the impact on the United States military. Every military branch saw a severe blow to their strength, and the Marine Corps would be hit hard with half of their officers supporting the south.
We discuss the end of the Mexican American War and review the four high-level consequences the treaty had on Mexico. We also follow Gillespie and Stockton’s life after the war and end by introducing the start of the Civil War.
This episode reviews one of the bloodiest battles of the Mexican American War - the Battle of San Pascual. We follow Gillespie and the United States as they prepare to take Los Angeles for a second time.
This episode gets into the conquest of Los Angeles. We follow Stockton, Fremont, and Gillespie as they make their way south and seize California towns along the way. We spend the second half of the episode discussing Los Angeles and Archibald Gillespie's struggles while defending the city.
This episode rewinds the clock and takes another view of the war. This conflict involves two significant areas of operation. One was the east coast of Mexico, and the second is the west coast of North America. We head back to 1845 and follow the path of a Marine who the U.S. President trusted with a secret mission. Archibald Gillespie is one of the most influential figures in California's conquest, but someone you rarely hear about in the Marine Corps. This episode introduces this Marine and sets the stage for the invasion of California.
This episode gets into preparations for the Battle of Chapultepec. US forces captured the remaining Mexican ports, and we spend the second-half following the Marines to the Halls of Montezuma
The Mexican-American War was fought over a large portion of North American territory, but the Marine Corps' involvement could be divided into two areas - the East Coast of Mexico and the West Coast of North America. This episode explores the conflicts in Eastern Mexico, and we'll follow the Marines, Army, and Navy as they make their way to critical Mexican ports. We end with the siege of Veracruz and the Marines preparing for Chapultepec.
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We dig a little deeper into the cause of the Mexican American War and spend the first half of the episode discussing Texas and Mexico's history. We also expand on the United States' perceived right of Manifest Destiny and look at Mexico's leadership. The second half reviews how US citizens viewed the decision to go to war, a couple of early battles, an introduction to Marine Archibald Gillespie, and conclude with the Marines landing on Mexican soil.
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This episode sums up the Seminole Wars. We look at the US Navy and Marine's efforts in the Everglades against the remaining Seminoles, dive into a high-level review of the American Indian Wars, and provide a few statistics about the conflict. We end the episode by heading out west and discuss the struggle between Texas, local Native American tribes, and Mexico. The conflict of these three nations would lead to Texas earning its independence from Mexico and eventually joining the United States.
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This episode reviews Archibald Henderson and the Marine Corps involvement in Florida. We discuss the commandant's decision as to why he volunteered the Marines, President Andrew Jackson's decision to accept Henderson's offer, and a couple of battles between Marines and the Seminoles.
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This episode dives into the first war between the United States and the southern tribes. This was a violent time between the two nations. We cover a few massacres, unfair treaties by the United States, and events leading to Archibald Henderson and the Marines' eventual involvement.
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This episode continues with Native American/United States relations after the American Revolution. We cover a few skirmishes between local tribes and Marines and end the episode by introducing the first Creek and Seminole Wars.
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This week's episode introduces the American Indian Wars. We cover a few disputes between Native American tribes and European settlers in North America during the 1600s, and the episode ends by looking at how European nations exploited Native American allies. We also look at the action of local tribes and the massacre of European settlers.
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This episode gets into an essential but rarely discussed Sumatran expedition. Marines will travel to Quallah Battoo in Sumatra to handle another group of pirates. We discuss this battle's origin, how the Marines helped secure victory, and conclude with the Creek and Seminole Wars introduction.
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This episode explores one of the most respected Marines in Marine Corps history – Archibald Henderson. Henderson served as the commandant for 38 years; the longest anyone held that position. This length of service earned him the nickname, “Grand Old Man of the Marine Corps.” This motivator will be in charge for the next few decades, and this episode will set the stage by introducing the fifth commandant of the Marine Corps (or 4th, if you’re counting acting commandants), who will further define the reputation of the United States Marine Corps.
