Loss of Expeditionary Nature Within the Marine Corps

Abstract : The Marine Corps must not sacrifice its expeditionary capability by acquiring larger combat vehicles, establishing costly, long-term forward operating bases, and depending on contracted support. Expeditionary operations have been the unique capability which separates the Marine Corps from the United State's sister services, a source of pride for Marines. Having prided ourselves in this unique ability throughout the history of the Marine Corps, we have strayed from it in the past years. This has been identified by our Commandant with his vision for our future. The Marine Corps historical ability to rapidly deploy throughout the world has secured a place for the Marine Corps in the defense of our nation's interests. Current sustained operations in both Iraq and Afghanistan have taken their toll on this unique capability. Some would argue that the Marine Corps are modeling themselves after a more conventional ground force.