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Modern U.S. Marines
The role of the United States Marines has changed immeasurably
since it began. Never before have Marines faced challenges like
today. The scope, frequency and speed today's missions must be
executed are unlike anything that has been done in the past. |
USS Wasp, a multi-mission amphibious assault ship |
On any given day 173,000 Marines are
deployed away from their home bases. Since the end of the Persian
Gulf Crisis (in 1991) through 1998, the Marines were
"sent-in" over fifty times.
On average, the Marine Corps is called
upon once every five weeks.
Four separate Marine Expeditionary Units
(Special Operations Capable) deploy for six months, each having
an average strength of 2,200 Marines and Sailors. Consisting
of three to five amphibious assault ships, they move freely
across the high seas without clearances or other diplomatic
restraints. They represent the United States most flexible
means of exerting force abroad. |
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The flight deck of an amphibious assault
ship can accommodate a variety of helicopters, as well as the
AV-8B "Harrier" and the MV-22
"Osprey". Its "wet well" deck can
launch air-cushioned landing craft (LCAC's) and assault
amphibian vehicles.
LCAC's can deliver Marines and their
equipment at sprint speeds of 50 knots. These machines can
traverse 70 percent of the world's coastline. |
Landing Craft, Air Cushioned (LCAC) |
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For a quarter of a century, Marines have
maintained their own aviation equipment. Shown here in
tight formation is a flight of
Marine AV-8B "Harriers", the world's premiere
vertical/short takeoff and landing aircraft. |
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| Marines do not have the luxury of choosing
where to fight. From tropical jungles, blistering deserts
or arctic cold, the Marine Corps trains to fight in all
climates. |
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Marine Expeditionary
Units are completely self sufficient. Shown here is the
24th MEU deploying combat ready scout-swimmers. All deployable Marine units are trained
for combat in the surf-line. |
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| As more and more fighting and unrest in
cities and built-up areas arise, Marines must have the option to
use deadly and non-lethal weapons. Here Marines train in
"Urban Warrior" exercises. |
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With the end of the Cold War, many smaller
nations and entities (terrorist organizations) have been
released from their political and military restraints.
Marines are responsible for providing the security of U.S.
diplomats and other overseas installations.
Equipped for hostage rescue, these Marines head to Charleston airport
on one hour's notice for a
drill with the FBI. |
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