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This episode discusses the Second Barbary War, also known as the Algerine War. This conflict is relatively quick and will only take one episode to cover. Although there isn’t as much to talk about compared to other wars we reviewed, it is still a significant conflict, and the United States Marine Corps and the United States Navy were instrumental in winning this war.
This episode sums up the War of 1812. We discuss statistics, and I go over many compliments paid to Marines for their action during the war. We cover a few democratic changes in the United States, one of which is voting rights, and conclude with an overview of the next conflict.
The British advance on New Orleans. We’ll discuss the British and the United States' troop movement and review how the two belligerents prepare for battle. We also touch on the peace treaty in Ghent and the complications of negotiating between the two countries.
This battle was another blow to the United States. The Marines, severely outnumbered, will stand their ground even as militiamen and the US Army flee the battlefield.
This episode discusses troop movement throughout the United States. Bonaparte was just exiled, and now the British had additional forces to support the war across the pond. We'll briefly discuss a few battles and end with setting the stage for the attack on Washington.
We take a look at the United States' defensive strategy and Britain's revised offensive strategy on the East Coast and the Great Lakes. We discuss a phenomenal battle on Lake Erie between US commander Oliver Perry and British Commander Robert Barclay and review a potential attack on the nation’s capital.
We discuss a few battles (land, sea, and political), Madison's re-election struggles, Napoleon's problems in Moscow, and another decision to invade Canada.
In this episode, I sit with Raymond Lott, better known as the Marine Rapper. If you don’t follow him on social media, you should. This guy is driven, and I wanted to bring him on board to talk about his time in the Marine Corps and his journey to becoming the Marine Rapper. He served with the First Marine Division as a Combat Correspondent and was deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan. What I respect most about this Marine is his dedication to other veterans. He created Ninja Punch Music and used his platform to promote active duty and military veteran artists through various music and video projects. Visit this motivator here:
Website: https://themilitarymusician.com/
Instagram: @themarinerapper
Facebook: @themarinerapper
Twitter: @themarinerapper
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYZnxoe44MeDtcJY4zSglCA
iTunes: https://music.apple.com/us/album/star-spangled-banger-single/1161998870
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/20js0lxMsFUHEwlmWTGqpL
Katie is the first female Blue Angel pilot and flew the illustrious C-130, affectionately known as Fat Albert. She has a fantastic story about her time in Afghanistan. I had a great time speaking with Katie. I hope you enjoy! Follow her on Twitter and Instagram.
Instagram: @gearupflapsup
Twitter: @gearupflapsup
This episode gets into a few battles. We’ll briefly talk about the Army’s failure to invade Canada and move into a famous battle at sea involving the Constitution and the Guerriere.
This episode gets into the War of 1812. As with all other wars, we’ll start by discussing why the United States declared war with Great Britain. We’ll get into some politics, policies, American public opinion, and cover what the Marine Corps has been up to after Presley O’Bannon and his Marines left Derne.
Lear’s deal handed Yusuf a way out of certain defeat, allowing him to save face and retain power. The United States agreed to pay Yusuf $60,000 for the Philadelphia prisoners, withdraw from Derne, and leave Hamet’s fate to chance.
This episode examines the fallout of that decision—how Eaton fought back, how Yusuf solidified his rule, and how the news was taken back home.
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After months of hardship, battle, and sacrifice, the Marines and their allies had secured Derne. O’Bannon’s men had fought hard, losing two Marines in the assault. But the fight wasn’t over. Yusuf’s troops regrouped and mounted a counterattack, hoping to drive out the Americans and take Hamet prisoner. The defenders, backed by American warships, held their ground, repelling wave after wave of assaults.
As they prepared for the final push toward Tripoli, the campaign was suddenly cut short. A peace deal was being negotiated, and the Marines who had fought to secure Derne were now being ordered to abandon it.
