In support of the Commandant’s direction that, during the 244th anniversary of the birth of the Marine Corps, all Marines intensely study their profession to “grasp the implications of rapid change around us,” this case study reviews four historical examples of the Marine Corps learning and adapting to the changing character of warfare. This case study will reinforce three primary objectives in that regard. First, Marines will understand the historical precedence for adaptation. Second, Marines will recognize and embrace in mind and spirit the imperative to meet current and future operational challenges. Third, Marines will kindle a Corps-wide enthusiasm for learning and adaptation as embodied in their legacy.
Primary Source Supplementary Material
World War I:
World War II:
- Okinawa, 6th Marine Division, Special Action Report, Phases 1 and 2, Volume 2, 30 April 1945
- Okinawa, 6th Marine Division, Special Action Report, Phase 4, Volume 4, 30 June 1945
- Okinawa, 6th Marine Division, Special Action Report, Phase 3, Volume 3, 30 June 1945
- Okinawa, 6th Marine Division, Special Action Report, Phases 1 and 2, Volume 1, 30 April 1945
- Saipan, Commander, Amphibious Forces, Pacific, Task Force 52.2, August 1944
- Saipan, Northern Troops and Landing Force Report, August 1944
- Gilbert Islands, Commander, 5th Amphibious Force Report, 4 December 1943 [1 of 2]
- Gilbert Islands, Commander, 5th Amphibious Force Report, 4 December 1943 [2 of 2]
Vietnam: Operation Starlite
- Regimental Landing Team-7, After Action Report (Operation Starlite), 31 August 1965
- 3d Battalion, 3d Marines, Vietnam War Command Chronology, August 1965
- 2d Battalion, 4th Marines - Vietnam War Command Chronology, August 1965
- After Action Report, Operation Starlite, 18 August - 18 September 1965
- Marine Aircraft Group 16, Vietnam War Command Chronology, July - August 1965
Vietnam: Operation Harvest Moon
Vietnam: Khe Sanh
Vietnam: Hue
Iraq: an-Nasiriyah
Iraq: an-Najaf
Iraq: Fallujah