2                                      U.S. MARINES IN THE PERSIAN GULF, 1990-1991


                                                    Depsnm~nt of Dcfcnse Photo (uSMC)
        MajGen William M. Keys, Commanding General, 2d Manne Division.

in particular, had been for divisions to provide trained and equipped units for
deploying MEBs and MEUs. While doctrine had envisaged that a MEF might
deploy with two divisions, this had only occurred in the Vietnam War and in
wargaming. The 2d Marine Division had to study the manner in which it would
be committed to combat as a division for the first time since World War II.
     Fortunately, the division had a commanding general who was especially
qualified by temperament and knowledge to lead it in directions which just a few
weeks previously could not have been imagined. Major General William M.
Keys assumed command of the division in September           1989.  A quiet and


     Major General Keys was commissioned a second lieutenant in the Marine Corps upon
graduation from the U.S. Naval Aeademy in June 1960. He served his first tour in Vietnam as
a company commander in the 1st Battalion, 9th Mannes. On-his second tour in Vietnam, he was
an infantry advisor to the 4th Battalion, Vietnamese Marine Corps, and subsequently the senior
advisor to Brigade 147. Among his other assignments, he has been the commanding officer of the
3d Battalion, 5th Marines, and the commanding offleer of the 6th Marines. Upon his promotion
to brigadier general he was assigned as the Assistant Division Commander of the 2d Marine
Division. He was advanced to the grade of major general on 14 March 1989 and assumed
command of the 2d Marine Division on 27 September of that year. His personal decorations
inelude the Navy Cross, the Silver Star, the Legion of Merit with "V," the Bronze Star with "V
and the Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm and silver star, Armed Forces Honor
Medal (First Class), and Staff Service Honor Medal (First Class).