How did the nickname "Devil Dog" originate for Marines?

The nickname "Devil Dog" originated during the Marines' fierce fighting at the Battle of Belleau Wood in World War I. During this battle in 1918, Allied forces were engaged against German troops, and the Marines demonstrated extraordinary bravery and tenacity in combat. The German soldiers reportedly referred to the Marines as "Teufel Hunden," which translates to "Devil Dogs," indicating a combination of fear and respect for the Marines' aggressive fighting style. This term was embraced by the Marines, symbolizing their spirit and resilience in battle, solidifying the nickname in the Marine Corps tradition.

The other options do not accurately reflect the historical context of how the nickname came into being. While the Marine Corps has a storied history involving various conflicts, the specific association with "Devil Dog" is most directly linked to the events at Belleau Wood, making that choice the most relevant and correct response.