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This episode follows Lieutenant Presley O’Bannon and his small Marine detachment as they join William Eaton on a difficult 500-mile march across the desert. Alongside a mixed force of mercenaries and Bedouins, they faced supply shortages, internal conflicts, and the constant threat of attack.
Their goal was to capture the city of Derne and establish a foothold against Tripoli. This would be one of the Marine Corps’ earliest and most challenging ground campaigns, testing their discipline and resilience in ways they hadn’t faced before.
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Last week, we saw the humiliating surrender of the Philadelphia. After running aground, Captain Bainbridge and his crew struggled for hours to free the ship, but their efforts were pointless. Faced with no escape, they were forced to surrender to the Tripolitans.
The crew, including 38 Marines, was taken captive. Some resisted, including Bainbridge himself, who fought off a pirate attempting to steal a locket from his neck. Stripped of their belongings, the prisoners were marched through Tripoli as crowds jeered and spat at them.
Meanwhile, the Philadelphia, once a symbol of American power, was now in enemy hands. But the war was far from over.
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The United States, barely three decades old, faced a crisis that tested its identity and resolve. After fighting a revolution to escape paying tribute to a distant empire, Americans found themselves doing the same—but this time to Barbary pirates. Captain William Bainbridge’s humiliating ordeal in Algiers exposed the weakness of U.S. foreign policy, forcing a national reckoning. With Thomas Jefferson in office, America would no longer tolerate extortion. A new era had begun—one that would shape the nation’s military and diplomatic future.
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The Barbary Wars are often overshadowed by the American Revolution and the War of 1812, but they were the first real test of the United States’ ability to project power on the global stage. For too long, European nations had dealt with the Barbary States through ransom and tribute payments, essentially buying peace rather than enforcing it. America, at first, did the same. But when demands grew too high and national pride was on the line, the United States made a decision that would define its future—it chose to fight.
To understand why the United States went to war with Tripoli, we have to go back long before Jefferson, long before the American Revolution—even before Europeans knew the Americas existed. The roots of this conflict stretch back centuries, shaped by empires, religion, and the brutal economics of the slave trade. This is the story of the Barbary pirates and how their reign of terror finally met its match.
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The newly reestablished Marine Corps wasted no time proving its worth. As war raged at sea, Marines played a role in shipboard combat, manning the rigging as sharpshooters, defending against boarding parties, and unleashing devastating musket fire.
Their expertise turned the tide in battles like the Constellation’s fight against La Vengeance and Experiment’s brutal engagement with Haitian pirates. Marines also fought on land, reinforcing besieged positions and launching daring assaults.
Meanwhile, political battles in Washington shaped the future of the Corps as Congress debated its role and funding. Despite their battlefield success, the Marines faced an uncertain future.
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The Quasi-War raged on in the early 1800s, and the U.S. Navy faced one of its fiercest battles yet. Captain Thomas Truxton and the Constellation set out to challenge French naval power in the Caribbean. Their target: La Vengeance, a heavily armed 54-gun frigate carrying troops, prisoners, and French wealth.
What followed was a brutal, five-hour engagement in the dead of night—cannons roaring, rigging shredded, and Marines holding the line with deadly accuracy. Truxton’s relentless firepower forced the French ship into retreat, proving that the young American Navy could stand against the world’s best.
Today, we break down the battle that earned Constellation the nickname “The Yankee Racehorse” and explore the growing legacy of the Marine Corps in the fight for America’s place at sea.
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In the face of escalating attacks by French privateers, the United States needed more than diplomacy—it needed warships. Congress responded by authorizing the construction of six frigates, vessels designed to be faster and more maneuverable than the massive ships of the line used by European navies. These frigates weren’t just built for defense; they were hunters, armed with powerful 18- and 24-pound cannons capable of unleashing devastating broadsides.
Designed by naval architect Joshua Humphreys, they featured sleek, reinforced hulls that could outrun and outgun most threats. Their arrival signaled a turning point for American naval power. No longer just a vulnerable young republic, the United States was ready to fight back—and the first test of these warships was about to begin.
