Should the saying "every Marine a rifleman" be changed?

LCpl Tad Cunningham — Wed, 13 Apr 2016 14:04:24 -0400

A commonly thrown around term is "Every Marine is a rifleman" I strongly disagree with this statement as I am an 0311 Rifleman. I do agree that every Marine is expected to know how to shoot and qual annually with a rifle. Doesn't mean they're a rifleman. What does everyone else think?

Response by Capt Seid Waddell made Apr 13 at 2016 2:06 PM

Capt Seid Waddell — Wed, 13 Apr 2016 14:06:11 -0400

Agree.

Response by SrA Edward Vong made Apr 13 at 2016 2:08 PM

SrA Edward Vong — Wed, 13 Apr 2016 14:08:32 -0400

I would rid of this but the reason I believe they haven't yet is due to tradition and culture.

Response by SN Greg Wright made Apr 13 at 2016 2:09 PM

SN Greg Wright — Wed, 13 Apr 2016 14:09:07 -0400

One of the MC's best strengths is it's rich history and traditions. Don't go messing with it now.

Response by Capt Walter Miller made Apr 13 at 2016 2:10 PM

Capt Walter Miller — Wed, 13 Apr 2016 14:10:03 -0400

It is not broken.

Walt

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 13 at 2016 2:10 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 13 Apr 2016 14:10:28 -0400

Here's the deal...I was an 0341 23 years ago. Now I'm a medic and a nurse in the Army Reserve. The Marine Corps definitely takes a different approach to marksmanship than the Army does...going all the way back to boot camp. If I'm in a firefight, and some Marine with a non-03 MOS picked up a rifle next to me, I'd feel a damn bit safer than if a soldier with the same job did the same thing.

Response by Capt Walter Miller made Apr 13 at 2016 2:11 PM

Capt Walter Miller — Wed, 13 Apr 2016 14:11:54 -0400

You should use a picture of a real Marine rifleman, not an actor.

Response by LCpl Jesse Foust made Apr 13 at 2016 2:12 PM

LCpl Jesse Foust — Wed, 13 Apr 2016 14:12:30 -0400

Let's make it "rifleperson" for the sake of gender equality.

Response by Sgt Abdullahi Mohamud made Apr 13 at 2016 2:16 PM

Sgt Abdullahi Mohamud — Wed, 13 Apr 2016 14:16:23 -0400

0311 for life!
For an Infantryman: it's Death before Dishonor
I have noticed that there were difference between the culture of Infantry units and the rest after switching units.

Infantrymen do not cradle childlike adults.

Semper Fi

Response by Sgt Stewart Wiley made Apr 13 at 2016 2:22 PM

Sgt Stewart Wiley — Wed, 13 Apr 2016 14:22:51 -0400

I would agree, as a tanker / tank mechanic we we more proficient in the use of our main weapon system vs the rifle

Response by CPT Joseph K Murdock made Apr 13 at 2016 2:24 PM

CPT Joseph K Murdock — Wed, 13 Apr 2016 14:24:32 -0400

To say all marines are equal is false.

Response by 1stSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 13 at 2016 2:25 PM

1stSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 13 Apr 2016 14:25:52 -0400

No, it should not. This is what separates us from everyone else. Change that and just make us a separate battalion in the Army.

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 13 at 2016 2:30 PM

Cpl Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 13 Apr 2016 14:30:14 -0400

LCpl Tad Cunningham Every Marine is a Rifleman. That is one of the things that separate us from the different services. Each and everyone of us from admin to motor t is proficient with a rifle and have basic combat training. You are a Infantryman which is the best sort of rifleman. Now as a airwinger, I did not go to infantry training as you have, and I also did not continue to train as an Infantryman. I was trained basically as a rifleman in MCT and continued on to my MOS school and became and an Ordnanceman. No I was not an Infantryman and never became one. Yes I am a POG airwinger, but first I am a Marine and every Marine is a Rifleman.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 13 at 2016 2:33 PM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 13 Apr 2016 14:33:30 -0400

LCpl Tad Cunningham No. Marines are qualified with the rifle and can and do pick them up when called on. I was a Radio Operator in Vietnam and carried a M16 and a .45. I was not a 0311, but I did use the M16, and considered myself a rifleman. Once a Marine, Always a Marine. Semper Fi.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 13 at 2016 2:42 PM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 13 Apr 2016 14:42:09 -0400

Not a Marine, so I'd feel a little strange "defending" their traditions...but here's my unapologetic opinion folks-

Everyone whose ever worn a uniform knows that the greatest percentage of the Armed Forces is only minimally trained to confront any type of combat scenario. Kinda like getting the safety briefing on an airliner doesn't mean you can fly the plane. People's feelings get hurt, we run out of "binkies", and next thing we know, the entire Army is wearing berets, Sailors are wearing blue cammo on the flight deck, and everyone's got so much Velcro on, it's a wonder we don't all stick together in formation. That said, everyone ALSO knows that the U.S.M.C. has one of the most difficult, if not the most difficult standards to maintain of any service. If that's at all in dispute, then there's their record: I seem to recall a Marine aviator in Afghanistan who died trying to stop a Taliban attack on his FOB with nothing more than his sidearm. I've had the honor of knowing several very well, and calling them close friends-and been to far too many memorial services for them. I never met a Marine of any "flavor" who wasn't a warrior at heart.

As someone who HAS NOT earned the title, I'd say the term "rifleman" is part of their fighting heritage and culture and just like everything else that sets them "apart"...should be maintained.

Dizzy out

Response by Col Jim Harmon made Apr 13 at 2016 2:51 PM

Col Jim Harmon — Wed, 13 Apr 2016 14:51:08 -0400

The term was true when it was founded and it's true today.

Non-infantry Marines are still called on regularly to serve as riflemen during combat operations. I know the Marines assigned to the 3rd MAW Band were a bit surprised when they arrived in Iraq and were immediately assigned to perimeter defense and convoy security operations.

They didn’t complain, they did their job, and they did it well. Not as well as you or your compatriots would have, but they did it anyway. By serving as riflemen in ‘rear area’ positions (as if there was a rear area in Al Anbar) they freed up enough infantry Marines to take Fallujah.

Every Marine is a rifleman. Not all riflemen are equal.

Response by SGT William Howell made Apr 13 at 2016 2:55 PM

SGT William Howell — Wed, 13 Apr 2016 14:55:16 -0400

As far as the Army goes, every Marine is a Rifleman.

Response by Cpl Jon Westbrook made Apr 13 at 2016 3:04 PM

Cpl Jon Westbrook — Wed, 13 Apr 2016 15:04:56 -0400

No. I was an 03 and I understand your frustration and am very familiar with this line of thought, but the truth is that the Marine Corps is different from the other branches. I remember a story that illustrates my point perfectly about a VMF deployed in Afghanistan that had Taliban break through the wire and literally walk into the TOC and start shooting. The pilots and air wingers grabbed their gear, rallied together and pushed them back and out of the compound before holding security until the QRF arrived.

The point is that the Marine Corps is a very small branch, and is designed to operated independently as an expeditionary fighting force. This philosophy means that Marines are going to be out in the bush, often alone, and still expected to accomplish the mission. And if it comes down to it, the cook is just another gun in the fight. A less refined one albeit, but still at the very least 4 degrees of a 360.

Good question though. Keep asking questions and learning bro. There's a wealth of knowledge on here and it isn't often you get to have private conversations about stuff like this with Colonels and Majors. Semper yut kill.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 13 at 2016 3:45 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 13 Apr 2016 15:45:58 -0400

No it shouldnt im a prior Marine and its the truth. If you look at maximum effective range point target of M16 and M4 Marines are the only ones out of basic training capable of doing so. Secondly regardless if you go through MCT or SOI you get trained on basic infantry tactics. Headquarters elements do train with infantry units in the fleet, so I would say yes keep it

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 13 at 2016 4:06 PM

COL Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 13 Apr 2016 16:06:38 -0400

I like this idea a lot. I think it should be taken to its true meaning though. Everyone in the Corps should complete infantry basic and qualify to be a rifleman. Then you retrain them to do the other things. This would ensure that every one of your Marines actually is a rifleman. I don't think we could get there, but damn...that would be the best you could ask for.

Response by Capt Mark Strobl made Apr 13 at 2016 4:26 PM

Capt Mark Strobl — Wed, 13 Apr 2016 16:26:04 -0400

LCpl Tad Cunningham - Unlike our sister-services, we ALL train, to some level, in infantry tactics & weapons. Any 3531, 0411, or 2521 could replace any 0311 --any time, any place. This is possible because the Corps is doctrinally committed to this phrase, that you, apparently detest. Maybe you missed the Commandant's memo regarding combat training across MOS's? Anyway, you might change your thinking if you ever wish to become an 0369.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=syV2LkGpQB0

lighten up, Francis

From the movie "STRIPES". Sgt Hulka telling Francis "Psycho" Sawyer to lighten up

Response by Capt Walter Miller made Apr 13 at 2016 4:54 PM

Capt Walter Miller — Wed, 13 Apr 2016 16:54:13 -0400

What do you think Senior Drill Instructor Sgt. Cambridge thinks?

Response by PO1 William "Chip" Nagel made Apr 13 at 2016 5:10 PM

PO1 William "Chip" Nagel — Wed, 13 Apr 2016 17:10:40 -0400

I can only comment on the other part of that statement "Every Marine and Soldier is a Rifleman and Every Sailor is a Fireman". Contrary to Popular Opinion, Steel Ships Burn and Burn very well so every Sailor better have some Basic Firefighting Skills and Better have put out one Mass Conflagration Fire in Bootcamp like I had to. Of course it was the Last time I had to Thank God (The Only Real one I got to deal with while in Navy Blue was a Forest Fire at a National Park).

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 13 at 2016 5:21 PM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 13 Apr 2016 17:21:05 -0400

Looking at a lot of valid responses here, I'd say that the solution would be changing the title of 0311 to Infantryman? Would that make the 03xx's happy then?
I get it, being a superPOG myself, that there are people out there in the fleet that forgot or never properly learned some basic skills. Not everyone is fully proficient at PMCS of a M-240 or even touching an Mk-19 - depends on the individual and unit. I think that we should do more of that when we go to the field, vs. just getting the mission accomplished. Looking at a grander picture, which we at the lower levels don't see it those METL's being fulfilled, what actually needs to happen and expectation....

In conclusion, I think most of us are riflemen, because we train and are expected to perform as one, when the time comes. Wish POG's would do more of that - patrols, convoys, all the fun MCT stuff but on a more detailed scale, with lots of moving parts.

Response by SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth made Apr 13 at 2016 5:45 PM

SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth — Wed, 13 Apr 2016 17:45:05 -0400

Leave things as they are.

