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United States Marine Corps
Emblem of the United States Marine Corps.svg
Emblem of the United States Marine Corps
Founded 11 July 1798
(226 years, 10 months)
(in current form)

10 November 1775
(249 years, 6 months)
(as the Continental Marines;
disbanded in 1783)


Type Maritime land force
Role
Size
  • 168,527 active personnel
    (as of December 2024)
  • 32,967 reserve personnel
    (as of December 2024)
  • 1,317 manned aircraft
Part of United States Armed Forces
Department of the Navy
Headquarters The Pentagon
Arlington County, Virginia, U.S.
Nickname(s) "Jarheads",
"Devil Dogs" ("Teufel Hunden"), "Leathernecks"
Motto(s) Semper fidelis ("Always faithful")
Colors          Scarlet and gold
March "Semper Fidelis"
Mascot(s) English bulldog
Anniversaries 10 November
Equipment List of USMC equipment
Engagements
Decorations Streamer PUC Navy.PNG
Streamer PUC Army.PNG
Presidential Unit Citation

Streamer JMUA.PNG
Joint Meritorious Unit Award Navy Unit Commendation streamer.svg
Navy Unit Commendation Streamer VUA Army.PNG
Valorous Unit Award Meritorious Unit Commendation (Navy-Marine) Streamer.jpg
Streamer MUC Army.PNG
Meritorious Unit Commendation Streamer FCDG.PNG
French Croix de guerre 1914–1918 Presidential Unit Citation (Philippines) Streamer.png
Philippine Presidential Unit Citation Streamer KPUC.PNG
Korean Presidential Unit Citation VGCP Streamer.jpg
Vietnam Gallantry Cross

Streamer RVMUCCA.PNG
Vietnam Civil Actions Medal
Commanders
Commander-in-Chief President Donald Trump
Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth
Secretary of the Navy John Phelan
Commandant Gen Eric M. Smith
Assistant Commandant Gen Christopher J. Mahoney
Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps USMC-E9-SGMMC.svg SMMC Carlos A. Ruiz
Insignia
Flag Flag of the United States Marine Corps.svg
Seal USMC logo.svg
Emblem ("Eagle, Globe, and Anchor" or "EGA") Eagle, Globe, and Anchor.svg
Wordmark Marines banner.png
Song "The Marine's Hymn"

The United States Marine Corps (USMC), often called the U.S. Marines or simply the Marines, is a special part of the United States Armed Forces. It's a branch of the United States Department of Defense that focuses on fighting on land, especially after traveling by sea. The Marines are known for their ability to quickly deploy and conduct amphibious operations (landings from the sea) and expeditionary operations (missions far from home). They have their own infantry, artillery, air support, and special operations teams.

The U.S. Marine Corps is one of the six main branches of the U.S. military. It has been part of the United States Department of the Navy since 1834, working closely with the United States Navy. Marines operate from bases on land and from special ships called amphibious warfare ships all over the world. Some Marine aviation squadrons even operate from Navy aircraft carriers.

The history of the Marine Corps began on 10 November 1775, in Philadelphia. Two battalions of Continental Marines were formed to fight both at sea and on land during the American Revolutionary War. After the war, they were disbanded but later brought back. In World War II, especially in the Pacific War, the Marines led many island-hopping campaigns. As of December 2024, there are about 169,000 active-duty Marines and around 33,000 in the reserve.

What Do the Marines Do?

The U.S. Marine Corps has several important jobs, as outlined in U.S. law:

  • To capture or defend naval bases and perform other land operations that help Navy missions.
  • To develop new ways of fighting, techniques, and equipment for amphibious landings, working with the Army and Air Force.
  • To carry out any other duties that the President or the Department of Defense might assign.

This last point is very important because Marines often do missions that aren't strictly naval. For example, they've been involved in conflicts like the First Barbary War, the War of 1812, and many counterinsurgency (fighting against rebels) missions. These missions show that the Marines are an expeditionary force, using the Navy's ability to travel by sea to quickly respond to international situations and protect American interests.

The Marine Band, also known as "The President's Own," plays music for official events at the White House. Marines also guard presidential retreats like Camp David. The Executive Flight Detachment of HMX-1 provides helicopter transport for the President and Vice President, using the call signs "Marine One" and "Marine Two." Since 1947, Marine Security Guards have protected American embassies and consulates in over 140 locations worldwide.

