Unsung Heroes: Knives in World War II US Marine Corps
The role of knives in World War II-era United States Marine Corps has been overlooked compared to iconic small arms. Let's delve into the history of these essential tools for survival and combat.
The journey began with the M1918 Mark I 'Trench Knife', the standard American combat knife at the Armistice in 1918. Around 139,000 of these knives remained and were reissued to Army paratroopers, Rangers, and some Marine Corps units during World War II.
In 1941, the Western Parachutist's Knife (No. 53C/W-31) was selected for parachute training. The following year, the Camillus No. 5665 'Hunting Knife' became the first knife purchased for issuance to the 1st Raider Battalion. The U.S. Marine Raider Stiletto was the first knife officially designed and adopted as a combat weapon in 1942.
Popular commercial knives acquired by the Marine Corps included the Western L-77 Stiletto and Western G46-6 'Shark Knife'. However, it's important to note that there's no evidence supporting the use of the 'L-77 Stiletto' by American Marines in World War II. Well-documented official USMC knives from this period include the KA-BAR and the V-42 Stiletto.
The Marine Raider 'Gung Ho' Knife (Collins No. 18), a small machete, was issued to the 2nd Raider Battalion and became a symbol of status within that unit. A May 1942 Marine Corps memo recommended sheath knives as valuable weapons and general utility tools for various operations.
Knives played a crucial role in the survival and combat of World War II-era U.S. Marine Corps. Despite being overshadowed by small arms, these tools have a rich history and significance. The M1918 Mark I 'Trench Knife', the U.S. Marine Raider Stiletto, and the Marine Raider 'Gung Ho' Knife are among the notable examples that served the Marines during this period.
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