Response by SGT David Emme made Apr 13 at 2016 6:33 PM

SGT David Emme — Wed, 13 Apr 2016 18:33:18 -0400

As a Marine who was in a support unit, we took pride honing our rifleman skills when we could. We understood we were not infantry but supported infantrymen. This was when I was a 2841 at an ELMACO in OKinawa, Japan in 1991-1994. When a Supply Sgt in the US Army in a combat unit getting ready for deployment to Iraq observing a support unit in the Army do some training to do some basic "rifleman" tasks that showed themselves to be so woefully unprepared so close to deployment to Iraq...yes every Marine is a rifleman!

Response by MGySgt Rick Tyrrell made Apr 13 at 2016 7:56 PM

MGySgt Rick Tyrrell — Wed, 13 Apr 2016 19:56:12 -0400

I think if your a Marine and you do not understand that each and every Marine can be called to be a rifleman if necessary there Every Marine is a riflemen first!

Response by Capt Richard I P. made Apr 13 at 2016 8:45 PM

Capt Richard I P. — Wed, 13 Apr 2016 20:45:33 -0400

Nope.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 13 at 2016 10:46 PM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 13 Apr 2016 22:46:34 -0400

The phrase "Every Marine a Rifleman" does not mean the following:
It doesn't mean every Marine holds the actual job/MOS of rifleman.
It doesn't mean every Marine attends infantry training.
It doesn't mean every Marine can operate like a rifleman Marine at a moments notice.
It doesn't mean every Marine when deployed to a combat zone will be an infantryman/rifleman.
It doesn't mean you are an infantryman/rifleman first, and your job second.

Response by SGT Brent Cann made Apr 14 at 2016 2:28 AM

SGT Brent Cann — Thu, 14 Apr 2016 02:28:14 -0400

When shit hits the fan and perimeters are in danger of being breached, ALL Admin and Logistical Military Professions goes out the window and All hands on deck is called. This is true from all branches on the ground in the AO. Every Marine is a Rifleman and Every Soldier is Infantry. That is called Basic Training OR in the case of the Marines, Boot Camp. The basic fundamentals are taught to all personnel. Then you go to Advanced Schools for more in depth training within your chosen profession. Throughout everyone's careers while in service, everyone is required to maintain the "basic" fundamentals that were taught and learned in Basic or Boot (Depending on which Branch you went into.) IF those basic fundamentals are not kept strong then that is the Failure of Leadership.

Response by GySgt John O'Donnell made Apr 14 at 2016 4:53 AM

GySgt John O'Donnell — Thu, 14 Apr 2016 04:53:30 -0400

Brother, though I understand your pride as an 0311, we as Marines are are set apart from other service branches because all Marines attend the School of Infantry for 28 days of "basic" infantry training at either Marine Combat Training Battalion (MCT) or Infantry Training Battalion (ITB).
As a former 8513/0913 Marine Combat Instructor at School of Infanty (West) who served at all levels of training, I can 100% confirm that every Marine is taught and then practically applies the skills of an 03xx during the initial 28 day period. As a 0311, or 0321, 0331, 0341, 0351, you receive advanced MOS specific infantry training that earns the MOS you choose, just as non-infantry Marines go to MOS specific training to earn their MOS. But the foundational infantry training received all Marines after recruit training allows for better communication and understanding on the battlefields our Marine Corps has and will fight on yesterday, today, and tomorrow. That said, "every Marine a (basic) Rifleman" takes nothing away from you as a "advanced" Rifleman (0311), because in the end you are at the tip of the spear, and every Marines' effort on the battlefield is there to support your outcomes. Semper Fi, Brother!!

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 14 at 2016 5:43 AM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 14 Apr 2016 05:43:33 -0400

I am in different about this because like you said all of you have to be qualified but not everyone has that most.

Response by PO3 David Fries made Apr 14 at 2016 6:41 AM

PO3 David Fries — Thu, 14 Apr 2016 06:41:24 -0400

I believe that there is a disconnect between what you are thinking of as a Rifleman, and what the Doctrine is calling a Rifleman. As far as the Doctrine is concerned, a Rifleman is any Marine that can pick up a rifle, point it down range, and put rounds on target, or at least provide fire support/covering fire. Every Marine is supposed to be able to do that. However, not every Marine is Infantry. Take me for instance; I served with Lima 3/3. I served with a Grunt unit, but I wasn't a Grunt. However, thanks to my training, I sure as heck could put rounds down range if necessary ( of course only in defense of myself or my patients, because the Geneva Conventions said so lol).

Response by SSgt Dan Montague made Apr 14 at 2016 10:00 AM

SSgt Dan Montague — Thu, 14 Apr 2016 10:00:36 -0400

Every Marine is a trained rifleman. You sir are a trained infantryman. A rifleman, is a Marine basically trained with marksmanship.

Response by SFC J Fullerton made Apr 14 at 2016 11:35 AM

SFC J Fullerton — Thu, 14 Apr 2016 11:35:14 -0400

No, it is a USMC tradition and it is true. You should not feel like it devalues your MOS. The saying "Every Marine is a Rifleman" has the same meaning as the Army saying that you are a "Soldier First". What that means is that in a combat zone, every pair of boots on the ground regardless of MOS must have the ability and capability to engage the enemy, support the mission in any capacity necessary, and survive on the battlefield. OIF/OEF proved that.

Response by 1stLt William Jones made Apr 14 at 2016 1:25 PM

1stLt William Jones — Thu, 14 Apr 2016 13:25:37 -0400

As a very old 0301 who was lucky to work for good Bn commanders I would certainly take a 3511 from our motor pool over an army O4 who was in a support MOS

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 14 at 2016 1:38 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 14 Apr 2016 13:38:37 -0400

Welcome to the "I live me a Marine" page.

Response by PO3 Sandra Gomke made Apr 14 at 2016 1:39 PM

PO3 Sandra Gomke — Thu, 14 Apr 2016 13:39:12 -0400

What are the qualifications for being an 0311 Rifleman? Or rather, what are the differences between being 0311 and annually qualifying with a rifle?

Response by GySgt David Andrews made Apr 14 at 2016 1:45 PM

GySgt David Andrews — Thu, 14 Apr 2016 13:45:39 -0400

rifleman
noun ri·fle·man \-mən\
Simple Definition of rifleman
: a soldier who carries a rifle
: a person who is skilled at shooting a rifle

infantryman
noun in·fan·try·man \-trē-mən
Simple Definition of infantryman
: a soldier who is in the infantry

Response by Maj Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 14 at 2016 1:56 PM

Maj Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 14 Apr 2016 13:56:20 -0400

The phrase is "Every Marine a rifleman" not "Every Marine an infantryman." If that were the case, I would agree with your premise but every Marine must meet the standards of a rifleman, not an infantryman. I would argue that there is a difference between the two.

Response by Cpl Chad Perry made Apr 14 at 2016 2:15 PM

Cpl Chad Perry — Thu, 14 Apr 2016 14:15:07 -0400

Based on my own experience I do believe every Marine is a rifleman. I was motor T in an infantry regiment. I spent a lot of time training right along side the infantry, and I even spent some time with a recon company. I was also a PMI. Therefore, even though I was not an 03XX, if I ever found myself in a situation where I had to be infantry, I would have been just fine.

Response by Sgt Daniel Nicholas made Apr 14 at 2016 2:49 PM

Sgt Daniel Nicholas — Thu, 14 Apr 2016 14:49:50 -0400

Every Marine is a rifleman. However, not every Marine is THE rifleman. That being said, I've seen plenty of Marines that couldn't shoot their way out of a wet paper bag. I had one Marine in Uganda that told me she felt shooting was not a necessary skill for a Marine. My goal for the next six months was to get her sent stateside. Unfortunately, since she was a she, that didn't happen.

Response by LCpl William Perry made Apr 14 at 2016 3:40 PM

LCpl William Perry — Thu, 14 Apr 2016 15:40:42 -0400

From what I saw all Marines are riflemen. I myself was a 0331 so I had to qual with the M16, 45 and the M60. Once I was transferred Marine Barracks the same thing with no less expectations. During this time I would see cooks, engineers...etc doing the same. And I would say straight forward if at a base and it was hit I feel a lot more better to see a paper pusher with the eagle, globe and anchor on his uniform coming out with a rifle then a sailor with one. I mean the sailor may end up shooting me first by mistake. All Devil Dogs are Riflemen, you just maybe a better shot!

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 14 at 2016 3:57 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 14 Apr 2016 15:57:12 -0400

when you went boot were you trained in your mos or were you trained as a grunt

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 14 at 2016 4:32 PM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 14 Apr 2016 16:32:12 -0400

LCpl Tad Cunningham I have seen combat as a 2531 Field Radio Operator and used my M16. If you have been in combat where you have seen non 0311's firing their weapons wildly, then fine. Otherwise, you do not know what you are talking about.

This focus on the infantry is matched with the doctrine of "Every Marine [is] a rifleman", a focus of Commandant Alfred M. Gray, Jr., emphasizing the infantry combat abilities of every Marine. All Marines, regardless of military specialization, receive training as a rifleman.

Response by LTC Stephen B. made Apr 14 at 2016 7:34 PM

LTC Stephen B. — Thu, 14 Apr 2016 19:34:21 -0400

The saying is "Every Marine is a Rifleman". It is NOT "Every Marine is an Infantryman". I don't see what your issue is.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 14 at 2016 8:55 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 14 Apr 2016 20:55:21 -0400

The issue with what youre saying is that you think rifleman implies infantryman, which it most definitely does not. Rifleman as in qualified with to use a rifle.

Response by LCpl Jim Pleace made Apr 14 at 2016 8:55 PM

LCpl Jim Pleace — Thu, 14 Apr 2016 20:55:44 -0400

Rah! -0311

Response by PO3 Chris Scheide made Apr 14 at 2016 11:02 PM

PO3 Chris Scheide — Thu, 14 Apr 2016 23:02:47 -0400

The difference is that you are a 0311 Rifleman with a capital letter 'R' and every marine is expected to be a rifleman with a lowercase 'r'. Yours is a proper noun the other is an adjective.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 14 at 2016 11:35 PM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 14 Apr 2016 23:35:23 -0400

The idea isn't meant to be that every Marine is equal to you, it's meant to signify that every Marine is capable of picking up a rifle and being useful in a fight, and specifically to show that difference between the Marines and other services. It's not a dig at you, it's a dig at me and everybody else. Its intent is to designate the Marines as more ready and lethal than the rest of us. Wear it with pride and believe it; the rest of us don't buy it or care.

