Forgotten Legends Series: Lt. Col. A.J. Drexel Biddle

 

Lt. Col. A.J Drexel Biddle was a prominent figure in the United States Marine Corps, known for his contributions as a trainer and author. He was born in 1874 and died in 1961.

Biddle began his Marine Corps career in 1898, serving in the Spanish-American War and the Philippine-American War. He quickly rose through the ranks, and by World War I, he was a captain and the commander of the Marine detachment on the USS Texas. After the war, he served as the officer in charge of the Marine Barracks at the Philadelphia Navy Yard and the executive officer of the Marine Barracks at Quantico.

In 1926, Biddle was promoted to lieutenant colonel and appointed as the commander of the Marine Detachment at the American Legation in Beijing, China. During this time, he began to develop his reputation as a trainer, teaching martial arts and bayonet fighting to the Marines under his command.

After his tour in China, Biddle returned to the United States and served as the officer in charge of the Recruit Depot in San Diego and as the director of the Marine Corps Schools in Quantico. He also served as the Marine Corps Association president and a Marine Corps Examining Board member.

Biddle is perhaps best known for his book "Do or Die," which was published in 1931. The book is a manual for hand-to-hand combat, and it quickly became a classic among Marines. It covers various techniques for bayonet fighting, knife fighting, and wrestling, as well as strategies for survival in combat. The book is still used by the Marine Corps today and is considered a must-read for any Marine.

In addition to his military career, Biddle was also a prolific writer, contributing articles and essays to various publications on various topics. He was also an expert on hand-to-hand combat and bayonet fighting, and he taught these skills to many Marines throughout his career.

In conclusion, Lt. Col. A.J Drexel Biddle was a highly respected member of the United States Marine Corps, known for his contributions as a trainer and author. His book "Do or Die" is still considered a classic among Marines and is widely read and studied today. His legacy continues to be honoured by the Marine Corps.