How the Marine Mission Evolved

When the Marine Corps was first created, its main job was to serve as infantry on naval ships. They were responsible for ship security, fighting during boarding actions, and protecting officers from mutiny. They also conducted raids at sea and on shore. The first American amphibious assault happened on 3 March 1776, during the Revolutionary War, when Marines captured British forts in the Bahamas.

Over time, as naval warfare changed, the Marines' role expanded. They started focusing more on land missions. In the early 20th century, the "Advanced Base Doctrine" formalized their role in capturing bases and other land duties to support naval campaigns.

Even though their original shipboard security mission ended in the 1990s, Marines continued to serve on battleships and aircraft carriers for many years. They were crucial in developing the tactics for amphibious assaults used in World War II.

In 1950, President Harry S. Truman famously called the Marine Corps "the Navy's police force." This caused a lot of upset among Marines and in Congress. Truman later apologized for his words, but he still believed the Marines should report to the Navy. Despite this, the Marines have always maintained their unique identity and capabilities.

What Makes the Marines Special?

The Marine Corps is unique because it can quickly deploy a complete fighting force, called a Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF), anywhere in the world. A MAGTF combines a ground combat element (infantry, tanks, artillery), an aviation combat element (helicopters, jets), and a logistics combat element (supplies, transport) under one command. This structure allows them to operate independently and use all their different forces together effectively.

Marine-31st
U.S. Marines from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit training

The Marines' culture is centered around the infantry. Every Marine, no matter their job, is trained as a rifleman. This means they all learn basic combat skills. For example, during World War II at the Battle of Wake Island, when all the Marine aircraft were destroyed, the pilots continued fighting as ground officers, leading other Marines in defense. This focus on "Every Marine a rifleman" means that all Marines are ready to fight if needed.

The Marines are also known for their "commander's intent" doctrine. This means that commanders tell their Marines the goal of a mission but give them flexibility in how they achieve it. This encourages initiative and quick thinking.

The amphibious assault techniques developed for World War II have evolved into the "Operational Maneuver from the Sea" doctrine. This doctrine focuses on projecting power from the sea, using air assault (helicopters) and maneuver warfare (quick, flexible movements). The Marines were among the first in the U.S. military to widely adopt these principles.

USS Tarawa operations
Marines from the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit depart USS Tarawa (LHA-1), using both a Landing Craft Utility and CH-53E "Super Stallion" helicopters, during amphibious operations in Kuwait, 2003.

To deploy quickly, the Marine Corps relies on the Navy for sealift (transport by sea). They also use the Maritime Pre-Positioning System, which involves fleets of ships positioned around the world with enough equipment and supplies for a Marine force to operate for 30 days.

A Brief History of the Marines

Early Days: Foundation and Revolutionary War

Portrait of First Leader of Marines, Maj. Samuel Nicholas
Maj. Samuel Nicholas, first Commandant of the Marine Corps, was nominated to lead the Continental Marines by John Adams in November 1775.

The U.S. Marine Corps was founded on 10 November 1775, by a resolution of the Second Continental Congress. This date is celebrated as the Marine Corps' birthday. Captain Samuel Nicholas was chosen to lead the first two battalions of Marines.

In January 1776, Marines went to sea and conducted their first amphibious landing in the Bahamas. They also fought on land during the American Revolutionary War, including at the Battle of Princeton in 1777, where General George Washington personally rallied them.

After the Revolutionary War, the Continental Marines were disbanded in 1783. However, they were brought back on 11 July 1798, to prepare for the Quasi-War with France. One of their most famous early actions was during the First Barbary War (1801–1805) against pirates, where they marched to Derna. This event is remembered in the Marines' Hymn.

War of 1812 and Beyond

Wiki Capture Penguin
British and U.S. troops garrisoned aboard Hornet and Penguin exchanging small arms musket fire with Tristan da Cuna in the background during the final engagement between British and U.S. forces in the War of 1812

During the War of 1812, Marine detachments on Navy ships fought in important naval battles. They also played a key role in holding the line at the Battle of New Orleans in 1815. Marines gained a reputation as excellent marksmen.