Response by TSgt Marco McDowell made Apr 15 at 2016 8:01 AM

TSgt Marco McDowell — Fri, 15 Apr 2016 08:01:40 -0400

Basic rifleman. In other words, if ish hit the fan and some of us...what do you call us...oh yeah, POGs were around at the time, there'd be a general idea as to what to do and basic commands given. Not sure what you'd refer to calling everyone. 03s drive vehicles, get called operators, but Motor T guys don't get the feels over it. I never had pains when a grunt used my radio after getting trained on it. Dig on in to Marine Corps history and it'll explain why Marines are basic riflemen. Supply guys in WW2 filling in the infantry losses, you'll see cooks in Korea getting some and then heading back to the chow hall, or artillerymen in Iraq running patrols and then returning to the gun line, FOs, combat engineers,RTOs, you name it, all humping with the grunts and knowing WTF contact left or hand signals are or how to set up LP/OPs. Basic rifleman stuff.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 15 at 2016 12:54 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 15 Apr 2016 12:54:22 -0400

I agree with you.

Response by Cpl Daniel Welle made Apr 18 at 2016 1:48 PM

Cpl Daniel Welle — Mon, 18 Apr 2016 13:48:27 -0400

I hate to say it but why are you butthurt over this? It's something that is explained over and over throughout Bootcamp and subsequent training. At any given moment a Marine passing out in supply or typing away in admin can be given a rifle and sent to a line company. There are better things to trouble yourself with.

Response by PO2 Randall Knight made Apr 20 at 2016 4:08 PM

PO2 Randall Knight — Wed, 20 Apr 2016 16:08:12 -0400

I was under the impression it was "basically trained rifleman".... I was in the air wing an make no claims to have near the qualifications an 0311 has. That said if the need arose the Marines at our airstation could be called on to stand a post and defend our perimeter.

Response by Cpl Brian Miller made Jul 27 at 2016 9:31 AM

Cpl Brian Miller — Wed, 27 Jul 2016 09:31:18 -0400

I think every single marine is trained to be a basic rifleman. And that that is a source of pride for many Marines. And as such every single marine being basically trained to be a rifleman is in face a rifleman.

Response by LCpl Jim Pleace made Jul 28 at 2016 3:56 PM

LCpl Jim Pleace — Thu, 28 Jul 2016 15:56:39 -0400

Who is asking these stupid questions?? Shit can them immediately

Response by Van Wahlgren made Oct 4 at 2016 7:45 AM

Van Wahlgren — Tue, 04 Oct 2016 07:45:01 -0400

good point. There are actually more aviation in the marines than infantry.

Response by Capt Walter Miller made Oct 20 at 2016 3:18 PM

Capt Walter Miller — Thu, 20 Oct 2016 15:18:43 -0400

How about, "Every Marine will fuck you up."

Response by Sgt Mervyn Russell made Jan 26 at 2017 12:51 PM

Sgt Mervyn Russell — Thu, 26 Jan 2017 12:51:20 -0500

From the beginning a basic Marine is a rifleman, this standing is and should always be the standards of what a Marine is. i was discharged in 1969 don't think things has changed that much. My MOS was 0311, I've always identified as such.

Response by SMSgt Roger Horton made Mar 13 at 2017 7:20 AM

SMSgt Roger Horton — Mon, 13 Mar 2017 07:20:18 -0400

Where would 03s be without the other Marines to support you. In Vietnam when 7th Marines went on a mission, the other support type Marines such as Engineers, Cooks, Transport, etc, filled their foxholes. We had to do our work during the day and fill in for you at night. Yes every Marine is a rifleman.

Response by SGT Aaron Atwood made Jun 3 at 2017 8:09 AM

SGT Aaron Atwood — Sat, 03 Jun 2017 08:09:56 -0400

While it will always be up for debate about every Marine being a rifleman (grunts vs the non-grunts) one thing that cannot be debated is that every Marine is a janitor. Grunt or not any of us regardless of MOS can get hired by a custodial company literally the day of our EAS.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 15 at 2017 1:07 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 15 Sep 2017 13:07:57 -0400

Every Marines is a rifleman, not every Marine is an Infantry Rifleman. That's the key difference that you should seize upon. Non-Infantry Marines have done great things in the Corps in the past, continue to do great things now, and will do so in the future. That doesn't diminish what we do as Infantry, continue to take pride in what you do and keep the faith with your fellow Marines.

Response by SPC Roger Giffen made Sep 15 at 2017 1:12 PM

SPC Roger Giffen — Fri, 15 Sep 2017 13:12:32 -0400

Everyone in the Army has an unofficial MOS as an infantry man. In case of emergency, grab your rifle.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 15 at 2017 1:14 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 15 Sep 2017 13:14:36 -0400

I came to kill, label it whatever you want and at the end of the day, in combat it is kill or be killed! As Marines if we can't kill then we are wrong and must fix the deficiency.

Response by SGT Jose Perdelia-Torres made Sep 15 at 2017 1:39 PM

SGT Jose Perdelia-Torres — Fri, 15 Sep 2017 13:39:46 -0400

deleted as my comments weren't in line with how i wanted to address the post.... i need to think on this some more...

Response by SSG Ray Murphy made Sep 15 at 2017 1:42 PM

SSG Ray Murphy — Fri, 15 Sep 2017 13:42:19 -0400

I agree. It's wishful thinking at best, poor marketing at worst. I get the underlying intent, they want all Marines regardless of Occupational Specialty to be able to pick up a weapon on the battlefield and be able to hold their own. That might have worked as an expectation in WW1 thru Viet Nam, but not anymore. Understand the limitations and work them into mission planning. Knowing that every swinging Dick and Jane in cammies IS NOT a war-fighting machine is half the battle ;)

Response by SGM Erik Marquez made Sep 15 at 2017 2:06 PM

SGM Erik Marquez — Fri, 15 Sep 2017 14:06:49 -0400

As a concept "A commonly thrown around term is "Every Marine is a rifleman" is accurate, in reality, the majority of the non infantry soft marine MOS service members I met, had not touched a rifle other then to annually qualify with it since they went to that initial basic course.
So yes, on the 29th day, "Every Marine is a rifleman" as everyone of them have attended the basic rifleman course.
3,5,10 years down the road, that Marine cook, signalman, Network operators is not more a skilled riflemen than their Army counterpart. Both can generally remember which way to point the rifle , load, reduce stoppage and engage a training target... But having met and worked with hundreds of non infantry Marines...Id be no more confident, provide any less supervision, guidance and over watch to a SSGT Marine cook I had to put in a tower on guard then I would a SSG Army Cook in that same tower. ... For sure basic rifle skills like marksmanship beyond a 25meter target will come back faster to the marine that has at least had long ago some on hands training...Vice the Army SSG cook that likely has never done more then shoot the pop up range a few times over the years, assuming their unit does not use the common fall back of a 25 range.

NONE of that is meant to talk down about Marines or Army Cooks for that matter .. They have a job, and they are good at the job, because they train on it every day. But no one being honest with them selfs is going to say a person that did 28 days of training 3, 5, 8, 10 years ago has retained any significant measure of that basic training all those years later.

Response by PO1 RIchard Petty made Sep 15 at 2017 2:40 PM

PO1 RIchard Petty — Fri, 15 Sep 2017 14:40:39 -0400

Ok here is my two cents, he was a terminal lance corporal last promotion was four years ago, you guys are spinning up for nothing. He is trolling to see what happens when people respond to his post. Don't give him the satisfaction.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 15 at 2017 2:49 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 15 Sep 2017 14:49:24 -0400

I have been out of the marines since 1994. In December I retire after 16 (additional) years in the NG. I STILL HAVE BETTER RIFLEMAN SKILLS THEN MOST of the NG soldiers I serve with and better rifleman skills then many of the infantry in the NG units in my state. I still know more about being a rifleman then many current service members. I did this as a then 2531(now 6800 series I think radio Operator) assigned to A Co 1/3. That time coupled with my Boot Camp time did this. Yeah i am not a "rifleman" but I am a rifleman and will never forget those lessened learned as a "non-rifleman" Marine. So my vote is for absolutely not doing this ever. It makes the USMC unique.

Response by Sgt Larry Irvine made Sep 15 at 2017 3:11 PM

Sgt Larry Irvine — Fri, 15 Sep 2017 15:11:27 -0400

Every Marine is trained with the rifle. Hence, a rifleman. However basic.
You on, the other hand, are trained in infantry tactics. Still a rifleman, no longer basic.
Sgt. Irvine 0311

Response by PFC Bradley Campbell made Sep 15 at 2017 3:30 PM

PFC Bradley Campbell — Fri, 15 Sep 2017 15:30:54 -0400

there is a reason i made this meme and even posted it here a while back. if you run out of planes, helicopters or tanks, you become infantry. and the basics must always be there and to a useful skill level. this must always be your mindset.

Response by SrA Daniel Hunter made Sep 15 at 2017 3:31 PM

SrA Daniel Hunter — Fri, 15 Sep 2017 15:31:53 -0400

Where the hell is the eye-roll emoji?

Response by 1SG Michael Farrell made Sep 15 at 2017 3:58 PM

1SG Michael Farrell — Fri, 15 Sep 2017 15:58:27 -0400

Speaking as an old Army NCO, I always held up that Marine boast as being symbolic of what it means to be a soldier regardless of uniform, and was very vocal that we all should make that our individual goal. If you change that, you may be acknowledging a new reality, but the ultimate loss will be inevitable, particularly in a world of asynchronous warfare mission sprint as opposed to creep. Everybody better be a rifleman in that world, and the Marines need to remain the best at it. If you wear a uniform, you're supposed to be able to pick up that rifle and do what needs to be done; because the Marines invest time and training in it and have that as part of their mystique, guess what, they're the best at it. Something for other services to aspire to and something to defend proudly.

Response by SSgt Thomas Phillips made Sep 15 at 2017 4:27 PM

SSgt Thomas Phillips — Fri, 15 Sep 2017 16:27:54 -0400

After 20ish years as a support type, I do agree that every Marine is a rifleman, just as I also agree that not all Marines are infantrymen. I was a Utilities Marine, I made sure that everybody had power when requested, water when required, and HVAC when necessary. My job was to support the infantry. I understand that. That doesn't mean that my responsibility to my Marines training suffered any less. We trained with weapons at every available opportunity. That doesn't make us infantrymen, that reinforces we are riflemen.

Response by Cpl Rc Layne made Sep 15 at 2017 6:07 PM

Cpl Rc Layne — Fri, 15 Sep 2017 18:07:38 -0400

Its an expectation that every Marine, including cooks and bakers, be able to wield a weapon when need be. And as a former Marksmanship Instructor, while a lot of our non infantry Marines aren't the best shots, some of our infantry Marines aren't the best either. But damned near everyone can be trained up. It's all about the leadership wanting to devote resources.

