Post-War Years in China and Guam - Research Paper Example

Under increased American influence, the improving situation between the Chinese Nationalist and Communist forces led to a cease-fire in January 1946. On April 08, the Regimental Headquarters were moved to Tangshan for the security of the rail lines. As the Nationalist Army began to take over the responsibilities, the Marine units were being relieved in various sectors gradually. Taking advantage of the reduction in Marine numbers, the Communist forces violated the agreement by occupying a vast area in Manchuria left after the departure of Soviet occupation troops. The 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines, was deactivated on April 15. With only a few veterans left, the Regiment (less 1st Battalion) started an intensive schooling program until September, when it returned to Peiping for the security of American personnel and property. (Yingling, 40-41).

On the night of October 03, the 1st Battalion helped to repulse a company size attack by communists on the Hsin-Ho ammunition dump. The Battalion succeeded in recovering most of the stolen ammunition. On April 05, 1947, over 300 communists attacked two other ammunition dumps. Expecting a quick reaction from the 1st Battalion, the enemy had planned an ambush and mined the road leading to the area. As the lead vehicle of the C Company hit the mine, the attackers opened fire. The Marine counter-fire repelled the attack soon. However, despite diligent pursuit, the raiders succeeded in escaping the area along with the loaded ammunition. The Marine casualties included 16 wounded and 05 killed. (Yingling, 41). The 5th Marines were entitled to China Service streamer.

By mid-May, the remaining units of the 1st Division had been withdrawn from China. Most of them were sent back to the United States. However, along with some other supporting units, the 5th Marines was moved to Guam, where it filled in the organization of the 1st Provisional Marine Brigade on June 01, under the command of the Brig. Gen. Edward A. Craig. The 2nd Battalion was also removed in October to form the 9th Marines. For the rest of the period at Guam, The one-battalion regiment was engaged in training exercises to increase the proficiency of its personnel. The three-battalion 5th Marines, under the command of Col. Victor H. Krulak, was reactivated at Camp Pendleton on October 01, 1949. Elements of the 1st, 6th, and 7th Marines formed the 1st and 2nd Battalions, while the 3rd Battalion (at Guam) joined the Regiment in February 1950. (Yingling, 41; Rottman, 170).