Inside the Solway Showgrounds, near the Classic Equestrian store.

Monument

A gray obelisk monument honoring the 3rd Defense Battalion of the United States Marine Corps, who were stationed in the area from February to September 1943. The monument features the USMC motto and emblem, along with their participation in the Pacific War. Designed and commissioned by Mark Pacey, the monument was unveiled on November 13, 2024. During World War II, the Third Defense Battalions of the U.S. Marine Corps were stationed in Masterton for rest and recovery after intense Pacific battles.

Source of information: times-age.co.nz

Source of photos: Mark Pacey

SEMPER FIDELIS

( ALWAYS FAITHFUL )

Third row of the monument frontal text:

IN HONOUR OF THE MEN OF THE

THIRD DEFENSE BATTALION

UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS

WHO WERE CAMPED HERE BETWEEN

FEBRUARY AND NOVEMBER 1943

GUADALCANAL

Right base text:

PEARL HARBOR

At the back text:

Designed &

Commisioned

By Mark Pacey.

Unveiled 2024

MASTERTON

Left base text:

MIDWAY