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Tensions with France were at a breaking point. Jay’s Treaty, the seizure of American ships, and the XYZ Affair had fueled public outrage, forcing the U.S. to choose between diplomacy and war.
President John Adams sought peace, but pressure mounted. Federalists, led by Alexander Hamilton, pushed for military expansion, while Thomas Jefferson’s Democratic-Republicans feared a slide into tyranny.
Congress responded by creating the Department of the Navy, re-establishing the Marine Corps, and passing the Alien and Sedition Acts—clear signs that America was preparing for conflict.
This episode explores the political battles, military buildup, and high-stakes diplomacy that led to the Quasi-War.
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By the late 18th century, the United States was caught in a growing storm of international conflict. France, once a crucial ally in the Revolution, now viewed America with suspicion and anger. The young republic’s decision to strengthen trade with Britain through Jay’s Treaty felt like a betrayal, and France responded aggressively.
French privateers began seizing American merchant ships, escalating tensions into an undeclared naval war. Diplomacy faltered as both sides hardened their positions, leading to open hostility on the seas. American sailors were harassed, captured, and even tortured, fueling anti-French sentiment back home.
As George Washington’s presidency ended, John Adams inherited a foreign crisis that threatened to drag the United States into full-scale war. With American trade routes under attack and political divisions at home growing deeper, the nation faced a pivotal moment—one that would test its commitment to neutrality and reshape its relationship with the world.
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The Continental Marines fought bravely for over seven years, proving their value in both land and naval battles. However, they never became the large structured force Congress originally envisioned. Instead of fully formed battalions, Marine units were assembled piecemeal, with captains recruiting their own detachments. Despite their small numbers, they played a crucial role in securing American independence.
By the war’s end, financial strain made it impossible to maintain a standing Marine Corps. Congress struggled to fund even the remnants of the Continental Navy, forcing the nation to disband its Marine force entirely. But while the Continental Marines faded from existence, their legacy endured. Their actions in the Revolution set the foundation for what would later become the United States Marine Corps, which would return stronger in the face of America’s next conflicts.
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As we approach the final chapters of our series on Marines in the American Revolution, we'll look beyond the Continental Marines and recognize the contributions of State and Privateer Marines. These groups operated outside the formal structure of the Continental Navy, yet they were instrumental in protecting colonial waters and attacking British commerce.
The Alliance remained one of the few ships still carrying out missions and we'll take a look at Marines seeking prize money, officers demanding long-overdue pay, and an uncertain future for those still in service. With the sale of the Alliance in 1785, the last vestige of the Continental Navy was gone, marking the end of the Marine presence in the Revolutionary War.
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The Continental Marines played a pivotal role in the American Revolution, serving as shock troops, naval infantry, and shipboard guards. However, by 1779, their reputation and effectiveness were deeply shaken. The disastrous Penobscot Expedition cast doubt on their capabilities, and instead of launching amphibious assaults, Marines found themselves guarding British prisoners on repurposed ships. Recruitment faltered, and desertions, disease, and mutinies plagued their ranks. Leadership struggles, especially aboard the Alliance under Captain Pierre Landais, further weakened their cohesion.
Despite these setbacks, Marines proved their resilience in battle. At Flamborough Head, under John Paul Jones, they played a decisive role in the legendary victory over the HMS Serapis, raining musket fire and grenades from the rigging. But by 1781, their numbers had dwindled, with only two frigates—Alliance and Deane—still carrying Marine detachments. Yet, their legacy endured. While official numbers shrank, Privateer and State Marines continued the fight, ensuring that the Marine Corps' tradition of adaptability, discipline, and tenacity remained alive as America edged closer to independence.
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What started as a promising attempt to reclaim Maine from the British ended in complete disaster. Despite superior numbers and early successes, American forces fell victim to weak leadership, constant delays, and a lack of coordination.
