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Marine Force Recon

Force Recon insignia

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

Dod photo :
Cpl. Edward L. Mennenga

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 - 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

Force Recon Marines are trained in parachuting, including high altitude techniques (HALO, HAHO), skiing and amphibious techniques, including working with SCUBA gear.

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).