Are marines the first to fight? This question has long been a topic of debate among military enthusiasts and historians. The phrase “the first to fight” is often associated with the United States Marine Corps, suggesting that they take the brunt of the initial combat in any conflict. This article aims to explore the origins of this notion and examine whether it holds true in modern warfare.
The concept of marines being the first to fight can be traced back to the early days of the Marine Corps. Founded in 1775, the United States Marine Corps was initially established to protect the interests of the United States during the Revolutionary War. The first official Marine Corps units were formed to defend the American colonies and to engage in amphibious operations against the British. This early history laid the foundation for the perception that marines are the first to fight.
One of the key reasons behind this perception is the nature of amphibious warfare. Marines are specifically trained for amphibious operations, which involve landing troops on enemy shores. This makes them the first to engage the enemy in many conflicts. For example, during World War II, the Battle of Iwo Jima is a prime example of marines being the first to fight. The 5th Marine Division landed on the island on February 19, 1945, and faced fierce resistance from the Japanese forces. The battle lasted for 36 days, and the marines were instrumental in securing victory for the Allies.
Another factor contributing to the notion that marines are the first to fight is their role in special operations. The Marine Corps has a long history of conducting covert missions and special operations, often in the most dangerous and challenging environments. These missions require marines to be the first to enter enemy territory, gather intelligence, and engage in combat. The elite units, such as the Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command (MARSOC), continue to play a crucial role in modern warfare, reinforcing the perception that marines are the first to fight.
However, it is important to note that the concept of marines being the first to fight is not absolute. In many conflicts, other branches of the military, such as the Army and the Air Force, have also played significant roles in the initial stages of combat. For instance, during the Gulf War in 1991, the Air Force conducted extensive air strikes before the ground forces, including the Marine Corps, entered combat. Similarly, in the current conflicts in the Middle East, the role of the Marine Corps has evolved, with a greater emphasis on expeditionary operations and special operations rather than being the sole force engaged in the initial combat.
In conclusion, while the phrase “the first to fight” is often associated with the United States Marine Corps, it is not an absolute truth. The Marine Corps has a rich history of engaging in amphibious operations and special missions, which have contributed to the perception that they are the first to fight. However, in modern warfare, the roles of various branches of the military have become more intertwined, and the concept of marines being the first to fight has evolved. Despite this, the Marine Corps remains a vital component of the United States military, ready to take on the most challenging missions and fight wherever the nation’s interests are at stake.