The Marines played a key role in the initial assault, scaling cliffs under enemy fire to secure the landing. But with no support from the fleet, their gains were wasted. As commanders debated instead of acting, British reinforcements arrived, and the American fleet was forced into a desperate retreat. One by one, ships were either destroyed or captured.
This episode uncovers the story of a mission that had every chance of success but collapsed under its own weight. From battlefield heroism to strategic blunders, we’ll explore how this defeat shaped America’s military thinking and why it remains one of the greatest failures in early U.S. naval history.
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The Penobscot Expedition was one of the most ambitious—and ultimately disastrous—naval campaigns of the American Revolution. What should have been a swift victory against the British turned into a chaotic struggle marked by poor coordination, internal disputes, and missed opportunities.
Despite early successes, like the Marines’ capture of Banks Island, hesitation and miscommunication eroded the expedition’s momentum. Meanwhile, the British strengthened their defenses daily, turning their outpost into a fortress.
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Captain James Willing was given a mission: disrupt British control of the Mississippi River. What followed was a campaign that blurred the lines between patriotism and piracy. Armed with a growing force of Marines and volunteers, Willing’s men swept through the region, raiding loyalist plantations, seizing ships, and forcing Britain to fight on yet another front. But as his victories stacked up, so did the consequences. Local resentment grew, Spain’s neutrality wavered, and the American cause suffered unintended backlash.
Meanwhile, in the wake of Willing’s expedition, the Continental Navy was struggling to keep its warships manned and operational. Recruitment was slow, as privateering offered better pay and fewer restrictions. Desperate for sailors and Marines, captains placed ads in newspapers, promising adventure and prize money. Even when ships like the Warren, Queen of France, and Boston finally set sail, they faced internal conflicts, mass desertions, and corruption among their officers. The Navy’s fight for survival mirrored the broader war effort—a desperate struggle against both the British and their own limitations.
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The loss of the Randolph was only the beginning of a brutal year for the Continental Navy. The Alfred fell to the British, its crew was taken prisoner, and the Raleigh barely escaped. Captain Thompson’s failure to support Alfred led to his dismissal, and the British blockade continued to strangle American supply lines. Yet, even in defeat, Marines found ways to fight back, escaping captivity and continuing the struggle. In this episode, we dive into the naval battles, leadership missteps, and the resilience of the Marines who refused to surrender.
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Battles aren't always won through brute force—sometimes, deception and speed are the sharpest weapons. Captain Trevett’s raid on Nassau in 1776 was a masterclass in both. With only 26 Marines, he captured Fort Nassau by stealth, securing much-needed gunpowder and supplies without losing a single Marine. Lieutenant Molten seized Fort Montagu just as easily, and Marines also took several British ships, including the Mary, stocked with weapons, rum, and coffee.
But the British weren’t far behind. A 500-man garrison and a well-armed privateer threatened to retake what the Marines had stolen. Trevett had to outmaneuver his enemies, using bluffs and quick thinking to escape Nassau with everything intact. This operation was more than a daring raid—it was a critical moment in early Marine Corps history, proving their ability to strike fast, hit hard, and disappear before the enemy could react.
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The British seized Philadelphia in late 1777, forcing American ships like the Boston and the Providence to scramble for men and supplies, often amid desertion and lack of discipline. John Paul Jones clashed bitterly with Lieutenant Thomas Simpson over command of the Ranger, ultimately losing his ship to the very officer he’d charged with insubordination. Meanwhile, the Boston struggled to crew up before ferrying John Adams to France, where he joined commissioners securing the new French alliance. This alliance transformed the war’s scope—Britain refocused on defending its coasts and colonies, while Americans like Captain Rathbun and Marine Captain John Trevett grew bolder, setting their sights on British strongholds like Fort Nassau. Despite setbacks, the Continental Navy and Marines pressed on, refining their tactics, forging new recruits, and striking wherever Britain was vulnerable.
