What is Force Recon Marine?
The United States Marine Corps has a long and storied history of serving as the nation’s ground combat force, with various branches and units specializing in different areas of warfare. One of the most elite and secretive units within the Marine Corps is the Force Reconnaissance (FORECON) Marine.
What is Force Recon Marine?
Force Recon Marines are trained to conduct ground reconnaissance, which involves observing and reporting on enemy military operations, infrastructure, and other key targets. They are the eyes and ears of the Marine Corps, gathering vital intelligence to support mission planning and execution.
Contents
History of Force Recon Marines
The concept of force reconnaissance dates back to World War II, when small teams of Marines were used to conduct reconnaissance missions behind enemy lines. However, it wasn’t until the Vietnam War that the role of Force Recon Marines as we know it today began to take shape.
During the Vietnam War, FORCE RECON teams were instrumental in gathering intelligence on North Vietnamese Army (NVA) and Viet Cong (VC) troop movements, as well as identifying targets for air and artillery strikes. These teams were responsible for conducting reconnaissance missions, ambushes, and other operations deep behind enemy lines.
Functions and Responsibilities
Force Recon Marines are responsible for conducting a variety of missions, including:
- Ground Reconnaissance: Collecting information on enemy forces, infrastructure, and dispositions.
- Deep Reconnaissance: Conducting missions behind enemy lines, often for extended periods.
- Special Operations: Participating in special operations such as direct action, hostage rescue, and unconventional warfare.
- Intelligence Gathering: Collecting and reporting on enemy communications, troop movements, and other key information.
Some of the Key Responsibilities of Force Recon Marines Include:
• Surveillance and Observation: Conducting surveillance and observation missions to gather information on enemy movements and dispositions.
• Target Identification: Identifying and reporting on key targets, such as command centers, supply depots, and troop concentrations.
• Intelligence Support: Providing intelligence support to other units, such as artillery and air support teams.
• Unconventional Warfare: Conducting unconventional warfare operations, such as guerrilla warfare, counterinsurgency, and sabotage.
Training and Selection
Becoming a Force Recon Marine requires a high level of physical fitness, mental toughness, and specialized training. Prospective FORCE RECONs must first complete the grueling Basic Reconnaissance Course, which includes training in:
- Arctic and Desert Survival
- Advanced First Aid
- Patrolling and Navigation
- Communications and Electronics
- Demolitions and Explosives
- Counterterrorism and Unconventional Warfare
After completing Basic Reconnaissance Course, selected Marines attend the Marine Corps Reconnaissance Officers Course, which focuses on advanced reconnaissance techniques, planning, and execution.
Selection Process:
The selection process for FORCE RECON is notoriously tough and includes:
• Mental and Physical Screening
• Written and Psychological Exams
• Physical Fitness Test
• Obstacle Course and Combat Training
• Leadership and Team-Building Exercises
Force Recon Marine Units:
There are several FORCE RECON units within the Marine Corps, including:
- 1st Marine Reconnaissance Battalion (1stMRB) – Based at Camp Pendleton, California
- 2nd Marine Reconnaissance Battalion (2ndMRB) – Based at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina
- 3rd Marine Reconnaissance Battalion (3rdMRB) – Based at Okinawa, Japan
Conclusion
Force Recon Marines are the elite of the elite, trained to conduct specialized missions behind enemy lines and gather vital intelligence to support mission planning and execution. Their training is rigorous and selective, and only a select few make it through the grueling selection process. As the eyes and ears of the Marine Corps, FORCE RECONs play a critical role in supporting ground combat operations and ensuring the success of mission objectives.
Key Points:
- Force Recon Marines are trained to conduct ground reconnaissance, gathering intelligence on enemy military operations, infrastructure, and other key targets.
- FORCE RECON teams have a long history, dating back to World War II.
- Force Recon Marines are responsible for conducting a variety of missions, including ground reconnaissance, deep reconnaissance, special operations, and intelligence gathering.
- Becoming a Force Recon Marine requires a high level of physical fitness, mental toughness, and specialized training.
- FORCE RECON units are spread across the globe, with bases in California, North Carolina, and Okinawa, Japan.
