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The First to Land: The Royal Marines Saga

Manuel Butler

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Published in The First To Land (The Royal Marines Saga 2)

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The Royal Marines are an elite fighting force that has served the British Crown for over 350 years. Their motto, "Per Mare, Per Terram" (By Sea, By Land),reflects their unique ability to operate in both aquatic and terrestrial environments. The Royal Marines have fought in countless conflicts, from the Napoleonic Wars to the present day, and have earned a reputation for bravery, professionalism, and unwavering commitment.

This article will explore the history of the Royal Marines, from their humble beginnings to their present-day status as one of the world's premier fighting forces. We will follow the Royal Marines through some of their most famous battles, including the Normandy landings, the Korean War, and the Falklands War. We will also examine the training and equipment that make the Royal Marines such a formidable force.

The First to Land (The Royal Marines Saga 2)

The First to Land (The Royal Marines Saga Book 2)

by Douglas Reeman

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	515 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
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Print length	:	302 pages

Origins and Formation

The origins of the Royal Marines can be traced back to the 16th century, when England was engaged in a series of wars with Spain. In 1552, a group of seafaring raiders led by Sir Francis Drake began landing on the Spanish coast and harassing Spanish shipping. These raiders were known as the "Sea Dogs," and they were the forerunners of the Royal Marines.

In 1664, King Charles II officially established the Royal Marines as a permanent force. The Marines were initially responsible for providing security for the Royal Navy's ships, but they soon began to be used in amphibious operations. In 1702, the Marines participated in the Battle of Blenheim, where they played a key role in the Allied victory.

The Napoleonic Wars

The Royal Marines played a major role in the Napoleonic Wars (1803-1815). They fought in numerous amphibious operations, including the capture of Copenhagen in 1807 and the Battle of New Orleans in 1815. The Marines also played a key role in the defense of Gibraltar against the Spanish siege.

During the Napoleonic Wars, the Royal Marines developed a reputation for their toughness and professionalism. They were known for their ability to fight in all types of conditions, and they were often called upon to lead the charge in amphibious assaults.

The Crimean War

The Royal Marines also fought in the Crimean War (1854-1856). They participated in the Siege of Sevastopol, where they played a key role in the Allied victory. The Marines also fought in the Battle of the Alma, where they earned the nickname "the Thin Red Line."

The Crimean War was a turning point in the history of the Royal Marines. It was the first war in which the Marines were used as a fully integrated part of the British Army. The Marines proved their worth in combat, and they emerged from the war with an enhanced reputation.

The Boer War

The Royal Marines fought in the Boer War (1899-1902). They participated in several amphibious landings, including the capture of Ladysmith. The Marines also played a key role in the defense of Mafeking against the Boer siege.

The Boer War was a challenging conflict for the Royal Marines. They faced a determined enemy in the Boers, and they often had to fight in difficult conditions. However, the Marines once again proved their worth, and they emerged from the war with their reputation intact.

The First World War

The Royal Marines played a major role in the First World War (1914-1918). They fought in numerous amphibious operations, including the landing at Gallipoli in 1915 and the Battle of the Somme in 1916. The Marines also played a key role in the defense of the Western Front.

The First World War was a bloody conflict for the Royal Marines. They suffered heavy casualties, but they never wavered in their duty. They fought with bravery and determination, and they played a vital role in the Allied victory.

The Second World War

The Royal Marines played a major role in the Second World War (1939-1945). They participated in numerous amphibious operations, including the Normandy landings in 1944 and the Battle of Okinawa in 1945. The Marines also played a key role in the defense of Malta and Crete.

The Second World War was the Royal Marines' finest hour. They fought with exceptional bravery and determination, and they played a vital role in the Allied victory. The Marines earned a reputation for being one of the world's finest fighting forces, and they emerged from the war with their reputation enhanced.

The Korean War

The Royal Marines also fought in the Korean War (1950-1953). They participated in several amphibious operations, including the landing at Inchon in 1950. The Marines also played a key role in the defense of the Pusan Perimeter.

The Korean War was a challenging conflict for the Royal Marines. They faced

The First to Land (The Royal Marines Saga Book 2)

by Douglas Reeman

4.4 out of 5