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The American Revolution wasn’t just fought on land—it raged across the seas, where the Continental Marines played a crucial role. One of their most daring missions came in 1778 aboard the Ranger, under the command of John Paul Jones. Sailing across the Atlantic, Marines and sailors struck British trade routes, launched raids, and brought the war to enemy shores. Their courage and discipline were tested in battles like the raid on Whitehaven and the clash with HMS Drake. These Marines proved that even a small, determined force could challenge the world’s most powerful navy.
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As winter tightened its grip, General Washington's army faced immense challenges after several defeats. Outnumbered and pursued by British forces under General William Howe, Washington turned to Major Nicholas and his Marines aboard the frigates Delaware and Washington to strengthen his defenses.
At the same time, General Israel Putnam worked to protect Philadelphia, striving to prevent British ships like the HMS Roebuck from blocking the city. Fearing the loss of their valuable fleet, Congress ordered the Randolph and Hornet to defend the Delaware River. The British threat was so significant that American leaders even considered burning their own ships rather than allowing them to be captured. Amid this tension, Washington made a daring decision: crossing the ice-choked Delaware River on Christmas night to launch a surprise attack on the Hessians at Trenton. With the crucial support of the Marines, Washington’s bold move reinvigorated the American cause and marked a turning point in the quest for independence.
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The challenges faced by Continental forces during the Revolution extended far beyond the battlefield. Recruitment was a constant struggle, with many soldiers deserting or opting for more profitable privateering roles. Meanwhile, Congress fought to fund a navy that could compete with Britain’s overwhelming fleet. In response, leaders like Robert Morris and John Paul Jones embraced bold strategies, raiding British colonies and targeting the transatlantic slave trade.
In the middle of this chaos, Marines rose to the occasion.Mastering naval combat and boarding actions aboard the Ranger and Randolph, they stopped mutinies, resolved supply shortages, and stabilized leadership. As the conflict intensified, the Marines would continue to prove themselves, playing a key role in the next phase of the Revolution.
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The Revolutionary War is rich with famous leaders like George Washington and John Paul Jones, but history also owes much to individuals like Marine John Trevett. His story, while overlooked, offers a fascinating look into the sacrifices and struggles of the Continental Navy and Marine Corps. From his service aboard the Providence to bold missions like the Raid of the Bahamas, Trevett’s contributions proved vital to the fight for independence.
In today’s episode, we’ll explore how Trevett’s courage, resilience, and ingenuity shaped key moments in America’s naval history. His story highlights the unsung contributions of those who helped forge the path to freedom.
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Cadwalader led his men deeper into New Jersey, with Marines at his side. Supplies dwindled, shoes fell apart, and icy winds pierced their thin coats. Despite these hardships, they pressed on, scavenging Hessian gear and relying on local towns for provisions. Each minor victory sparked hope, though desertions and illness thinned their ranks.
The Marines played key roles in pivotal clashes—at Trenton, the defense of Assunpink Creek, and Princeton. Nicholas’s men stood shoulder-to-shoulder with the Continental Army, facing British and Hessian forces directly.
By the time they reached Morristown, the Marines were dispersed—some folded into Army units, others reassigned to new ships. Yet their ingenuity and fighting spirit left a lasting mark, shaping the course of battle.
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As winter tightened its grip, General Washington's army faced immense challenges after several defeats. Outnumbered and pursued by British forces under General William Howe, Washington turned to Major Nicholas and his Marines aboard the frigates Delaware and Washington to strengthen his defenses.
At the same time, General Israel Putnam worked to protect Philadelphia, striving to prevent British ships like the HMS Roebuck from blocking the city. Fearing the loss of their valuable fleet, Congress ordered the Randolph and Hornet to defend the Delaware River. The British threat was so significant that American leaders even considered burning their own ships rather than allowing them to be captured. Amid this tension, Washington made a daring decision: crossing the ice-choked Delaware River on Christmas night to launch a surprise attack on the Hessians at Trenton. With the crucial support of the Marines, Washington’s bold move reinvigorated the American cause and marked a turning point in the quest for independence.
