06/07/2026
On June 6, 1918, [also start date 01 JUN is oft cited] the Battle of Belleau Wood commenced. Today, we remember and honor the legacy of those Marines who fought at the Battle of Belleau Wood during World War I, those who helped cement the reputation of the Corps as the world's premier fighting force.
During the intense battle, the 4th Marine Brigade, comprised of the 5th and 6th Marine Regiments, and the 6th Machine Gun Battalion, fought aggressively through the wheat fields and woodlands in France, helping to stop a major German advance toward Paris in 1918.
The Battle of Belleau Wood became a major turning point for the Corps, providing Marines with experience in large scale operations.
Semper Fi, Devil Dogs!
U.S. Marine Corps Musée de la Mémoire de Belleau 1914-1918 National Museum of the Marine Corps
On June 6, 1918, the Battle of Belleau Wood commenced. Today, we remember and honor the legacy of those Marines who fought at the Battle of Belleau Wood during World War I, those who helped cement the reputation of the Corps as the world's premier fighting force.
During the intense battle, the 4th Marine Brigade, comprised of the 5th and 6th Marine Regiments, and the 6th Machine Gun Battalion, fought aggressively through the wheat fields and woodlands in France, helping to stop a major German advance toward Paris in 1918.
The Battle of Belleau Wood became a major turning point for the Corps, providing Marines with experience in large scale operations. Surviving German soldiers named the Marines Teufel Hunden or Devil Dogs due to their fierce and relentless tenacity while attacking their positions during the battle. Because of the Marines’ unwavering commitment, the 5th and 6th Marine Regiments were awarded the French Croix de Guerre, an award presented to individuals or units for acts of valor and bravery on the battlefield.
Semper Fi, Devil Dogs!
U.S. Marine Corps Musée de la Mémoire de Belleau 1914-1918 National Museum of the Marine Corps