Response by LtCol David Pruett made Sep 15 at 2017 6:08 PM

LtCol David Pruett — Fri, 15 Sep 2017 18:08:03 -0400

No, for all of the reasons stated herein.

Response by LtCol George Carlson made Sep 15 at 2017 7:47 PM

LtCol George Carlson — Fri, 15 Sep 2017 19:47:06 -0400

Spring of 1970, RVN. Americal Division had just taken over Chu Lai air base defense. They had the nerve to come on line and request "help" from 1st Marine Aircraft Wing. I was XO of the Ground Defense Company, known as "Zulu" company. We sent a reinforced rifle platoon (made up entirely of non-03 MOSs that had worked and trained together all along) to "bail out" a "leg" infantry division. Don't even try to tell me that every Marine is not a rifleman. That's no disrespect to the pro 0311 who definitely has the sharper skill set. Most all Marines can drive vehicles too and that doesn't disrespect the 35xx who does it as a profession.

Response by SGT Robert Riley made Sep 15 at 2017 11:13 PM

SGT Robert Riley — Fri, 15 Sep 2017 23:13:53 -0400

As a former Army 12B (Combat Engineer), I don't think the Marine Corps should "deep six" that motto " Every Marine is a rifleman" because that is what sets you apart from us Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Coasties. In the Army, we still do have people in other MOS fields that do not see themselves as rifle carrying soldiers but as that particular MOS and don't envision themselves defending their FOB or outpost against an organized attack but tours in Iraq and Afghanistan changed that. You Marines, albeit your MOS have been trained to be basic riflemen and therefore, your infantry side of the house can confidently know, they will have back-up even if the Marines are not up to the standards of a well trained 0311.

Response by Cpl Ray Frigerio made Sep 16 at 2017 12:52 PM

Cpl Ray Frigerio — Sat, 16 Sep 2017 12:52:14 -0400

I think more emphasis should be placed on infantry training for all MOS's. I came in under Al Gray and this was beginning to come to the fore then . Any marine can end up in combat , even us Airedales so it's important.

Response by SFC Oddie Brown made Sep 16 at 2017 3:31 PM

SFC Oddie Brown — Sat, 16 Sep 2017 15:31:44 -0400

If it ain't broke don't fix it. Semper Fi, and no I was not in the Corps but there is a meaning and history behind that motto. Leave it alone.

Response by CW3 Matt Hutchason made Sep 16 at 2017 8:31 PM

CW3 Matt Hutchason — Sat, 16 Sep 2017 20:31:54 -0400

Hey Tad, I'm gonna have to disagree. In '93 I was in S Battery 5/10. We went to Somalia and became...... A provisional rifle company. Every Marine is indeed a rifleman.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 16 at 2017 10:41 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 16 Sep 2017 22:41:06 -0400

I'm no Marine so I'll stay out of this one.

Response by Maj Tim Rogers made Sep 19 at 2017 12:34 AM

Maj Tim Rogers — Tue, 19 Sep 2017 00:34:09 -0400

While on Active Duty, I had numerous occasions to brief members of other Services about the Marine Corps. Included in this was the ethos of "Every Marine a rifleman". I regularly pointed out that it was more of a mindset, and not a statement of a qualification; the idea that there are no non-combatant Marines. Moreover, that every Marine needs to be mentally prepared that they are expected to fight, regardless of MOS. I know that the attitude of "Every Marine a rifleman" is one of the key factors that makes the Marine Corps one of the premier fighting forces in history.

Response by LtCol George Carlson made Sep 19 at 2017 2:00 AM

LtCol George Carlson — Tue, 19 Sep 2017 02:00:05 -0400

Ultimately, land combat comes down to a simple thing. One person, planting their feet shoulder width apart and saying, "this square meter is mine, and to take it, you have to remove me." The 0311 is the professional. But every Marine can, and will do it when required. My other comment refers. "nuff said.

Response by LCpl Douglas Landrith Jr made Sep 23 at 2017 3:01 PM

LCpl Douglas Landrith Jr — Sat, 23 Sep 2017 15:01:16 -0400

I think it should remain the way it is because it is true for the most part.

When my pop went to Vietnam he went as a cook. He was a cook for 3 days and was sent to An Hoa. Besides patrolling as an infantry Marine he also was assigned as a Helo Support crew member. He never served a day in Vietnam as a cook except the first 3 days he was in country. He is the only cook I know that has 4 or 5 confirmed kills, haha! So my pop is one of those, every Marine is a Rifleman and he consistently shot 243 out of 250 on his rifle quals.

Semper Fi!

Response by CW3 Harvey K. made Oct 6 at 2017 5:20 PM

CW3 Harvey K. — Fri, 06 Oct 2017 17:20:50 -0400

I'm proud of my shooting skills, and continued the Corps tradition of wearing my marksmanship medals as an Army Warrant Officer (elsewhere detailed on this site).
The truth of "every Marine a rifleman" was made clear to me long before I enlisted by the experience of my older brother (a career Marine) in Korea. He was then a Gunnery Sergeant, serving in his career field of Personnel. Even so, he was proud to qualify as an expert rifleman every year.
When all hell broke loose with the Red China troops streaming over the Yalu River, he dropped his typewriter and grabbed his M-1.
He had a twisted right pinky finger. He caught a piece of shrapnel there while in a firefight, pulled it out with his teeth, and resumed engaging the enemy. He never asked for a Purple Heart, even though he was most certainly wounded in combat with the enemy. He considered it too minor a wound for such a decoration.
I leave to your imagination what he thought of Sen. Kerry and his three Purple Hearts, awarded to Kerry without so much as one light duty chit for all three "wounds".
Semper Fi.

Response by SSgt Steve Swiontkowski made Oct 6 at 2017 7:39 PM

SSgt Steve Swiontkowski — Fri, 06 Oct 2017 19:39:45 -0400

I'll go with a quote of name forgotten pilot's quote when asked. "I am a rifleman currently assigned to fly a jet." It's the attitude more than the weapon carried or serviced, the job assigned to feed or clothe or keep records that determines who is a rifleman. After active duty as a disbursing man, I joined a ready reserve infantry company, and found little if any difference between myself and others who joined to defend this country and its Constitution against ALL enemies, foreign or domestic. Our job is, always has been, always will be, to locate, close with, and destroy the enemy. That is what makes every Marine a rifleman.

Response by SGT Jim Z. made Oct 17 at 2017 2:09 PM

SGT Jim Z. — Tue, 17 Oct 2017 14:09:02 -0400

Response by LtCol Robert Quinter made Oct 19 at 2017 9:10 PM

LtCol Robert Quinter — Thu, 19 Oct 2017 21:10:20 -0400

Every Marine may not be well versed in the finer art of being an 03, but I've seen many 01s and other non 03s performing quite well when the bad guys came through the wire...even pilots have been known to rise to the occasion. No Marine is prone to waiting around for the experts to arrive when their butt is on the line and being capable of using whatever weapon is available is a plus!

Response by GySgt Charles O'Connell made Oct 20 at 2017 7:11 AM

GySgt Charles O'Connell — Fri, 20 Oct 2017 07:11:24 -0400

"Every Marine is a rifleman", true. "Every Marine is a Marine", even more so. The combat arms, storming the beaches, roaring across the desert in tanks, sending rounds long distances. OUTSTANDING!! But none of this happens without the dedication and support of thousands of other Marines. just as dedicated, just as motivated, to see the day won. Is every Marine a rifleman? A Marine is a Marine, not an MOS.

Response by PO2 Skip Kirkwood made Dec 9 at 2017 10:53 AM

PO2 Skip Kirkwood — Sat, 09 Dec 2017 10:53:35 -0500

They are a rifleman because that's how the Corps defines a rifleman. Being a rifleman does not make someone an infantryman. That's a different skill set.

Response by SP5 Larry Morris made Dec 9 at 2017 2:22 PM

SP5 Larry Morris — Sat, 09 Dec 2017 14:22:31 -0500

it's just a word big deal

Response by MSgt Joseph Kuhn made Oct 19 at 2018 11:22 PM

MSgt Joseph Kuhn — Fri, 19 Oct 2018 23:22:31 -0400

The Marines
Nowadays get more infantry training than in my day. They all go through MCT. Good enough for me.

Response by LtCol Robert Quinter made Oct 20 at 2018 3:40 PM

LtCol Robert Quinter — Sat, 20 Oct 2018 15:40:03 -0400

The "every Marine a rifleman" means more than most have addressed. It also means that you understand how the Corps functions and conducts itself in extreme situations. Read your history books about the Corps. There have been many situations where the "remington raider" or the supply clerk stepped forward and assumed control, effectively using the assets, including personnel, around them to accomplish what had to be done. While you're looking, find the story of the pilot whose helicopter was shot down that assumed command of the infantry and recon Marines in the area and led them for five days against overwhelming odds back to the friendly lines. Could an infantry or recon officer have done better? We'll never know will we, but the guys he got back home had no complaints.

Be proud of what you've learned through your training, but never underestimate the effectiveness or capabilities of the Marine two steps behind you in the chow line.

Response by LTC James Washington made Mar 29 at 2019 12:07 AM

LTC James Washington — Fri, 29 Mar 2019 00:07:17 -0400

Well I don’t know about today but in 1981 I had a retired Marine as an avionics technician who spent most of his military career as a radar repairman. Got levied to Vietnam as an Infantry Platoon Sgt. but spent most of the time as a platoon leader. All he said to me was “Every Marine a rifleman.”

Response by SFC Michael Arabian made Mar 31 at 2019 9:53 AM

SFC Michael Arabian — Sun, 31 Mar 2019 09:53:21 -0400

As someone who served in the Army, I will not even pretend to understand how the Marines do thing, even though my father served for 14 years before dying as a result of Agent Orange. I wasn’t an Infantryman, I served in a supportive roll as a cook. I was trained with my weapon and always told that just because I was a cook didn’t mean that one day I would have to use it, and while deployed during Desert Storm, Iraq and Afghanistan during my time, I willing to bet that my battle buddies didn’t care about what a persons job was when sh_t hit the fan, they just wanted to know would they squeeze the trigger and do what needed to be done

Response by Cpl Rc Layne made Apr 1 at 2019 10:06 AM

Cpl Rc Layne — Mon, 01 Apr 2019 10:06:55 -0400

The key word is basic.

Response by SGT Cary Sledge made Apr 5 at 2019 2:54 PM

SGT Cary Sledge — Fri, 05 Apr 2019 14:54:30 -0400

No. As a former US Army Soldier,I have nothing but respect for Marines. Too many Traditions are being done away with in order to stay "Relevant and or Current". Please! The Corps is indeed the Tip of the Spear, and it is because of their Culture.