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Major Samuel Nicholas, the first Marine Commandant, organized new detachments for freshly built frigates like the Washington, Randolph, Effingham, and Delaware. Officers like Benjamin Dean and Andrew Porter tackled recruitment challenges, while men like Robert Maullen recruited Marines from Philadelphia’s taverns and endured British captivity.
Though short on resources, these Marines guarded key locations, prepared for shipboard combat, and even marched north to defend Philadelphia from a potential British invasion. Meanwhile, Commodore Esek Hopkins faced scrutiny for the Bahamas raid, and Captains Dudley Saltonstall and Abraham Whipple came under investigation.
Amid political turmoil, disease, and shortages, the Marines developed discipline and honed their combat skills. As General Washington retreated across New Jersey, Marine units readied for action, standing firm in their commitment to independence.
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By early 1776, Captain Miles Pennington was recruiting Marines aboard the Reprisal, laying the groundwork for what would become a legendary fighting force. These new recruits quickly faced their first challenge during the Fire Boats Operation, using burning vessels to disrupt British ships. Officers like Luke Matthewman and Robert Scott worked tirelessly to fill the ranks of the Lexington, embracing the Marine mindset of improvising and adapting.
Commodore Esek Hopkins and the Reprisal clashed with British patrols in the Caribbean, forging French alliances while capturing enemy prizes. The Lexington seized British vessels as well, including a bold Marine-led recapture.
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After seizing weapons and supplies during their daring raid in the Bahamas, the Continental Marines returned from their first amphibious operation with renewed purpose. As Philadelphia fortified the Delaware River, bracing for inevitable attacks on major ports, America’s navy expanded its reach. Ships like the Lexington and Reprisal clashed with British frigates, testing the colonies’ power at sea. Bold captains like John Barry and Lambert Wickes captured prizes, recruited Marines, and showed Britain’s navy was not invincible. These early hard-fought victories set the stage for greater coordination between land and sea forces, expanding the Revolutionary War’s scope.
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In the spring of 1776, the Continental Navy and Marine Corps launched a daring mission in the Bahamas. Commodore Esek Hopkins and Captain Samuel Nicholas led a fleet south to secure critical supplies, pivoting from Virginia to New Providence after British reinforcements arrived. Guided by captured sailors through dangerous reefs, over 200 Marines seized Fort Montagu overnight. Although 162 barrels of gunpowder were hidden, they captured cannons, ammunition, and other supplies. Fort Nassau fell days later without resistance. This first amphibious assault demonstrated the Marine Corps’ potential in complex operations.
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Commodore Esek Hopkins assembled America’s first Continental Navy, leading a small fleet eager to take action against British forces. After weeks trapped in ice on the Delaware River during the winter of 1776, Hopkins chose to bypass a potential confrontation with Lord Dunmore in Virginia, deciding to sail south for a bold raid on the Bahamas instead. This British-controlled territory was believed to hold a critical cache of gunpowder and munitions vital for the colonial war effort. With Marines under Samuel Nicholas, the newly established Corps prepared for its first amphibious assault, ultimately targeting New Providence. Local defenses were sparse, and officials had not anticipated an invasion so distant from New England. Relying on the element of surprise, Hopkins and Nicholas led the fledgling Navy and Marines in an audacious operation aimed at capturing valuable supplies, boosting morale, and proving that the young American forces could challenge the British Empire. Their success in this mission set a precedent for the Marines’ role in amphibious warfare and underlined the colonies’ determination to fight back.
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George Washington wasn’t thrilled about pulling two battalions from his Army to create a whole new military branch. He had bigger battles to fight and limited resources to stretch. When Congress decided the country needed a Marine Corps, they handed the task to Samuel Nicholas.
In today’s episode, we'll take a look at the whirlwind of chaotic recruiting efforts, financial headaches, and tavern meetings that would lay the foundation for one of the most storied military forces in history.
