5th Marine Division (United States)

The 5th Marine Division was a United States Marine Corps infantry division activated during World War II and again in the late 1960s for service in the Vietnam War. It was deactivated on both occasions.

World War II:

The 5th Marine Division was activated at Camp Pendleton, California, on November 11, 1944. Its initial core was drawn from experienced Marines returning from combat in the Pacific Theater, as well as newly trained recruits. The division participated in the Battle of Iwo Jima in February and March 1945, sustaining heavy casualties. Following Iwo Jima, the 5th Marine Division remained in the Pacific and was preparing for the invasion of Japan (Operation Downfall) when the war ended. The division was deactivated on February 5, 1946.

Vietnam War:

The 5th Marine Division was reactivated on March 1, 1966, at Camp Pendleton, California, in response to the escalating conflict in Vietnam. It deployed to the Republic of Vietnam in stages, beginning in 1966. The division operated primarily in the northern I Corps Tactical Zone, near the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). Key operations included Operation Hastings, Operation Prairie, and the fighting around Khe Sanh. The 5th Marine Division played a significant role in defending against North Vietnamese Army offensives. As part of the overall reduction of U.S. forces in Vietnam, the 5th Marine Division began its stand-down in 1969 and was formally deactivated on September 26, 1969, at Camp Pendleton. Many of its personnel and equipment were transferred to the 1st Marine Division.

Notable Units:

Notable units that served within the 5th Marine Division included the 13th Marine Regiment, 26th Marine Regiment, and 27th Marine Regiment.