MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan -- Standing tall among history's greatest warriors are lancers - cavalrymen armed only with lances, pistols and bravery.
Polish lancers, employed in the service of Napoleon Bonaparte, were some of the most feared cavalry in the emperor's armies.
British, Irish and Australian lancers were also known as fierce and intelligent warriors throughout Europe, North America, Africa and Australia.
Today, Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 212 carries the name "Lancers" as a tribute to the squadron's fighting spirit.
The squadron is also unique because it is the only Marine fighter squadron permanently forward deployed, said Capt. Michael Major, VMFA-212 historian.
"Our overall mission here in Japan is to provide a defensive presence to counter any offensive threats in the Western Pacific towards the United States and our allies," said Major.
Countering threats is something the squadron has been doing for many years, states the squadron Web site (www.iwakuni.usmc.mil/units/212/212.htm).
Since its establishment March 1, 1942, the squadron has participated in every major conflict since World War II - with the exception of Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003, noted Major.
During World War II, the squadron deployed to the South Pacific and "took part in campaigns in the New Hebrides, New Caledonia, Guadalcanal, as well as operations off of Midway, Esprit Santo, Treasure Island, Russell Islands, Bougainville, Raboul and the Philippines," according to the Web site.
Later on, the squadron also fought in the Korean War, the Vietnam War and Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm.
Today, the squadron is permanently stationed here.
However, this location doesn't mean any less involvement, said Major.
"On a daily basis our Marines make us incredibly proud to be Lancers," noted Major. "We detach from Iwakuni up to four or five times a year, which means that the Lancers are not only away from their family and friends in the states, but are also often away from their homes here in Iwakuni."
The squadron is good at meeting challenges, said Major.
"Our squadron meets daily challenges by way of professional and constant training, teamwork, mentoring and quality leadership," Major stated. "On a daily basis, we try to improve our productivity and performance from the day prior in the most positive way possible."
Major credits the squadron's success to its Marines.
"Our maintainers have shown incredible flexibility to be able to pick up and move shop anywhere in West Pac and be as proficient as if they were here in Iwakuni," said Major. "Our pilots are totally devoted to training throughout West Pac in preparation for a counterattack against any hostile threat anywhere."
The squadron's readiness is aided by newer gear, stated Major.
"We recently received newer, higher performing F/A-18C Hornets with many improved systems which will make our squadron's defense capability the best it has ever been," said Major. "Additionally, we have received a new simulator which will allow for better flight preparation and more productive training in the air and on the ground."
The squadron settled permanently at Iwakuni in the spring of 1997.