What is a Royal Marine?
The Royal Marines, also known as Her Majesty’s Royal Marines, are the amphibious light infantry of the Royal Navy. They are a specialized force trained to operate in a variety of environments, from the sea to the land, and are known for their bravery, skill, and adaptability. In this article, we will delve into the world of the Royal Marines, exploring their history, role, and responsibilities.
History of the Royal Marines
The Royal Marines were founded in 1664, when King Charles II granted a warrant to Colonel Sir William Jennings to raise a regiment of Marines to serve on board the Royal Navy’s ships. The regiment was initially called the "Duke of York and Albany’s Maritime Regiment of Foot" and was known for its bravery and skill in battle. Over the years, the Royal Marines have played a significant role in many conflicts, including the Napoleonic Wars, the Crimean War, and both World Wars.
Role of the Royal Marines
The Royal Marines are an elite force that serves as the Royal Navy’s primary amphibious warfare capability. Their role is to conduct a range of operations, including:
• Amphibious Assaults: The Royal Marines are trained to conduct amphibious assaults, where they are deployed from ships to the shore to seize and secure key objectives.
• Special Operations: The Royal Marines are also trained in special operations, including counter-terrorism, direct action, and unconventional warfare.
• Support to Naval Operations: The Royal Marines provide support to naval operations, including the protection of shipping lanes, the defense of naval bases, and the conduct of maritime security operations.
• Humanitarian Assistance: The Royal Marines are also trained to provide humanitarian assistance, including disaster relief and evacuation operations.
Training and Selection
To become a Royal Marine, you must undergo a rigorous selection process, which includes:
• Phase 1: The first phase of training is the Common Infantrymen’s Course, which lasts for 29 weeks and covers basic infantry skills, such as first aid, navigation, and combat tactics.
• Phase 2: The second phase of training is the Royal Marines Commando Course, which lasts for 12 weeks and covers advanced combat skills, such as rock climbing, obstacle courses, and parachute training.
• Phase 3: The third phase of training is the Special to Unit Course, which lasts for 12 weeks and covers specialized skills, such as marksmanship, demolitions, and communications.
Responsibilities
As a Royal Marine, you will be responsible for:
• Conducting Amphibious Operations: You will be trained to conduct amphibious assaults, including the deployment of troops from ships to the shore.
• Supporting Naval Operations: You will provide support to naval operations, including the protection of shipping lanes and the defense of naval bases.
• Participating in Special Operations: You will be trained to conduct special operations, including counter-terrorism and direct action.
• Providing Humanitarian Assistance: You will be trained to provide humanitarian assistance, including disaster relief and evacuation operations.
Equipment and Vehicles
The Royal Marines use a range of equipment and vehicles, including:
• FV103 Spartan: A tracked armored personnel carrier used for transporting troops.
• FV107 Scimitar: A wheeled armored reconnaissance vehicle used for reconnaissance and patrolling.
• FV102 Striker: A tracked armored vehicle used for carrying heavy machine guns.
• FV101 Scorpion: A tracked armored reconnaissance vehicle used for reconnaissance and patrolling.
Table: Royal Marines Equipment and Vehicles
| Equipment/Vehicle | Description |
|---|---|
| FV103 Spartan | Tracked armored personnel carrier |
| FV107 Scimitar | Wheeled armored reconnaissance vehicle |
| FV102 Striker | Tracked armored vehicle |
| FV101 Scorpion | Tracked armored reconnaissance vehicle |
Conclusion
The Royal Marines are an elite force that plays a vital role in the Royal Navy’s operations. They are trained to conduct a range of operations, including amphibious assaults, special operations, and humanitarian assistance. To become a Royal Marine, you must undergo a rigorous selection process, which includes training in basic infantry skills, advanced combat skills, and specialized skills. The Royal Marines use a range of equipment and vehicles, including tracked and wheeled armored vehicles, to conduct their operations.