Response by SP5 Gary Smith made Aug 15 at 2019 8:24 PM

SP5 Gary Smith — Thu, 15 Aug 2019 20:24:13 -0400

I think you are a pretentious jerk.

Response by LCpl Troy Gwyn made Aug 16 at 2019 2:10 AM

LCpl Troy Gwyn — Fri, 16 Aug 2019 02:10:58 -0400

Go bite a d***! I was an 1100/Utilities, yet still earned a Commedation Medal w/V & a Combat Action Ribbon.

Response by Cpl Eoin Finn made Aug 16 at 2019 11:13 AM

Cpl Eoin Finn — Fri, 16 Aug 2019 11:13:08 -0400

Tell that to the aircraft maintenance Marines of VMA-211 who put some holes in hearts and minds of Taliban asshats in Camp Bastion.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 16 at 2019 11:15 AM

TSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 16 Aug 2019 11:15:58 -0400

Not a Marine so I might be wrong but this is what defines the Marines from the rest.

Response by SGT Jay Carney made Aug 16 at 2019 11:39 AM

SGT Jay Carney — Fri, 16 Aug 2019 11:39:05 -0400

I'm an Army veteran and we were taught you are infantry first and whatever your MOS is secondary

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 16 at 2019 11:42 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 16 Aug 2019 11:42:41 -0400

I agree with you. Granted I was infantry when I started in the army. I changed jobs and heard someone say everyone is infantry first! Nope training is different

Response by Maj Toby B. Plummer made Aug 16 at 2019 12:02 PM

Maj Toby B. Plummer — Fri, 16 Aug 2019 12:02:37 -0400

Absolutely not !

Response by Sgt Peter Schlesiona made Aug 16 at 2019 12:07 PM

Sgt Peter Schlesiona — Fri, 16 Aug 2019 12:07:48 -0400

Take it from this old (RVN - 1967-68) grunt - get your head out of your arrogant 0311 ass. After boot camp and ITR, I went to Supply School and my first “job” was government contract administration in Philadelphia. This was outside my official 3041 MOS. One day, the Corps decided it needed more grunts for the war. After spending a year+ in Supply, I got about 25 days of refresher training and then went straight to ‘Nam as an 0311. I spent my entire 13 month tour, serving in every platoon level position (from fire team leader, to squad leader, to right guide to platoon sgt and, yes, even platoon commander for a brief period after the battle of Dai Do). I remained an 0311 until I separated from the Corps about 9 months after returning from ‘Nam.
I was one of about 2500 Marines who got yanked from other MOSs to serve as grunts. To the best of my knowledge, that was done only one time. The Corps made the BIG mistake of lowering enlistment standards to make up 0311 ranks thereafter and the Corps suffered from that decision for many years after the war.

Response by Sgt Peter Schlesiona made Aug 16 at 2019 12:15 PM

Sgt Peter Schlesiona — Fri, 16 Aug 2019 12:15:39 -0400

Should have added to my previous post: about 10 years ago, I had the pleasure of introducing former CMC, Gen. Carl Mundy, as guest speaker at our annual battalion reunion. He told me afterwards that he was delighted with how I closed out my introduction by referring to him as “a rifleman who found himself wearing 4 stars”.

Response by SSG Roland Shelton made Aug 16 at 2019 12:58 PM

SSG Roland Shelton — Fri, 16 Aug 2019 12:58:22 -0400

No offense is intended toward my Marine Brothers, but the separation between Army any Marines is very little in this regard. Basic Combat Training teaches the soldier basic infantry skills. After basic training and advanced training soldiers still maintain marksmanship and common task training. This maintains at least a level of readiness to perform as a rifleman. I often heard when I was in the Army that every soldier's primary purpose is a rifleman. As an Army infantryman stationed in Korea I recall our mechanics were very gung-ho.

I think it's fine that the Marines maintain that they are all rifleman, but I don't think they own that.I think the Battle of the Bulge illustrates that.

Response by SSgt Stephen Mills made Aug 16 at 2019 1:36 PM

SSgt Stephen Mills — Fri, 16 Aug 2019 13:36:00 -0400

I served as an 0331/0324. I then went USA and USAF. After serving with the other branches, I saw first hand the lack of Infantry training the other Troops get. You can take a Basic Marine, Finance, Cook or Postal Marine, and they understand the workings of Basic Infantry, and can apply it. The other branches don’t have a clue. That’s not the slam them. They do their own MOS well. But you would not want them to augment outside of their own MOS. They don’t get close to enough Rifleman training. You will notice that the Marine Wing has a Cammie covering on the flight helmet. That represents the fact that they are still a Ground Pounder. If they have to punch out, they land as a Rifleman. I understand your pride in being a Grunt, you should. The Corps is a fighting Breed. Every MOS is designed to support the Grunts. Even if that means adding another trained MOS, in the fight because they have the basic Infantry training to do it.

Response by LCpl Larry Morgan made Aug 16 at 2019 1:48 PM

LCpl Larry Morgan — Fri, 16 Aug 2019 13:48:12 -0400

I do not remember any formal "advanced" training or school in 1968 to be an infantryman. You went to Parris Island, then to Lejeune for ITR and then....unless you were going to a school for specialty training, (transport, radio, mortor, etc)......your young butt went to Vietnam and you toted a rifle while visiting with little brown brother. ie: Infantry I guess your advanced training was "on the job" back then.

Response by Cpl Tom Aldridge made Aug 16 at 2019 2:19 PM

Cpl Tom Aldridge — Fri, 16 Aug 2019 14:19:06 -0400

You're f__kin stupid

Response by SP5 Charles Goldsmith made Aug 16 at 2019 2:42 PM

SP5 Charles Goldsmith — Fri, 16 Aug 2019 14:42:48 -0400

When I was in Basic training, Army , every one's PMOS was 11B00. Then your secondary MOS was what you wanted in AIT.

Response by GySgt Jon White made Aug 16 at 2019 8:52 PM

GySgt Jon White — Fri, 16 Aug 2019 20:52:29 -0400

I did a tour on Recruiting back in the 90s. It was my privilege and honor to get to know Major Mike Sayers, USMC (Ret).

He was a Company Commander in Vietnam during some of the worst years. His Company was heavily engaged in the Hill Battles out side if Khe Sanh.

He told me once that during some of the worst of it, he'd taken a lot of casualties, and finally gotten much-needed replacements.......all from the Division Band!

He told me his first thought was "My God, they sent the band!". He also said his expectations were less than optimistic, but damned if the didn't surprise him and make pretty good Grunts when they had too!

Response by SSgt Donald Parsons made Aug 17 at 2019 12:05 AM

SSgt Donald Parsons — Sat, 17 Aug 2019 00:05:33 -0400

Check out the Chosin Reservoir. When the s..t hits the fan you're gonna want to know your weapon. Grunts are a breed apart from the Leave. Semper Fi.

Response by Cpl Michael Mead made Aug 17 at 2019 12:14 AM

Cpl Michael Mead — Sat, 17 Aug 2019 00:14:43 -0400

Every Marine is a rifleman NOT every Marine is an infantryman. No matter your MOS we all go to the range and are expected to be proficient with our weapons. That's one of the things that sets Marines apart from the other branches.

Response by PFC Eric Stosius made Aug 17 at 2019 12:39 AM

PFC Eric Stosius — Sat, 17 Aug 2019 00:39:22 -0400

As a 3381, when the chow hall gets over run, I pick up my rifle. I don't even think 3381 exist any more

Response by SSgt Mark Victor made Aug 17 at 2019 8:26 AM

SSgt Mark Victor — Sat, 17 Aug 2019 08:26:46 -0400

Clearly, you have not looked into the depth, and breadth, of 1) what it takes to be a United States Marine and 2) what the Marine Corps looks like to the rest of the non-Native universe.
It will take just one visit to a range where another branch of service is conducting a rifle qualification for you to fully appreciate the phrase "Every Marine is a Rifleman." As Marines, we are proficient with our individual weapons because we take the time, and we place the emphasis, on every single Marine being able to destroy the enemy in the most practical and cost-efficient manner. Period.
When you observe the other branch of service, while they are on the range, you will quickly begin to realize that they simply cannot shoot. Therefore, your level of tactical confidence for them falls very quickly. In that branch, there is more of an emphasis on them and their "jobs" versus them as a unified, lethal, and efficient organization.
I was an 0311 and then I went on to be an 0311/8654 and finally an 0321. While every Marine is a Rifleman, and every Marine can efficiently and skillfully operate their assigned rifle and pistol, which clearly demonstrates how serious the Corps is about fighting and winning, not every Marine is an infantryman. Rifleman yes. Infantryman no.
As you progress and gain greater knowledge, skill, and responsibilities, you will deepen both your pride, and your confidence in your brother and sister Marines no matter where you go. As Marines, we may not be good in everything, but what we are good in, we are straight-up experts. A single Marine, armed with his or her rifle, or even bare-handed, will completely destroy his or her enemy counterpart, when provided the opportunity to do so. That, my young infantryman brother, is the capability of any individual Marine at anytime.
Now take yourself, and your rifle squad, platoon, and company and see where you stand comparatively with the rest of the Corps: yeah, you and the 03 community are the very pointy, sharp, and deadly tip of a lethal spear.
Carry on.

Response by SSgt Mark Victor made Aug 17 at 2019 8:29 AM

SSgt Mark Victor — Sat, 17 Aug 2019 08:29:45 -0400

Regarding my previous comment: non- Native is supposed to be non-Marine.

Response by GySgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 17 at 2019 10:37 AM

GySgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 17 Aug 2019 10:37:22 -0400

As an artilleryman I served three combat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan. Half the time we were not doing an arty mission but provisional rifle platoon and task force MP mission. There are thousands of Marines that aren’t 0311s that have more trigger time with their rifle in combat than most 0311s nowadays.
Yes, every Marine is a rifleman.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 17 at 2019 10:47 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 17 Aug 2019 10:47:46 -0400

This is a fundamental difference between the USMC and all other branches. I am a retired Army officer, started out as PV1, 11B eventually commissioned as an Engineer officer. I have worked with many Marines over my career. Marines are different from other branches.

Every Soldier, Sailor, Airman or Coastie may qualify with an M4 (or whatever was the standard for your era, .38 special for USAF), but you dont train on Infantry tactics or fieldcraft. Only Marines spend time at an actual Infantry School for non-infantry specialties.

Every Marine IS a rifleman, understand your traditions and what they truly mean.

