United States Marine Corps Reconnaissance Battalions

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Marine Reconnaissance Battalions in the United States Marine Corps, often called "Recon Marines", exist to provide information about the enemy situation to higher command via patrols behind enemy lines. The members of Recon Battalions are specialy selected through a grueling screening process at their respective Battalion, and upon their completion attend either the Basic Reconnaissance Course on the west cost or Amphibious Reconnaissance School on the east coast. While at these schools Recon Marines receive training on mission planning, advanced patrolling, advanced radio communications, advanced land navigation, reconnaissance and surveillance techniques, calling for artillery and close air support, small boat operations, and clandestine operations. Upon successful completion of either school the Marines receive the MOS of 0321 Reconnaissance man. He will then attend S.E.R.E School, Army Airborne School, and Combatant Diver school. In addition to these core courses Recon Marines will have the opportunity to attend Sniper school, Military Free Fall school, Ranger school, and H.R.S.T. master school as slots become available.

There are 4 reconnaissance battalions in the Marine Corps:

1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division
2nd Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division
3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, 3rd Marine Division
4th Reconnaissance Battalion, 4th Marine Division (Marine Forces Reserve)

Traditionally, Recon Marines have operated ahead of the front lines, making extended foot patrols deep into unfriendly territory, carrying light equipment and avoiding detection by or contact with the enemy. In the Iraq War, however, they have operated in a more traditional counterinsurgency role, patrolling in Humvees, wearing Kevlar helmets and body armor, gathering intelligence face-to-face rather than through binoculars, and acting directly on the intelligence they gather rather than simply passing it on to higher command.