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Tensions between England and its American colonies erupted into open conflict after Lexington and Concord, rallying undecided colonists to the rebel cause. In Massachusetts, militias surrounded Boston, placing it under siege, while provisional assemblies struggled to support volunteers who were eager but untrained. Amid this chaos, the Second Continental Congress acted decisively, forming the Continental Army, Navy, and Marines in 1775, setting the foundation for the modern U.S. Marine Corps.
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In this episode, we delve into General Thomas Gage’s daunting task of enforcing the Intolerable Acts in a colony teetering on rebellion. While Britain sought control, colonists quietly stockpiled weapons and boycotted British goods. Tensions boiled over when Paul Revere’s midnight ride spread the alarm of Redcoat movements, rallying farmers, shopkeepers, and tradesmen to take a stand.
The rebellion escalated with a daring raid on Fort William and Mary, where colonists seized weapons, further enraging Britain. When the first shots were fired at Lexington and Concord, ordinary colonists proved they were ready to fight. This pivotal clash shattered any hope for reconciliation, prompting the creation of a united army under George Washington
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Boston in 1768 was a city teetering on the edge. British troops enforced oppressive taxes, soldiers patrolled the streets, and freedoms once taken for granted began to slip away. Liberty Poles symbolized defiance, and the death of young Christopher Seider fueled public anger, leading to the infamous Boston Massacre.
The Tea Act pushed tensions further, culminating in the Boston Tea Party and Britain’s swift retaliation with the Intolerable Acts. Instead of isolating Massachusetts, these actions united the colonies and lit the fuse for revolution.
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Today, we’re diving into the restless spirit of the colonies that gave rise to the Marine Corps. Enlightenment ideals clashed with Britain’s post-war taxes, pushing the colonists toward rebellion. Financial strains, imposed regulations, and the growing desire for liberty united thirteen diverse colonies into a common cause.
It’s a story of bold thinkers, mounting debt, and ordinary people demanding a voice. These pressures laid the foundation for a new nation and introduced a new kind of military force to the colonies: the Marine. Inspired by Enlightenment ideas, leading colonists reinforced the belief that authority should serve the people, sparking protests, boycotts, and united action.
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Samuel Nicholas was born in February 1744 into a prominent Philadelphia family deeply engaged in the city's social and commercial life. Growing up among merchants, sailors, and influential thinkers, he studied at the Academy of Philadelphia, an institution guided by Benjamin Franklin's progressive educational ideals that would eventually become the University of Pennsylvania.
This episode will take a look at some of his accomplishments, such as introducing the "leatherneck" uniform, leading the Marines' first amphibious assault in the Bahamas, and supporting General Washington in key campaigns.
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Colonial Philadelphia offered ambitious immigrants, like Samuel and Joshua Carpenter, opportunities in the thriving tavern trade. Quaker roots and friction with William Penn didn’t stop them from shaping the city through wharf construction, tavern ownership, and real estate. Their Tun Tavern gained fame as the birthplace of the Marine Corps, blending faith, commerce, and public life. Women, too, found empowerment as tavern-keepers, influencing Philadelphia’s social and economic growth. This episode delves into how these forces defined the city’s evolution and America’s heritage.
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In this episode, we go back to colonial America, where citizens rallied in taverns to protect their rights. We’ll explore Tunn Tavern—the birthplace of the Continental Marines—and see how William Penn’s vision molded Philadelphia into a hub of debate. We’ll also stop at City Tavern, where revolutionary ideas shaped the nation. By comparing taverns to today’s social networks, we’ll see how small gatherings can spark big changes. Join us to uncover American liberty’s roots and the Marine Corps’ steadfast spirit forged in these historic taverns.
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Welcome! We're excited to launch our new podcast - History of the Marine Corps. Join us as we explore the history and traditions of the United States Marine Corps from November 10, 1775 to today. In this episode, we introduce the History of the Marine Corps series and provide a short clip of Episode 2: Tavern Life in Colonial America.
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