Hold High the Torch, the first of a series of regimental and squadron histories by the Historical Branch, G-3 Division, Headquarters U.S. Marine Corps, is designed primarily to acquaint the members of the 4th Marines, past and present, with the history of their regiment. In addition, it is hoped this volume will enlarge public understanding of the Marine Corps’ worth both in limited war and as a force in readiness. During most of its existence the 4th Marines was not engaged in active military operations, but service of the regiment in China, the Dominican Republic, and off the west coast of Mexico, was typical of the Marine Corps’ support of national policy. In many of its combat operations, the 4th Marines was only one element of a much larger force. In other instances, as in the Dominican Republic and China, the regiment was a subordinate unit in situations which were essentially political and diplomatic. Only so much of these higher echelon activities as are essential to an understanding of the 4th Marines story have been told. This is a regimental history and the focus is therefore on the 4th Marines.

Automotive pioneer Charles Stewart Mott and his first wife, Ethel Culbert Harding Mott, purchased sixty-four acres at the edge of downtown Flint, Michigan, and laid the cornerstone in 1916 for the family home and gentleman's farm they called Applewood. This collection of stories of Applewood's first one hundred years reveals the private lives of a very public family, much told in their own words. The author weaves excerpts from decades of interviews, personal letters, and C. S. Mott's detailed diary, plus recollections from family, friends, and staff. More than 250 photos, both new and historical images from the Ruth Mott Foundation Archives, give an intimate look at an extraordinary family and the place they called home.