Semper Fi brothers & sisters

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 17 at 2019 11:52 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 17 Aug 2019 11:52:53 -0400

The Army does not send every soldier to Infantry school the Marine Corps does. You are arguing apples and oranges here. I am a long time Army soldier who has deployed multiple times and I also am in the National Guard. Having dealt with both active Marine and Army units I can tell you the differences and what sets the Marines apart. First they give respect and don’t treat anyone with contempt but the Army does we in the Guard are called the “ Nasty Guard” or all kinds of other derogatory terms by active components. The Marines know their history and heritage the Army barely even knows minimal history and traditions. The Army has changed a lot in my 30 plus years used to be you were a soldier first then your job. Basic infantry soldier skills were expected to be known. I am of the opinion that all soldiers should complete infantry school as do the Marines. Soldiers should know and be taught Army history and for Gods sakes stop coming up with retarded one liners for recruitment. Focus on being warriors and you will get the recruits. The Marines are riflemen we should follow the example not malign it!

Response by Cpl David Moore made Aug 17 at 2019 12:35 PM

Cpl David Moore — Sat, 17 Aug 2019 12:35:25 -0400

I think your full of shit.

Response by SGT Scott Carter made Aug 17 at 2019 3:36 PM

SGT Scott Carter — Sat, 17 Aug 2019 15:36:12 -0400

Of course it doesn’t, any more than someone saying “every soldier is an infantryman”...

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 17 at 2019 5:23 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 17 Aug 2019 17:23:17 -0400

I will disagree with you since I had to pull IA duty during Iraq war. I served next to 0311 and I am an air winger. I did not just do crap details either. I supported 1MarDiv with supply protection and protected EOD when infantry found them. So I had to know basics of tactics, oh and yes an 0311 was assigned to us and he taught us and trained us. So if you have every Marine a chance they will be a riflemen.

Response by SgtMaj Kenneth Dillon made Aug 17 at 2019 5:29 PM

SgtMaj Kenneth Dillon — Sat, 17 Aug 2019 17:29:23 -0400

I have seen admin guys clear bunkers, logistics guys shoot stuff up, so no.

Response by Sgt Michael Cardinale made Aug 17 at 2019 8:24 PM

Sgt Michael Cardinale — Sat, 17 Aug 2019 20:24:36 -0400

My MOS was 2531, Field Radio Operator. Commonly referred to as a battery powered grunt, who deployed with the infantry. I was also awarded expert 6 times (with only iron sights) in 8 years. If that doesn't warrant being called a rifleman nothing does.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 17 at 2019 8:37 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 17 Aug 2019 20:37:46 -0400

You’re an idiot. Even as a winger I had to be proficient with my weapon. Don’t think that just because you are an 03 that there aren’t plenty of badass pog’s that have actively engaged the enemy.

Response by LCpl William White made Aug 17 at 2019 9:57 PM

LCpl William White — Sat, 17 Aug 2019 21:57:31 -0400

We should keep everything the same. Stupid to change it .

Response by LCDR Michael DeShazo made Aug 17 at 2019 11:01 PM

LCDR Michael DeShazo — Sat, 17 Aug 2019 23:01:07 -0400

The phrase speaks to an ethos that is both unique to the Corps, and vital to it. Only by setting the standard that every Marine is a rifleman, and enforcing it, can a small force like the Marine Corps do the job it does with efficiency and effectiveness.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 18 at 2019 2:27 PM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 18 Aug 2019 14:27:08 -0400

Take this into consideration:

I'm an ARNG 31A. I've had a few Soldiers every year that require remedial training on their assigned weapon systems in order to qualify. Even on the AD side, I've gotten reports of plenty of the same in other Combat Support and Service Support branches.

I've never met a Marine, current or currently serving in the Army or ARNG, that needed any form of remedial training or didn't score well when qualifying. I could even say I'm jealous that "every Marine [is] a rifleman," because I cannot be as confident in my Service Support elements as you can be in every Marine you serve with. As stated previously, "not all riflemen are equal," but to say that the slogan "every Marine a riflemen" should be removed is both patently incorrect and insulting yourselves.

Response by Mark Bartholomew made Aug 18 at 2019 4:36 PM

Mark Bartholomew — Sun, 18 Aug 2019 16:36:00 -0400

No, why must every tradition be changed ?

Response by Capt Michael Wilford made Aug 18 at 2019 6:53 PM

Capt Michael Wilford — Sun, 18 Aug 2019 18:53:58 -0400

You are wrong; every Marine is a rifleman. Every Marine is not, however, an infantryman. Knowing the difference between the two is a sign of maturity in the Corps.

Response by SPC Brian Buswell made Aug 19 at 2019 7:08 AM

SPC Brian Buswell — Mon, 19 Aug 2019 07:08:40 -0400

I’m not a marine, but I think I would take some comfort in knowing the guy next to me knew how to shoot if I was getting shot at. I would say in that case, “Well, he’s a rifleman today.”

Response by PFC Darrell Mcphetridge made Aug 19 at 2019 11:22 AM

PFC Darrell Mcphetridge — Mon, 19 Aug 2019 11:22:54 -0400

Everyone is a rifleman if the situation calls for it, whatever your branch of service.

Response by LCpl Jay Thann made Aug 19 at 2019 11:44 AM

LCpl Jay Thann — Mon, 19 Aug 2019 11:44:07 -0400

a basic rifleman is a 0300, and a rifleman in the infantry is 0311.

Response by Sgt Adam Moyer made Aug 19 at 2019 4:05 PM

Sgt Adam Moyer — Mon, 19 Aug 2019 16:05:06 -0400

In 1999, I was told that "Every Marine is a basic rifleman" - the word basic to me is what sets a line from the Rifleman MOS and a Marine who has qualified and is capable of handling a weapon. Suffice to say that since USMC Marksmanship standards for all members are 2nd to no other branch - the statement holds true for me..provided we're still shooting out to 500 yds for qualification on the KD course of fire. As a Combat Arms (but still non-Infantry) MOS, I always worked hard at my shooting skills (and was 2x Rilfe/Pistol Expert) in the hopes that I'd never have to engage, but wanted to be absolutely sure I could put rounds on target, if needed. As long as that same spirit of excellence prevails in our beloved Corps, the rest is semantics for this old salty Devil Dog. Semper Fi, Leathernecks!

Response by Sgt Jerry Kines made Aug 19 at 2019 7:28 PM

Sgt Jerry Kines — Mon, 19 Aug 2019 19:28:05 -0400

Even the cooks in the Corp are trained to be a grunt. If you want this changed, go serve in the Navy

Response by Geo Koois made Aug 19 at 2019 9:00 PM

Geo Koois — Mon, 19 Aug 2019 21:00:47 -0400

How indeed does he define rifleman? According to the sniper/rifleman manual you need to be very talented marksmen and combat Savey operator to qualify

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 19 at 2019 10:12 PM

Cpl Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 19 Aug 2019 22:12:08 -0400

I will answer your question with a question. I'm the driver of the AAV you just got out of. You get pinned down. You want me to grab my rifle out of the rack next to my leg and come help you or get on the horn and call you some professional grunt backup?

Response by LCpl Lewis Malloy made Aug 20 at 2019 12:40 PM

LCpl Lewis Malloy — Tue, 20 Aug 2019 12:40:50 -0400

Leave it alone

Response by LCpl Lewis Malloy made Aug 20 at 2019 12:41 PM

LCpl Lewis Malloy — Tue, 20 Aug 2019 12:41:57 -0400

Leave it alone

Response by SFC Wayne Robinson made Aug 20 at 2019 3:49 PM

SFC Wayne Robinson — Tue, 20 Aug 2019 15:49:51 -0400

Why should one knucklehead get to change a tradition long standing with the Marine corps. Keep the tradition demote the dirtbag.

Response by SgtMaj Anthony Goss made Aug 20 at 2019 3:57 PM

SgtMaj Anthony Goss — Tue, 20 Aug 2019 15:57:32 -0400

Simple answer, NO! And there should be no explanation needed. Trying to change what's not broken will not make it better.

Response by PO2 Patrick Dwyer made Sep 13 at 2019 9:35 AM

PO2 Patrick Dwyer — Fri, 13 Sep 2019 09:35:29 -0400

In the Marines even the Navy Corpsman is trained on various weapons of that particular unit he is attached to. Corpsman need to defend themselves & their wounded. Three years as FMF 8404 with 2nd Mardiv we trained on everything our Marines did. Our proficiency on various weapons may not have been as good as our Marine counterparts but if needed we were ready and conditioned to respond.

Response by Cpl Bill Vandal made Sep 24 at 2019 12:00 AM

Cpl Bill Vandal — Tue, 24 Sep 2019 00:00:30 -0400

I went to Vietnam in November 1966 as a 1371 Combat Engineer in Dong Ha,was sent to Khe Sahn in Feb.1967 and had my MOS changed to 0311 until Aug. 1967 when I became the Khe Sahn Combat Base courier with an MOS 0141 until Nov. 1967.Upon leaving Khe Sahn to return home to El Torro and the USA in Nov. 1967 my MOS was changed back to my original MOS of 1371 Combat Engineer which was my given MOS after completing Combat Engineering school at Camp LeJune in 1966. That said, no matter what your MOS a Marine is always first and formost a rifleman,everything else is secondary.

Response by SSgt Larry King made Sep 26 at 2019 10:29 AM

SSgt Larry King — Thu, 26 Sep 2019 10:29:59 -0400

That is the first and foremost thing a
MARINE should know very Well !
Your Life will depend on itt !

Response by MSgt Jesse Tiede made Sep 26 at 2019 10:54 AM

MSgt Jesse Tiede — Thu, 26 Sep 2019 10:54:34 -0400

I agree with Col Harmon. The primary function of EVERY Marine who puts on a Marine uniform is to stand and fight, and that implies, if not states, a "Rifleman"! And Thank You God, for them, every single one...

Response by Cpl Larry Walls made Sep 26 at 2019 1:58 PM

Cpl Larry Walls — Thu, 26 Sep 2019 13:58:53 -0400

HELL NO!

Response by A1C Charles Hagen made Sep 26 at 2019 9:20 PM

A1C Charles Hagen — Thu, 26 Sep 2019 21:20:18 -0400

Oh hell yes. Even in the Air Force basic training we had to learn how to use an M16 back in the day. I believe this rule should be applied to every service if it isn't already including the Coast Guard

Response by LCpl William Howard made Sep 26 at 2019 9:59 PM

LCpl William Howard — Thu, 26 Sep 2019 21:59:09 -0400

NO,IT SHOULDN'T!!!!

Response by GySgt Richard Morrison made Sep 27 at 2019 1:23 AM

GySgt Richard Morrison — Fri, 27 Sep 2019 01:23:44 -0400

As an 0193 Admin Chief (Remington Raider), I took pride in my being able to go to the Range and shoot Expert (6th Award) during my 20 year career. And that includes 2 tours at HQMC and 2 years at MarDet, USDB, Ft Leavenworth, KS. That's 10 yrs no Rifle Range. And if I couldn't hit the target with my rifle I could always fall back on my secondary MOS of 0353 (ONTOS Crewman) and throw 106 rounds at them! Semper Fi. GySgt USMC (RET) '65-'85.