After the war, the Marine Corps faced challenges, but under Commandant Archibald Henderson, it took on more expeditionary duties around the world. Henderson is credited with keeping the Marine Corps separate from the Army. In 1834, Congress passed a law confirming that the Corps was part of the Department of the Navy.

Chapultepec
Marines storming Chapultepec Castle with a large American flag during the Mexican-American War

During the Mexican–American War (1846–1848), Marines famously assaulted Chapultepec Palace in Mexico City, an event celebrated in the Marines' Hymn as the "Halls of Montezuma."

Civil War to World War I

Marines01
Five USMC privates with fixed bayonets, and their NCO with his sword at the Washington Navy Yard, 1864

The Marine Corps played a smaller role in the American Civil War (1861–1865), mainly performing blockade duty. After the war, the Corps was involved in over 28 interventions overseas to protect American interests. During this time, Marine customs and traditions developed, including the adoption of the Marine Corps emblem in 1868 and the motto "Semper fidelis" (Always Faithful) around 1883.

During the Spanish–American War (1898), Marines led landings in the Philippines, Cuba, and Puerto Rico. Between 1899 and 1916, they continued to participate in foreign expeditions, including the Boxer Rebellion in China and the Banana Wars in Central America.

World War I

Scott Belleau Wood
Georges Scott, American Marines in Belleau Wood, 1918

When America entered World War I in 1917, the Marine Corps expanded significantly. During the Battle of Belleau Wood in 1918, Marine Corps legend says that German soldiers nicknamed the Marines Teufel Hunden, meaning "Devil Dogs," because of their fierce fighting. This nickname has stuck with the Marines ever since.

Between the World Wars, under Commandant John A. Lejeune, the Corps developed amphibious techniques that would be crucial in World War II.

World War II

Peter Ortiz
Former French Foreign Legion Lieutenant, and U.S. Marine Corps officer Peter J. Ortiz, who served in the European theater, often behind enemy lines

In World War II, the Marines played a central role in the Pacific War. They fought in intense battles like Guadalcanal, Tarawa, Saipan, Peleliu, Iwo Jima, and Okinawa. These battles involved fierce fighting against the Imperial Japanese Army. The Battle of Iwo Jima is one of the most famous Marine engagements, where American forces eventually raised the flag on Mount Suribachi.

About 600,000 Americans served in the Marine Corps during World War II. Nearly 87,000 Marines were casualties, with almost 20,000 killed. Many were awarded the Medal of Honor.

2018-10-31 15 25 21 The west side of the Marine Corps War Memorial in Arlington County, Virginia
Photograph of the Marine Corps War Memorial, which depicts the second U.S. flag-raising atop Mount Suribachi, on Iwo Jima. The memorial is modeled on Joe Rosenthal's famous Raising the Flag on Iwo Jima.

After the war, the Marine Corps faced challenges to its existence from some who wanted to combine its functions with the Army and Navy. However, with strong support from Congress and others, the Marine Corps was protected by the National Security Act of 1947, ensuring its future.

Korean War

Koreacloseairsupport1950
F4U Corsairs providing close air support to marines of the 1st Marine Division fighting Chinese forces in North Korea, December 1950

The Korean War (1950–1953) saw Marines quickly deploy to hold the line at the Pusan Perimeter. General Douglas MacArthur then ordered an amphibious landing at Inchon, led by U.S. Marines, which was very successful. Later, the 1st Marine Division fought bravely during a difficult withdrawal from the Battle of Chosin Reservoir.

During the war, the Corps grew significantly, and 30,544 Marines were killed or wounded.

Vietnam War

U.S. Marines in Operation Allen Brook (Vietnam War) 001
U.S. marines of "G" Company, 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines in action during Operation Allen Brook in South Vietnam, 1968

The Marine Corps served in the Vietnam War, participating in major battles like the Battle of Hue and the Battle of Khe Sanh in 1968. Marines often fought in the northern regions of South Vietnam, engaging in both guerrilla warfare and conventional battles against the North Vietnamese Army. By the end of the war, 13,091 Marines had been killed in action.

Modern Conflicts: War on Terror and Beyond

Beirut Memorial 1
Beirut Memorial at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune

After the Vietnam War, Marines continued their expeditionary role in various operations, including the 1980 Iran hostage rescue attempt and operations in Grenada and Panama. In 1983, a bombing of the Marine barracks in Beirut resulted in significant losses.

