10/23/2026
WE REMEMBER — BEIRUT, LEBANON
October 23, 1983 – October 23, 2026
43 years ago today, at 6:22 a.m., a terrorist truck bomb struck the U.S. Marine barracks in Beirut, Lebanon, killing **241 American service members — 220 Marines, 18 Navy Sailors, and 3 Army Soldiers.
These brave Americans were serving as part of a multinational peacekeeping force when their lives were tragically cut short. A second bombing that morning claimed the lives of 58 French paratroopers.
"They Came in Peace."
Those words, inscribed at the Beirut Memorial, remind us of their mission, their sacrifice, and the families and brothers-in-arms they left behind.
Today, the members of American Legion Earl Gladfelter Post 268, Milan, Michigan, pause to honor the fallen, remember the survivors, and stand with the Gold Star families who continue to carry their loss.
May we never forget the 241 Americans who gave their lives in service to our nation.
Semper Fidelis. We Will Never Forget.
