LOGISTICS
Logistics Marines are responsible for acquiring, storing and distributing equipment, moving personnel, as well as constructing, maintaining and operating facilities.
Initial Training
After recruit training, most Marines in logistics will attend the Logistics Operations School and the Marine Corps Combat Service Support Schools at Camp Lejeune, NC.
Within the MEU
Logistics Marines deploy as part of a Landing Support Platoon. They are responsible for receiving and tracking shipments of water, food, fuel, ammunition, equipment and supplies coming ashore.
Specialties in Logistics include:
- Embarkation Specialist: Assists with the preparation, planning and execution of strategic transportation operations.
- Airborne and Air Delivery Specialist: Maintains life safety equipment for Airborne/Airdrop operations.
- Landing Support Specialist: Establishes, maintains and controls transportation systems on shores, landing zones, ports and shipping terminals.
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
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
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.