During the Gulf War (1990–1991), Marine task forces helped liberate Kuwait. Marines also participated in humanitarian relief operations in Somalia (1992–1995).

Marines in Saddams palace DM-SD-04-12222
U.S. marines from 1st Battalion, 7th Marines entering Saddam's Palace in Baghdad, 2003

Following the attacks on 11 September 2001, the Marine Corps became deeply involved in the Global War on Terrorism.

Afghanistan Campaign

1st platoon, Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment, 24th MEU, Djibouti, 2010
U.S. marines dismounting from an Assault Amphibious Vehicle in Djibouti

Marines were among the first conventional forces to enter Afghanistan in November 2001 for Operation Enduring Freedom. They rotated through the country, fighting Taliban and Al-Qaeda forces. In 2010, the 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade launched the Battle of Marjah, one of the largest offensives of the Afghan Campaign.

Iraq Campaign

U.S. Marines also served in the Iraq War. The I Marine Expeditionary Force led the 2003 invasion of Iraq. Marines were responsible for the Al Anbar Province and fought intense battles in cities like Fallujah in 2004. The Marine Corps officially ended its main role in Iraq in 2010 but returned in 2014 to respond to growing violence.

Operations in Africa

Marines have also supported operations in Africa to counter extremism and piracy, establishing Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa in Djibouti in 2002.

Focus on China Threat

In the 2020s, the U.S. national strategy shifted to focus on competition with China. The Marine Corps has adapted by strengthening its presence and firepower in the Indo-Pacific region, preparing for possible island operations. This includes joint deployments with the Australian military in Darwin.

How the Marines Are Organized

Organization of U.S. Space Force
Organization of the United States Marine Corps within the Department of Defense

The Marine Corps is part of the United States Department of the Navy, which is led by the Secretary of the Navy. The highest-ranking Marine officer is the Commandant, who is responsible for organizing, recruiting, training, and equipping the Marine Corps.

The Marine Corps is divided into four main parts:

  • Headquarters Marine Corps (HQMC)
  • The Operating Forces
  • The Supporting Establishment
  • The Marine Forces Reserve (MARFORRES or USMCR)

Headquarters Marine Corps

HQMC includes the Commandant, the Assistant Commandant, the Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, and other staff who help lead the Corps. It also oversees Marine Corps Aviation and Marine Corps Intelligence.

Operating Forces

The Operating Forces are the combat units of the Marine Corps. They are assigned to different regional commands around the world. The main combat forces are the Fleet Marine Forces, which include the I Marine Expeditionary Force, II Marine Expeditionary Force, and III Marine Expeditionary Force.

Marine Air-Ground Task Force

The basic unit for deploying Marines is the Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF). This is a flexible structure that combines different types of units:

  • A ground combat element (GCE) for fighting on land.
  • An aviation combat element (ACE) for air support.
  • A logistics combat element (LCE) for supplies and support.
  • All led by a common command element (CE).

This MAGTF structure allows Marine units to operate independently or as part of a larger force, making them very self-sufficient and effective in combined-arms warfare.

Supporting Establishment

2d Marine Division Band - Les Invalides 2022 (7244164)
A member of the United States Marine Band playing at Les Invalides in Paris
United States Marines Band at the New York Auto Show 2025
United States Marines Band at the New York Auto Show

The Supporting Establishment provides training, logistics, and other support for the operating forces. This includes the Marine Corps Combat Development Command (which develops new tactics), the Marine Corps Logistics Command (for supplies), and the United States Marine Corps Training and Education Command (for training, including recruiting). It also includes the famous Marine Band and the Marine Drum and Bugle Corps.

Marine Corps Bases

The Marine Corps has many major bases. The main ones are Camp Pendleton in California (West Coast), Camp Lejeune in North Carolina (East Coast), and Camp Butler in Okinawa, Japan. These bases are home to the Marine Expeditionary Forces.

Other important bases include air stations, recruit depots, and training commands. Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms in California is the largest Marine Corps base and is used for complex live-fire training. Marine Corps Base Quantico in Virginia is known as the "Crossroads of the Marine Corps" because it's where much of the Corps' development and training happens.

Marine Forces Reserve

The Marine Forces Reserve (MARFORRES/USMCR) is made up of reserve units that can form a 4th Marine Expeditionary Force or support active-duty forces when needed.

