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The Marine Corps is the branch of the U.S. armed forces that fights from sea and land, often as a rapid response force. Marines are trained for operations that begin at sea and serve aboard ships, at bases, and at embassies. The Marine Corps is part of the Department of the Navy.

People usually bring questions about what the Marines do, how the corps is organized, and how it differs from the Army and the Navy. Others ask about ranks and insignia, how Marines are trained, and how to choose among the armed services.

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October 3last updated

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All Articles on Marines

Marine Corps Ranks and Insignia: A Guide

Marine Corps ranks pair familiar stripes and officer symbols with pay grades. The enlisted, warrant and officer paths explain what each insignia means.

27 Min Read

The U.S. Marine Corps: Structure, Mission, and Modernization

The United States Marine Corps stands as a unique component of the U.S. Armed Forces, renowned for its expeditionary nature and constant state of…

37 Min Read

Choosing a Military Branch: Army vs. Navy vs. Air Force vs. Marines vs. Space Force

How the six armed services differ for someone deciding to enlist: test scores, medical waivers, training length, deployment, pay and the contract terms.

86 Min Read