Response by SSgt Dee O'Connor made Sep 27 at 2019 2:16 AM

SSgt Dee O'Connor — Fri, 27 Sep 2019 02:16:31 -0400

Dont change it

Response by SN Jay Perry made Sep 28 at 2019 10:45 AM

SN Jay Perry — Sat, 28 Sep 2019 10:45:37 -0400

I am not a marine. Never was a marine. But I did serve on tin cans in the usn. Do to normal crewing standards in the US and when I was aboard. There were times when all hands were required to do things. Floating groceries aboard literally would have a 30 to hand working party. The ship's basic load of ammo was all hands unless you were wearing khaki! One of the funniest things in the world was to watch Andy Sixx have to go work for any three or four! They would spend 10 minutes arguing seniority over which E6 was in charge and then he for who would actually called where the working party would walk by and say I don't care go put on a pair of slick sleeves, no stripes, and come back and let's get to work! The manual labor equivalent of every Marine is a Rifleman...

Response by SSgt Russell Stevens made Sep 29 at 2019 2:00 AM

SSgt Russell Stevens — Sun, 29 Sep 2019 02:00:27 -0400

Every member of DOD should be proficient in the use of weapons, sadly that isn't reality. I personally would have like to been allowed to go to the firing range a lot more often than once a year, and ended up going to the civilian ranges to do just that. I never saw more than a handful of military people on the range and when it was time for combat I saw even fewer that knew one end of a rifle from the other.

I was in the Air Force and when it came time to shoot at an enemy and I ended up surprising a lot of Marines. What I observed was Marine "spray and pray" resulting in very few enemy casualties, where I put down an enemy uniform with every shot. In my view a rifleman hits the target so who says every Marine is a rifleman?

Response by LTC John Wilson made Sep 29 at 2019 5:28 PM

LTC John Wilson — Sun, 29 Sep 2019 17:28:18 -0400

In a one way I agree with your statement. All Marines are trained to be sharp shooters! They all must be qualified with a rifle. The combat support troops will never be as good as infantry, because they don’t train like infantry. However when in need they have the basics to supplement the Infantry. Which has worked well when these support personnel during the Korean and Vietnam. Many of our brother or sister services do not qualify their personnel to support themselves in a defensive position.

Response by SGT Charles Bartell made Oct 13 at 2019 2:44 PM

SGT Charles Bartell — Sun, 13 Oct 2019 14:44:01 -0400

Agreed just because they are up on their marksmanship does not mean they can be put in Infantry positions in which they had a small amount of training at some time in the past does not make them qualified.
In fact I think that would make things more of a security risk.
I am sure you all remember hand to hand combat training in basic.
Then there was always at least one dumbass that thought that made them a expert in fighting.
The same results you know just enough to get there ass handed to them.
The Army used to say train like you fight, Not bring in the troops that do not know how to fight.
Just my thoughts.

Response by CW3 Harvey K. made Oct 13 at 2019 3:36 PM

CW3 Harvey K. — Sun, 13 Oct 2019 15:36:35 -0400

My brother was a career Marine who served in Korea. He was a proud expert rifleman, and at the time a Gunny with a personnel MOS. When the Chicom army crossed the Yalu River, he was among the many POGs pressed into action as infantry.
He had a twisted right pinky finger, where he caught a fragment while in a firefight. He pulled it out with his teeth and resumed firing his M-1.
He considered that "wound" too slight for a Purple Heart. I leave to your imagination his reaction to Sen. Kerry and his "three Purple Hearts" without so much as a light duty chit for his "wounds".

Response by CW4 Craig Urban made Oct 14 at 2019 2:36 AM

CW4 Craig Urban — Mon, 14 Oct 2019 02:36:07 -0400

Every marine is a rifleman. I should have joined he marines.

Response by CW4 Craig Urban made Oct 14 at 2019 2:36 AM

CW4 Craig Urban — Mon, 14 Oct 2019 02:36:35 -0400

I am a black belt.

Response by CW4 Craig Urban made Oct 14 at 2019 2:36 AM

CW4 Craig Urban — Mon, 14 Oct 2019 02:36:49 -0400

And a QM

Response by CW4 Craig Urban made Oct 14 at 2019 2:39 AM

CW4 Craig Urban — Mon, 14 Oct 2019 02:39:08 -0400

politics my ass. Get out of Afgan. Get out off all those rag head wars. One more soldier gets killed and it is you Nancy

Response by Cpl Gabriel F. made Oct 14 at 2019 2:28 PM

Cpl Gabriel F. — Mon, 14 Oct 2019 14:28:36 -0400

Negative. Not being paid to disagree. The reason every Marine sick, lame or lazy must complete rifle qualification. "Every Marine a Rifleman" This is my rifle, there are many like it, this one is mine ...

Response by PVT Mark Zehner made Oct 14 at 2019 2:48 PM

PVT Mark Zehner — Mon, 14 Oct 2019 14:48:23 -0400

No problem the way things are!

Response by Sgt Gary P. Reid made Oct 14 at 2019 3:20 PM

Sgt Gary P. Reid — Mon, 14 Oct 2019 15:20:04 -0400

If you ever read up on the Chosan Resavoir, you understand why ever Marine is a Rifleman, there was a time when it didn't take thousand of rounds per kill, we were good shots with good weapons.

Response by GySgt Richard James made Oct 14 at 2019 10:57 PM

GySgt Richard James — Mon, 14 Oct 2019 22:57:54 -0400

Lcpl. Tad Cunningham.....What were you taught and trained in Marine Corps Recruit Training? You need to suck it up and face the real fact that “Every Marine Is A Rifleman”.....I see you require some adjustment training Marine. “Semper Fi”

Response by GySgt Thomas Vick made Oct 15 at 2019 12:45 PM

GySgt Thomas Vick — Tue, 15 Oct 2019 12:45:23 -0400

Absolutely Not Every Marine is trained as a rifleman first, and then given the opportunity to prove that he can do something else.

Response by SGT Randall Smith made Oct 15 at 2019 1:34 PM

SGT Randall Smith — Tue, 15 Oct 2019 13:34:00 -0400

Things may have changed in the military since I got out. But in Jan of 1968 when we had VC at the wire we also had cooks, truck drivers, clerks and radio operators in ditches and bunkers shooting them off the wire. We were not 11B's so if one of us got wounded there was no Purple Heart. But we still got shot at and wounded. So for a couple of weeks we were all riflemen.
I remember when at Ft. Bliss for Basic in 1966 a sign over a gate said, " Through these gates pass the worlds best soldiers". It did not say cooks, clerks , tankers or infantrymen. We were Soldiers and graduated with pride. If you never got shot or shot at great. If you never had to defend a position then you are lucky. But you did train for that and never forget. Not every name on the wall belonged to a infantry soldier.

Response by CW3 Walter Goerner made Oct 19 at 2019 11:00 AM

CW3 Walter Goerner — Sat, 19 Oct 2019 11:00:10 -0400

Every MOS's job ties into the whole. Whether you're primary is an 11B in the Army or a 0311 in the Marines they depend on other specialists to have their backs so that they can do their jobs and vice versa. Know and DO your job so others don't have to! There are "Common Skills" and "Primary Skills". Know them BOTH. Be proficient in BOTH.

Response by PV2 Glen Lewis made Oct 19 at 2019 12:55 PM

PV2 Glen Lewis — Sat, 19 Oct 2019 12:55:45 -0400

No,

Response by Cpl Amilcar Mendieta made Oct 20 at 2019 10:55 AM

Cpl Amilcar Mendieta — Sun, 20 Oct 2019 10:55:28 -0400

Absolutely nothing has changed in 200 plus years a marine is a rifleman before he is anything else if that wasn't the case then why have boot camp!

Response by Cpl John David Fenner made Oct 20 at 2019 2:04 PM

Cpl John David Fenner — Sun, 20 Oct 2019 14:04:54 -0400

Marines were and always will be riflemen first. Stop trying to be PC with my Marine Corps.

Response by CWO4 Ray Fairman made Oct 20 at 2019 4:13 PM

CWO4 Ray Fairman — Sun, 20 Oct 2019 16:13:44 -0400

Why Yes, of course, as soon as someone can convince me that "Semper Fidelis" and the USMC should be replaced by some more politically correct organization.

Response by Lt Col John (Jack) Christensen made Oct 20 at 2019 5:37 PM

Lt Col John (Jack) Christensen — Sun, 20 Oct 2019 17:37:04 -0400

Well every member of the Air Force isn't a flyer, so I agree with you.

Response by Maj Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 20 at 2019 6:08 PM

Maj Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 20 Oct 2019 18:08:47 -0400

We are confusing the term rifleman and infantryman as the latter indicates more advanced training. All Marines are basic riflemen and all Marine Officers are trained as Rifle Platoon Leaders as the 6 months spent at TBS is almost all focused on combat arms training.

Response by MGySgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 20 at 2019 9:42 PM

MGySgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 20 Oct 2019 21:42:50 -0400

11th Marines deployed units as provisional rifle plts to Afghanistan and a Sgt earned a Navy Cross for his actions. Isn’t the first time a non-03 received an award for actions that sound very infantry-ish.

Response by Cpl William Sweet made Oct 21 at 2019 9:52 AM

Cpl William Sweet — Mon, 21 Oct 2019 09:52:48 -0400

Every Marine is a rifleman. Why should that change? if one does not like it they can join the Navy or the Air Force. The United States Marine Corps is the personal guard of the President of the United States. They can be sent without congressional approval. We can never know what may happen in the world or in our own country. Why should the Marine corps not be prepared with everyone being qualified?

Response by CPL Donald Meseth made Oct 21 at 2019 5:59 PM

CPL Donald Meseth — Mon, 21 Oct 2019 17:59:59 -0400

I always thought that EVERY serviceman was expected to serve as a rifleman when the need arose...but then I'm 86 years old, and from the "old school"!

Response by Sgt Ronald Paden made Oct 28 at 2019 6:05 PM

Sgt Ronald Paden — Mon, 28 Oct 2019 18:05:51 -0400

That statement is true throughout the military services an Air Force cook is a "rifleman" if the need arises. Everyone has a specific skill but all are required to take up arms when needed. That saying doesn’t mean everyone has the same skill level a dedicated rifleman, that has a much more in-depth knowledge of combat tactics. When I was in Iraq our FOB had Army, Navy and Air Force on perimeter protection and fire teams.