Special Operations

MARSOC are shooting with M4 at Washoe Coutny Reginal Shooting Facility
Marine Raiders conducting CQB training

The Marine Forces Special Operations Command (MARSOC) includes the Marine Raider Regiment, the Marine Raider Support Group, and the Marine Raider Training Center. These units are part of the United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM).

The idea of a Marine special operations force was discussed for a long time. Initially, the Marine Corps resisted, believing Marines should only support other Marines. However, after seeing other special operations units in action during Operation Enduring Freedom, the Corps agreed in 2006 to create MARSOC.

Separate from MARSOC, some Marine expeditionary units (MEU) are certified as "special operations capable" (MEU(SOC)).

Marines: People and Ranks

Leadership

color photograph of Eric M. Smith
Eric M. Smith,
Commandant of the Marine Corps
color photograph of Christopher J. Mahoney
Christopher J. Mahoney,
Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps
color photograph of Carlos A. Ruiz
Carlos A. Ruiz,
Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps

The Commandant is the highest-ranking officer in the Marine Corps. The Commandant is responsible for staffing, training, and equipping the Marine Corps and reports to the Secretary of the Navy. The current Commandant is Eric M. Smith.

The Assistant Commandant is the chief deputy to the Commandant. The Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps is the senior enlisted Marine and advises the Commandant. The current Sergeant Major is Carlos A. Ruiz.

Women in the Marines

Opha Johnson and Katherine Towle in 1946
Sergeant Opha Johnson (far right) in 1946, with Colonel Katherine Towle (far left). They are looking at Opha Johnson's uniform being worn by PFC Muriel Albert.
First three female Marines graduate Infantry training course 131121-M-JR212-076
Two of the first female graduates of the School of Infantry-East's Infantry Training Battalion course, 2013

Women have served in the Marine Corps since 1918. The first woman to enlist was Opha May Johnson. In 2017, women began joining infantry battalions. As of October 2019, female Marines make up 7.8% of the personnel. In 2021, the Marine Corps began integrating female recruits into training companies at the recruit depot in San Diego, which was previously male-only.

Racial Integration

Howard P. Perry, the first African-American US Marine Corps recruitf
Howard P. Perry, the first black recruit in the U.S. Marine Corps, 1942.

From 1798 to 1942, the Marine Corps did not allow African Americans to serve. It was a presidential order that led to the Corps beginning to recruit African American Marines in 1942, though they were initially in segregated units. For example, black recruits were trained at Montford Point from 1942 to 1949. In 1974, Montford Point was renamed Camp Gilbert H. Johnson to honor Sgt. Maj. Gilbert “Hashmark” Johnson, one of the first black Marines. Today, the Marine Corps is a fully integrated force.

Ranks in the Marine Corps

Marine Corps ranks are divided into three categories: commissioned officer, warrant officer, and enlisted.

Commissioned Officers

Commissioned officers hold a formal written authority from the President. They are promoted based on an "up or out" system, meaning they must be promoted within a certain time or leave the service.

US DoD
pay grade
O-10 O-9 O-8 O-7 O-6 O-5 O-4 O-3 O-2 O-1
NATO code OF-9 OF-8 OF-7 OF-6 OF-5 OF-4 OF-3 OF-2 OF-1
Insignia US-O10 insignia.svg US-O9 insignia.svg US-O8 insignia.svg US-O7 insignia.svg US-O6 insignia.svg US-O5 insignia.svg US-O4 insignia.svg U.S. O-3 insignia (USN, USMC, USCG, NOAACOC, PHSCC).svg US-O2 insignia.svg US-O1 insignia.svg
Service uniform insignia US Marine 10 shoulderboard vertical.svg US Marine O9 shoulderboard vertical.svg US Marine O8 shoulderboard vertical.svg US Marine O7 shoulderboard vertical.svg US Marine O6 shoulderboard vertical.svg US Marine O5 shoulderboard vertical.svg US Marine O4 shoulderboard vertical.svg US Marine O3 shoulderboard vertical.svg US Marine O2 shoulderboard vertical.svg US Marine O1 shoulderboard vertical.svg
Blue dress uniform insignia US Marine O10 shoulderboard dress.svg US Marine O9 shoulderboard dress.svg US Marine O8 shoulderboard dress.svg US Marine O7 shoulderboard dress.svg US Marine O6 shoulderboard dress.svg US Marine O5 shoulderboard dress.svg US Marine O4 shoulderboard dress.svg US Marine O3 shoulderboard dress.svg US Marine O2 shoulderboard dress.svg US Marine O1 shoulderboard dress.svg
Title General Lieutenant general Major general Brigadier general Colonel Lieutenant colonel Major Captain First lieutenant Second lieutenant
Abbreviation Gen LtGen MajGen BGen Col LtCol Maj Capt 1stLt 2ndLt

