ROLES IN THE CORPS

As one of the Few, there are hundreds of ways to serve, and every Marine trains in an area of expertise
that contributes to the success of our missions. The Marines of our ground, aviation and logistics combat
elements are ready to transition from mission to mission at a moment's notice.

AN EXPEDITIONARY FORCE
IN READINESS

It is our rapidly deployable, combined arms capability that enables Marines to thrive in any terrain and against any threat. Marines are trained in many different roles but accomplish each task together, prepared to launch a range of amphibious operations, crisis response missions and limited contingency operations on extremely short notice. It is the framework of our structure, the Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF), that brings together Marines from hundreds of different specialties to form a cohesive, powerful expeditionary unit. Here you'll find the many ways Marines support our missions. If you would like to find out more about the many ways you can become part of history as a United States Marine, schedule an appointment with a Marine Recruiter.

 
MAGTF

MAGTF

MAGTF refers to the unique four-part structure that organizes Marine Corps operating forces. This framework brings together Aviation, Ground and Logistics Combat elements under a central Command element. The result is a flexible, combined-arms unit with the capabilities to conduct the Marine Corps' full range of operations, from humanitarian aid and disaster relief to projection of power from the sea. 

Many Roles. One Mission.

The Marine Corps is only as capable as each and every Marine. That's why all Marines have a specific role for which they are optimally trained, in support of the overall mission.

MAKEUP OF A MEU

MAKEUP OF A MEU

A MEU, or Marine Expeditionary Unit, is the smallest type of MAGTF, often providing the most substantial response in the shortest amount of time. 2,200 Marines that are trained in hundreds of areas of expertise serve on a MEU. Here is the breakdown of a MEU's makeup:

Command Element – Approximately 200 Marines. Responsible for command and control of the entire MEU.

Ground Combat Element – Approximately 1,200 Marines. A Battalion Landing Team that includes three rifle companies, a weapons company, a battery of artillery and platoons of the following: combat engineers, light armored reconnaissance, tanks, Force Reconnaissance and amphibious assault vehicles.

Aviation Combat Element – Approximately 500 Marines. A MEU's ACE is built around a medium tilt-rotor squadron, reinforced by CH-53E heavy lift helicopters, light attack helicopters and Harrier attack jets. The result is a squadron of 25 to 30 aircraft.

Logistics Combat Element – Approximately 300 Marines. Provides supply, transportation, maintenance and additional support for the MEU.

READY AT SEA

READY AT SEA

MEUs deploy aboard an Amphibious Ready Group (ARG): Three naval ships specifically designed to provide the Marines with a mobile base of operations. See here what serving aboard a MEU entails.