The 1st Battalion, 12th Marines (1/12) is a United States Marine Corps artillery battalion based out of Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan. The battalion is part of the 12th Marine Regiment and the 3rd Marine Division. With a rich history dating back to 1922, the 1/12 has undergone numerous transformations and deployments, consistently demonstrating its versatility and commitment to supporting ground combat operations.
History and Lineage
The 1st Battalion, 12th Marines, was initially activated on July 1, 1922, as the 1st Battalion, 10th Regiment, at Quantico, Virginia. Over the years, the unit has undergone several redesignations, with its current title being adopted in 1944. Throughout World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War, the 1⁄12 has played a significant role, providing artillery support to various Marine Corps operations. The battalion’s deployments have been marked by numerous awards and commendations, including the Presidential Unit Citation, the Navy Unit Commendation, and the Meritorious Unit Commendation.
Organization and Structure
The 1st Battalion, 12th Marines, is organized into a headquarters battery and four firing batteries: Alpha, Bravo, Charlie, and Delta. Each firing battery is equipped with the M777A2 155mm howitzer, a towed artillery piece capable of delivering precision-guided munitions. The battalion’s structure is designed to provide flexible and responsive artillery support to Marine Air-Ground Task Forces (MAGTFs) and other joint forces. The 1⁄12’s organizational flexibility allows it to adapt to a wide range of scenarios, from amphibious assaults to urban warfare.
| Battery | Primary Mission |
|---|---|
| Headquarters Battery | Battalion command and control, logistics, and communications |
| Alpha Battery | Direct support to infantry battalions with 155mm howitzer fires |
| Bravo Battery | General support to Marine Air-Ground Task Forces with 155mm howitzer fires |
| Charlie Battery | Direct support to infantry battalions with 155mm howitzer fires |
| Delta Battery | Target acquisition and reconnaissance in support of artillery operations |
Key Points
- The 1st Battalion, 12th Marines, is a US Marine Corps artillery battalion based in Okinawa, Japan.
- The battalion has a rich history, with numerous deployments and awards, including the Presidential Unit Citation.
- The 1/12 is organized into a headquarters battery and four firing batteries, each equipped with the M777A2 155mm howitzer.
- The battalion's primary mission is to provide artillery support to Marine Air-Ground Task Forces and other joint forces.
- The 1/12's organizational flexibility allows it to adapt to a wide range of scenarios, from amphibious assaults to urban warfare.
Operations and Training
The 1st Battalion, 12th Marines, conducts regular training exercises and deployments to maintain its readiness and proficiency. The battalion participates in bilateral and multilateral exercises with partner nations, such as the Republic of Korea and Australia, to enhance its interoperability and combat effectiveness. The 1⁄12 also engages in live-fire training exercises, such as the annual Exercise Keen Sword, to test its artillery capabilities and tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs).
Artillery Capabilities
The 1⁄12’s artillery capabilities are centered around the M777A2 155mm howitzer, a highly mobile and accurate artillery piece. The battalion’s gunners are trained to deliver a range of munitions, including high-explosive shells, smoke shells, and precision-guided rounds. The 1⁄12’s artillery capabilities are further enhanced by its use of advanced fire control systems, such as the Advanced Field Artillery Tactical Data System (AFATDS), which enables rapid and precise targeting.
What is the primary mission of the 1st Battalion, 12th Marines?
+The primary mission of the 1/12 is to provide artillery support to Marine Air-Ground Task Forces and other joint forces.
What type of artillery piece does the 1/12 use?
+The 1/12 uses the M777A2 155mm howitzer, a highly mobile and accurate artillery piece.
Where is the 1st Battalion, 12th Marines based?
+The 1/12 is based out of Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan.
In conclusion, the 1st Battalion, 12th Marines, is a highly capable and versatile artillery battalion that plays a critical role in supporting Marine Corps operations. With its rich history, advanced artillery capabilities, and commitment to training and readiness, the 1⁄12 is poised to remain a key component of the Marine Corps’ combat power for years to come.
