The term may have been derived from the Ottoman Turkish phrase "vur ha" translated as "strike" or the Mongolian word "urakh" meaning "rip off". It was used as a battle cry of the Ottoman Empire army and adapted as a Russian battle cry "ura".

Why do Marines say oorah?

Oorah is a battle cry common in the United States Marine Corps since the mid-20th century. It is comparable to hooah in the US Army and hooyah in the US Navy and US Coast Guard. It is most commonly used to respond to a verbal greeting or as an expression of enthusiasm. (Source: Wikipedia.)

What is the origin of oorah?

Marines and historians have determined the true origins of "Oorah" lie with recon Marines stationed in Korea in 1953. ... Over time, the word "Aarugha" came to be too much of a mouthful, and eventually molded itself into the familiar "Oorah," according to Maj. Gary Marte, a retired Marine.