21st Marine Regiment (United States)

The 21st Marine Regiment (21st Marines) was an infantry regiment of the United States Marine Corps. Activated for service in World War II, they fought in the battles of Bougainville, Guam and Iwo Jima. They fell under the 3rd Marine Division and were deactivated after the end of the war on December 20, 1945.

Subordinate units
The Regiment was composed of three infantry battalions and one headquarters battalion:

History


The 21st Marine Regiment was activated on July 14, 1942 at Camp Elliot, San Diego, California but was actually organized at New River, North Carolina. Many of the first members of the regiment came from the 6th Marine Regiment. They were assigned to the 3rd Marine Division, however from January to June 1943 they were an independent regiment. During the war, the regiment took part in the Battle of Bougainville, Battle of Guam and the Battle of Iwo Jima. Following the Japanese surrender, 21st Marines moved to Guam where they were deactivated on December 20, 1945.

Notable members

 * Hershel W. Williams - Medal of Honor recipient