Unit History

The famed 2nd Marine Division was one of the U.S. Marine Corps’ most battle-tested units in World War II. Activated in 1925, it played a central role in the island-hopping campaign across the Pacific. The regiment’s baptism of fire came at Guadalcanal in 1942, where it helped secure the island in brutal jungle fighting. It went on to see major action in some of the war’s bloodiest amphibious assaults, including Tarawa in 1943, where the regiment endured staggering casualties storming heavily fortified Japanese positions but ultimately secured the island in just 76 hours. The 2nd Marines later fought at Saipan and Tinian in 1944, contributing to the capture of the Mariana Islands. Finally they fought in the bloody Battle of Okinawa, enduring some of the fiercest combat of the war in the drive to secure the island as a staging ground for a potential invasion of Japan. They ended the war in occupation duty in Nagasaki, Japan, after the surrender. Known for its toughness and determination, the regiment earned a reputation as a hard-hitting force that helped pave the way for Allied victory in the Pacific.

Our Vision

Our reenactment group strives to authentically honor the legacy of World War II soldiers by combining education, history, and immersive experiences. Through public battle reenactments, we bring the sights, sounds, and stories of the era to life for audiences, while private tacticals give our members the chance to train, maneuver, and experience the challenges of period combat in a more realistic setting. Because we portray active combat units, participants are expected to maintain reasonable physical fitness to fully engage in marches, drills, and battlefield scenarios. Above all, our goal is to create a respectful, accurate, and engaging environment where both reenactors and the public can better understand the sacrifices and experiences of those who served in WWII.

Equipment:

Priority Items:

  • P-41 Cap

  • P-42 HBT Uniform

  • White or Green T shirt

  • Trouser Belt

  • USMC Dog Tags

  • Army Roughouts of Marine Boondockers

  • M1 Helmet with M-42 Cover

  • M41 Suspenders

  • 2 Canteens. Covers can be 1st, 2nd, or 3rd Patterns

  • First Aid Pouch

  • Cartridge belt (Army or USMC)

  • M1 or M1 Carbine Rife

  • Ka-Bar Knife

Optional Items:

  • M42 Haversack and Knapsack

  • Pack Straps

  • 5/8 Web Straps

  • T Handle Shove

  • M1910 Shovel Carrier

  • WW2 Mess Tin

  • USMC Reversal Poncho

  • M2 Jungle First Aid Pouch

  • Wool Blanket

  • Camouflage Shelter Half with Ropes

  • P-42 Camouflage Uniform

  • M-41 Field Jacket

If you’re interested in island hopping with the 2nd Marines, we encourage you to reach out to our leadership team with any questions. Whether you’re curious about requirements, events, or the commitment involved, our staff is happy to guide you. Don’t hesitate to contact us—we’re always eager to welcome dedicated reenactors who want to help keep this history alive.

Steven Smith

C/1/2 Platoon SERGEANT (reenacted)

Leadership Contacts

Contact
Contact
Karsten Earles

SENIOR AIRMAN E-4 USAF

C/1/2 SERGEANT (reenacted)