Warrant Officers

Warrant officers are usually experts in a specific field who started as enlisted Marines. They provide leadership within their specialty.

US DoD pay grade Marine Gunner
Insignia
W-5 W-4 W-3 W-2 W-1
NATO code WO-5 WO-4 WO-3 WO-2 WO-1
Insignia USMC CWO Gunner (Dress).png USMC CWO5.svg USMC CWO4.svg USMC CWO3.svg USMC CWO2.svg USMC WO1.svg
Service Uniform Insignia US Marine W-5 shoulderboard.svg US Marine W-4 shoulderboard.svg US Marine W-3 shoulderboard.svg US Marine W-2 shoulderboard.svg US Marine W-1 shoulderboard.svg
Title Chief warrant officer 5 Chief warrant officer 4 Chief warrant officer 3 Chief warrant officer 2 Warrant officer 1
Abbreviation CWO5 CWO4 CWO3 CWO2 WO

Enlisted Marines

Enlisted Marines make up the majority of the Corps. Those in pay grades E-4 and E-5 are non-commissioned officers (NCOs), who supervise junior Marines. Marines E-6 and higher are staff non-commissioned officers (SNCOs), who supervise NCOs and advise commanders.

The highest enlisted rank is the Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, who is personally selected by the Commandant.

US DoD
pay grade
Special E-9 E-8 E-7 E-6 E-5 E-4 E-3 E-2 E-1
NATO code OR-9 OR-8 OR-7 OR-6 OR-5 OR-4 OR-3 OR-2 OR-1
Dress uniform insignia
USMC-E9-SEAC.svg
USMC-E9-SGMMC.svg
USMC-E9-SGM.svg
USMC-E9-MGyS.svg
USMC-E8-1SG.svg
USMC-E8-MSG.svg
USMC-E7.svg
USMC-E6.svg
USMC-E5.svg
USMC-E4.svg
USMC-E3.svg
USMC-E2.svg

No insignia


Service uniform insignia USMC-E9-SEAC (Service).svg USMC-E9-SGMMC (Service).svg USMC-E9-SGM (Service).svg USMC-E9-MGyS (Service).svg USMC-E8-1SG (Service).svg USMC-E8-MSG (Service).svg USMC-E7 (Service).svg USMC-E6 (Service).svg USMC-E5 (Service).svg USMC-E4 (Service).svg USMC-E3 (Service).svg USMC-E2 (Service).svg
Title Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chairman Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps Sergeant Major Master Gunnery Sergeant First Sergeant Master Sergeant Gunnery Sergeant Staff Sergeant Sergeant Corporal Lance Corporal Private First Class Private
Abbreviation SEAC SMMC SgtMaj MGySgt 1stSgt MSgt GySgt SSgt Sgt Cpl LCpl PFC Pvt

Initial Training

Marine recruits
Marine recruits at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego

Every year, thousands of new Marine officers are commissioned, and tens of thousands of recruits are trained. All new Marines are recruited by the Marine Corps Recruiting Command.

New officers are trained at Officer Candidates School or come from the United States Naval Academy. After commissioning, all Marine officers attend The Basic School at Marine Corps Base Quantico, where they learn infantry and combined-arms warfare.

Enlisted Marines attend recruit training, also known as boot camp, at either Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego or Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island. Marine boot camp is 13 weeks long. After boot camp, enlisted Marines go to the United States Marine Corps School of Infantry for further combat training before going to their specific job schools.

Marine Uniforms

USMC uniforms
An illustration of U.S. marines in various uniform setups. From left to right: A U.S. marine in a Marine Corps Combat Utility Uniform with full combat load c. 2003, a U.S. marine in a (full) blue dress uniform, a U.S. Marine officer in a service uniform, and a U.S. Marine general in an evening dress uniform.

