The Marine Corps

The United States Marine Corps is one of the most famous military units in the world. The Marine Corps: Three Centuries of Glory tells the story behind one of the most famous military units in the world from its creation in the 18th century through to the present day. 


The book begins with the Marine Corps’ origins during the colonial period, where battalions of American Marines were raised to fight alongside their British counterparts. It was not until 1798, however, that the Marine Corps was officially created by an act of Congress. Since that date, it has fought in Central America, China, both world wars, Korea, Vietnam, Beirut, Grenada, Iraq and Afghanistan.


The book describes the full combat record of Marines and details the Corps’ organization, equipment, uniforms, and insignia. Some of the men who have made the Corps what it is today are profiled, as are the key events where the Marine Corps has gained its glorious reputation—Belleau Wood, Iwo Jima, Inchon, Khe Sanh—these great battles are core battles for any student of military history. 


Written in an engaging yet informative style, the Marine Corps is a classic history of one of the world’s greatest fighting units.


Semper Fidelis! (Always faithful!)

—Marine Corps motto


Since I joined the Marines, I have advocated aggressiveness in the field and constant offensive action. Hit quickly, hit hard, and keep right on hitting. 

—General Holland M. “Howlin’ Mad” Smith, U.S. Marine Corps