special operations forces » marine force recon

Marine Force Recon

United States Marine Corps Force Reconnaissance, otherwise known as Force Recon, units are a special operations force under the command of the United States Marine Corps. Many Force Recon Marines have now been integrated into MARSOC, however the Corps will retain its own dedicated Force Recon units until 2010.

Force Recon insignia

Force Recon - Roles

The primary role of Force Recon marine is to gather intelligence in support of USMC operations.

amphibious operations
- scout swimming
- beach/coastline reconnaissance
- small boat operations
deep reconnaissance
unconventional warfare
foreign internal defense (FID)
special reconnaissance
direct action
counter-terrorism

A Marine from 3rd Force Reconnaissance comes out of the surf.(view full image)

Dod photo :
Cpl. Edward L. Mennenga

Force Recon - Organization

Force Reconnaissance Marines that have not been reassigned to MSOB units within MARSOC have been integrated into 'Delta' Companies within division recon battalions, (1st, 2nd and 3rd), forming Deep Reconnaissance Platoons (DRPs).

When Force Recon Marines deploy with a Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) MEU(SOC) they form the Direct Action Platoon of the Assault Element of the MEU(SOC)'s Maritime Special Purpose Force.