The Marine Corps has very traditional and recognizable uniforms. The "Dress Blues" uniform dates back to the early 19th century. Marines have four main types of uniforms:

  • The dress uniform is the most formal, worn for ceremonies. The "Blue Dress" uniform, often seen in recruiting ads, is the most common.
  • The service uniform is a more formal daily work uniform, though it's often replaced by the utility uniform.
  • The utility uniform, currently the Marine Corps Combat Utility Uniform, is a camouflage uniform for field work or dirty jobs. It uses MARPAT pixelated camouflage. Marines consider this a working uniform and usually don't wear it off-base.
  • The physical training uniform for exercise.

Marine Culture and Traditions

Official Traditions

The Marine Corps has many traditions that build camaraderie and set it apart. Marines often use naval terminology because of their history with the Navy. Marines are not called "soldiers" or "sailors."

Flags, USMC
The Eagle, Globe and Anchor along with the U.S. flag, the Marine Corps flag and the Commandant's flag

The Marine Corps emblem is the Eagle, Globe, and Anchor, or "EGA," adopted in 1868. The official colors are scarlet and gold. The Marine motto is Semper Fidelis, which means Always Faithful in Latin, often shortened to Semper Fi. The Marines' Hymn is the oldest official song in the U.S. armed forces.

Marines wear two types of swords: the officers' Mameluke Sword and the Marine NCO sword. The Marine Corps Birthday is celebrated every year on 10 November with a cake-cutting ceremony.

Unofficial Traditions

Teufel Hunden US Marines recruiting poster
A recruiting poster making use of the "Teufel Hunden" [sic] nickname

Marines have several nicknames:

  • Devil Dog: This nickname comes from World War I, supposedly given by German soldiers at Belleau Wood.
  • Gyrene: A common term used among Marines.
  • Leatherneck: Refers to a leather collar that was part of the Marine uniform long ago.
  • Jarhead: A nickname with several debated origins.

Other unofficial traditions include:

  • Oorah: A common exclamation among Marines, similar to "hooah" in the Army.
  • Semper Fi: A common greeting among Marines, both serving and veterans.
  • Improvise, Adapt and Overcome: A popular mantra emphasizing flexibility.

Veteran Marines

The Corps encourages the idea that "Marine" is an earned title, and many believe "Once a Marine, always a Marine." They generally prefer not to be called "ex-Marines."

Martial Arts Program

Marine martial arts
Marines training in martial arts

In 2001, the Marine Corps started its own martial arts program called the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program (MCMAP). This program teaches Marines various techniques from different martial arts styles, including punches, kicks, grappling, and knife fighting. It helps Marines control hostile individuals, especially in peacekeeping missions. Marines earn different colored belts, starting with tan and progressing to black.

Marine Equipment

Infantry Weapons

FORECON CQB trng -001-
Marines firing MEU(SOC) pistols while garrisoned aboard a ship

The standard infantry rifle for the Marine Corps is the M27 IAR. Most non-infantry Marines use the M4 carbine. The standard side arm is the SIG Sauer M17/M18 pistol. Machine guns like the M249 SAW and M240 provide suppressive fire. In 2021, the Marine Corps decided to equip all infantry units with suppressors for their weapons.

Marines also use grenade launchers like the M320, and mortars for indirect fire. Heavy machine guns like the M2 .50 caliber and MK19 automatic grenade launcher are also used. For precision, they use sniper rifles like the M40 series and the Barrett M107.

For anti-armor capabilities, Marines use rockets like the Mk 153 SMAW and AT4, and anti-tank missiles like the FGM-148 Javelin and BGM-71 TOW.

Ground Vehicles

AAV-australia
Marine Amphibious Assault Vehicles emerge from the surf onto the sand of Freshwater Beach, Australia

The Marine Corps uses HMMWVs, which are being replaced by the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV). They also use the LAV-25, a wheeled armored vehicle for quick movement. For amphibious landings, they use the AAV-7A1 Assault Amphibious Vehicle, which is being replaced by the Amphibious Combat Vehicle. To protect against land mines, the Corps uses Mine Resistant Ambush Protected vehicles.

The Marines also operate the M777 155 mm howitzer and the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) for artillery support. In 2020, the Marine Corps removed all its M1A1 Abrams tanks, making the Army the only U.S. military branch to operate tanks.

