Commencing with a brilliant record in the War of Independence, the Corps took a major part in the fighting in the War of 1812 and the defence of Washington. They also figured prominently in the war with Mexico. cement, of both islands was' taken over. In Cuba they played an important part during the battle of Santiago Bay.
During the World War the Marines formed part of the great expeditionary force which arrived in France in June 1917, more than 20,000 men from the Corps being among the first troops to set foot on French soil. As part of the Second: Division they distinguished themselves in many battles. Today the Marine Corps holds an exalted position among the fighting forces' of their country and their record is one of which they may be justifiably proud.
During the Civil War the ranks of the "Leathernecks" were divided between the North and the South, later becoming united once more as the fighting was brought to a conclusion, In the Spanish American War the Marines served both ashore and afloat and were with Dewey in Manila Bay, taking part in the capture of Cavite and the storming of Manila.
When the Boxer Rebellion burst into flames in China the Marines were landed to protect foreign lives and property and they also landed and fought in Formosa, Samoa and Korea. From 1900 to 1922 the Corps took part in many expeditions, most of them being to Central American countries. They established peace in Panama and played a major role in the expedition to Nicaragua. In 1914 Marines were landed and Vera Cruz in Mexico captured. They held the city until the arrival of Army units.
Marine landings have also taken place in Haiti and San Domingo and in 1915 when the Great War was raging in Europe the governorship
Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.