Aircraft

Aircraft.osprey.678pix
Marine parachutists jumping from an MV-22 Osprey at 10,000 feet

Marine Corps Aviation is vital for its amphibious missions. They use both helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft to provide Assault Support and close air support to ground forces.

  • Light transport and attack: Bell UH-1Y Venom and Bell AH-1Z Viper.
  • Medium-lift: MV-22 Osprey tiltrotor (can take off and land like a helicopter, fly like a plane).
  • Heavy-lift: CH-53E Super Stallion (being replaced by the CH-53K).

Marine attack squadrons fly the AV-8B Harrier II (a V/STOL aircraft that can take off and land vertically or with a short runway). Fighter/attack missions are handled by the F/A-18 Hornet. Both are being replaced by the F-35 Lightning II (the B version for vertical landing and the C version for aircraft carriers).

US Navy 111003-N-ZZ999-002 An F-35B Lightning II makes the first vertical landing on a flight deck at sea aboard the amphibious assault ship USS W
A Marine Corps F-35B, the vertical-landing version of the F-35 Lightning II multirole fighter landing aboard USS Wasp

The Corps also has its own aerial refueling aircraft, the KC-130 Hercules, which also acts as a transport aircraft. They use unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) like the RQ-7 Shadow and Scan Eagle for reconnaissance.

Relationships with Other Military Branches

The Marine Corps works closely with other branches of the United States Armed Forces, especially the Navy, but also the Army and Air Force.

United States Navy

USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD-6) welldeck
Assault Amphibious Vehicles approaching the well deck of USS Bonhomme Richard

The Navy and Marine Corps have a very close relationship, often called the "Navy-Marine Corps Team." Both the Chief of Naval Operations and the Commandant of the Marine Corps report to the Secretary of the Navy.

Operationally, the Marine Corps provides forces for the Navy's fleets, including Marine Expeditionary Units on Navy amphibious warships. Marine aircraft squadrons also deploy on Navy aircraft carriers. The Marine Corps also provides security for high-risk Navy bases.

Many Marine officers come from the United States Naval Academy or Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps. Marine pilots are trained by the Navy. The Navy provides medical and religious personnel for the Marines, who often wear Marine uniforms with Navy insignia. This close cooperation is essential because the Navy provides transport and support to get Marine units into combat.

In 2007, the Marine Corps, Navy, and Coast Guard adopted a new strategy called A Cooperative Strategy for 21st Century Seapower, focusing on preventing conflicts and responding quickly to crises.

United States Army

CSA-2006-01-12-095303 M249SAW
A soldier from the 1st Infantry Regiment provides security for a joint Army-Marine patrol in Rawa in 2006. The shoulder sleeve insignia has the logo of the 2nd Marine Division.

The Marine Corps and Army have some overlapping capabilities, which has historically led to competition. After World War II, some Army leaders even suggested combining the Marine Corps into the Navy and Army. However, the Goldwater-Nichols Act helped improve coordination between all branches.

The Army has larger and more diverse forces, including lighter infantry and heavier armored units. The Marine Corps focuses on smaller, more integrated deployable units with their own aviation support. While the Army has long had dedicated Special Forces, the Marine Corps created its own special operations units, the Marine Raiders, in 2003.

Marines and soldiers share much of the common U.S. military slang, but the Corps has its own unique terms and traditions.

United States Air Force

C-5 CH-46
Marines unloading CH-46 Sea Knight helicopters from an Air Force C-5 Galaxy

The Marine Corps receives significant support from the United States Air Force. The Air Force provides airlift for Marines and equipment and can offer close air support. The Air Force often controls overall air operations, while the Marine Corps maintains control of its own aviation assets that directly support Marine ground forces.

United States Coast Guard

The Marine Corps also works with the United States Coast Guard, including at the Joint Maritime Training Center in North Carolina, which is a joint training facility for the Coast Guard, Navy, and Marine Corps.

Budget

The Marine Corps receives its funding from the Department of the Navy. In 2019, the Marine Corps received $43.2 billion in funding. In 2013, the USMC became the first American military branch to have its annual budget fully audited.

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Cuerpo de Marines de los Estados Unidos para niños

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United States Marine Corps Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.