Response by LCpl Kareem Dixon made Nov 1 at 2019 10:13 PM

LCpl Kareem Dixon — Fri, 01 Nov 2019 22:13:03 -0400

No!

Response by Sgt Jmeans M made Nov 3 at 2019 11:18 AM

Sgt Jmeans M — Sun, 03 Nov 2019 11:18:49 -0500

I got Mitchell Paige MOH winner to talk to Div Schools Camp Pendleton, Read his account I remember his telling us to his machine guns Right flank was C company to his Right was mostly the BAND, I cant remember why there was Band there but There was. In the Defense of Henderson Field the Right flank moved back Exposing Paige's machine guns. During the fight that night twice over run, being knocked out by grenades each time, I will Not Repeat what his opinion of that Company on the Right. But he was Liberal in his praise to the USMC BAND they stuck with him....THE BAND.

So your God Damm Right EVERY MARINE IS A RIFLEMAN!

The Army does boot camp and after sends you to what ever MOS School you signed for. In the Wy. Army Nat Guard, We were getting newbies that had no idea of what the hell was their MOS was after boot camp they were told that their Unit would train them We were a HIMAR unit, MLRS, and we got them knowing only how to wear a uniform and recognize ranks.

Response by SGT Kenny Hutton made Nov 3 at 2019 12:23 PM

SGT Kenny Hutton — Sun, 03 Nov 2019 12:23:19 -0500

Don’t just throw a stupid question up here without the courage to spit out your truth. Give us your idea of what it should be if we are to depart from common sense and tradition.

Response by CPT Brian Reiss made Nov 3 at 2019 8:23 PM

CPT Brian Reiss — Sun, 03 Nov 2019 20:23:03 -0500

It is a known fact that when the sh** hits the fan it is everyone on line I was an Army Aviator but when the VC came calling if we weren't flying, we drew weapons and filled in the places between our bunkers. The Marines have always been riflemen from there very start aboard Navy ships. Sounds like someone wants to get off the firing line? Cooks can be cooks and clerks can be clerks but when the enemy is in the wire you better hope you have a weapon!

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 7 at 2019 3:43 PM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 07 Nov 2019 15:43:20 -0500

No way the Marines are a brotherhood and tradition matters that's why they are the best and the most close net group I have ever seen.

Response by Tom Robertson made Nov 13 at 2019 6:36 PM

Tom Robertson — Wed, 13 Nov 2019 18:36:05 -0500

In nam it was the office pogies that repelled breakthroughs
03s manned the perimeter while admin crew set up internal fox holes
The army has to waste manpower for just in case situations
It's also about knowing that every marine has your back . Even if they are a trumpet player

Response by PO2 John Driskill made Nov 16 at 2019 12:47 PM

PO2 John Driskill — Sat, 16 Nov 2019 12:47:07 -0500

Read a few history books on WW2 and the Vietnam War, where cooks and others support troops had to take up weapons when the shite hit the fan. They had to become riflemen.

Response by Cpl Tyler Therrien made Nov 17 at 2019 5:25 PM

Cpl Tyler Therrien — Sun, 17 Nov 2019 17:25:44 -0500

Every marine is a rifleman, i think you are referring to the training that an infantryman receives which is far more in depth than I as an avionics tech would have received. But every Marine is 1st and foremost a rifleman

Response by Sgt Chris Fisher made Dec 13 at 2019 11:18 AM

Sgt Chris Fisher — Fri, 13 Dec 2019 11:18:42 -0500

Every Marine is a Rifleman, not all Marines are Grunts. Semper Fi

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 13 at 2019 9:07 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 13 Dec 2019 21:07:07 -0500

Disagree with u. Why? Well at least in the Marines and the Army one of the 1st things they train u to us is a rifle. REALLY in those to branches of service that IS ur primary MOS. Now After Basic u go onto more specialized training which is normally called ur PMOS. But when push comes to shove u pick up ur weapon and use it unless u like to be dead.
And as I remember When u got issued ur Weapon they made u treat it better than ur Girlfriend or wife. I have seen DI's make a person kiss then weapon when they dropped it every time they went down doing push ups. and u had better never let anything but the butt of the weapon touch the ground other than certain handling drills. The only other exception to this was when they taught u a couple ways to move on the belly with the weapon and then at no time was the barrel allowed to touch the ground.

Be proud of what u are but I think ur being very petty and NOT recognizing that ALL of ur buddies in the Marines just like in the Army (navy and AF I have no clue and really do not care) have to qualify every year and have to know how to tear the weapon down and clean it and put it back together. U may have some extra skills they do not have cause of ur MOS but we all carry in combat and I am not going to say HEY RIFLEMAN they are shooting at me DO UR MOS. Heck NO I AM RETURNING FIRE after taking cover.. Like it or not what my dad who served 22+ years and two wars said.CYOA Cover Your OWN A**. I want to know I can trust the person to the left and right, front and back but the one that is most responsible for keeping ME alive is ME. And in doing so I look out for those around me. Cause the people trying to kill me are also trying to kill them and the more numbers we keep alive and healthy the better off our FORCES ARE.

Response by Sgt Dale Briggs made Feb 7 at 2020 1:38 PM

Sgt Dale Briggs — Fri, 07 Feb 2020 13:38:27 -0500

It’s still true imo. Everyone shoots to qualify every year, still a fact regardless of MOS. If your at FOB and it comes under attack everyone grabs their rifle, and I would assume goes to their assigned defensive position. It was true at the beginning it’s still true today.

Response by Cpl Christopher Bishop made Feb 7 at 2020 1:59 PM

Cpl Christopher Bishop — Fri, 07 Feb 2020 13:59:22 -0500

As a former Marine 0351 (Dragon, that was before the Javelin for you youngsters)...

And with all due respect...

There are always great, good, mediocre, questionable Marines within every MOS.

There are some POGs who could figure out “how to Rifleman” if need be better than some of the 0311s whom are in the last bucket “how did they even get through Boot Camp?” with higher GT scores (ASVAB).

Boot Camp made a Marine. MCT gave some very basic Infantry training to every Marine. That supports the “Every Marine Is A Rifleman” bit.

Being a Marine does not need embelishment. How about you just lay your head down knowing you can eat an Army 11-B for breakfast? Or do you really need the Corps to issue you the equivalent of the Army’s Blue Cord so you can look down at it to remind yourself who you are?

Back in my day, a Marine entering on a “Guaranteed 0300 Infantry” contract would be assigned MOS by their GT score. 0311 is at the very bottom of that bracketing.

I get it to a point. You want to believe as a Grunt you are somehow better than the POGs. Certainly much of Infantry life training is about Confidence Building. Whatever helps Infantry win battles is all good. But stop the nonsense of the POG vs Grunt crap. Not all POGs “can’t” do your job with any lesser degree of skill than you can do theirs. They too Earned the Title. They simply chose to support you instead of be you. And without them, you aren’t even geared up to do a damn thing.

Try focusing on the Marine you see in your mirror each morning.

Pain is temporary...Pride is permanent.

So unless you have perfect PFT, minimum WS-1 Swim Qual, Expert Marksmanship Badge (ironic some Riflemen don’t go figure), etc....then you got work to do. Don’t think there aren’t at least a few POGs around that do have those things. Not to mention some of them are re-enlisted from the Infantry.

SEE...LOOKIE HERE....a Grunt who appreciated his POGs!!!

<sits up from chair, upturns table with papers and clipboards flying everywhere, steps outside the hatch, pokes his head back in and says Hey there Lance Cooley, how about picking that mess up??!!

Semper Fi

Response by CPT David Geasland made Feb 7 at 2020 3:02 PM

CPT David Geasland — Fri, 07 Feb 2020 15:02:50 -0500

Never heard of Frozen Chosen, I guess.

Response by CPT David Geasland made Feb 7 at 2020 3:03 PM

CPT David Geasland — Fri, 07 Feb 2020 15:03:28 -0500

Guess he never heard of Frozen Chosen

Response by Cpl Rc Layne made Feb 7 at 2020 6:32 PM

Cpl Rc Layne — Fri, 07 Feb 2020 18:32:44 -0500

I think it would be more appropriate to say that every Marine is a basically trained Rifleman.

Response by LtCol Steve Franks made Feb 7 at 2020 6:44 PM

LtCol Steve Franks — Fri, 07 Feb 2020 18:44:11 -0500

Every Marine is a rifleman is a true statement....

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 8 at 2020 7:59 AM

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 08 Feb 2020 07:59:51 -0500

If you're a Marine you are a Rifleman. That was true in 1775 and it's true today.

Response by Sgt Dale Briggs made Mar 12 at 2020 6:40 PM

Sgt Dale Briggs — Thu, 12 Mar 2020 18:40:59 -0400

Every Marine is a rifleman. It might not be a primary MOS, but it’s still applicable. I get most don’t ruck up every week or every month, but as long as it’s required to know how to handle your rifle it applies.

Response by LCpl Mark Riley made Mar 13 at 2020 8:51 AM

LCpl Mark Riley — Fri, 13 Mar 2020 08:51:51 -0400

Hell fix/(ing no

Response by Sgt George Lawrence made Mar 13 at 2020 8:45 PM

Sgt George Lawrence — Fri, 13 Mar 2020 20:45:39 -0400

LCpl, I have decided to try to comment in a positive fashion, omitting the language that I hope is still acceptable in my beloved Marine Corps, but which perhaps may be unacceptable in this forum. To do away with what you suggest, I can't even repeat it, would have John Basilone, Chesty Puller, even R. Lee Ermy turning over in their graves. Good Lord, boy, if we no longer consider every Marine a rifleman, we may as well just do away with the Corps itself, or worse...make it part of the Army. And at the very least, our motto would morph into Sometimes Fidelis 'cause our cooks and communicators and supply clerks and motor transport personnel and...well you get the idea...no longer can be called upon to come to the aid of what you consider the true grunts, our 0300s. We're all 0300s in spirit and in practice when necessary. Geez, I've got to quit voicing my opinion after a couple glasses of wine. Just pulling your leg, LCpl. Semper Fi.

Response by SSG Steve Chesney made May 30 at 2021 11:07 PM

SSG Steve Chesney — Sun, 30 May 2021 23:07:11 -0400

For my MOS was Ch53 Helicopter Crew Chief. If I had been shot down on a mission my weapon would have been an M16 and Thats why I thank the USMC for the training on so many weapons!!!!

Response by Sgt Dale Briggs made Jan 26 at 2022 11:44 AM

Sgt Dale Briggs — Wed, 26 Jan 2022 11:44:56 -0500

Every Marines a rifleman no matter the MOS, regardless every Marine spends two weeks at the range then qualifies. Regardless of your MOS and your sitting at a FOB in some shit hole and the base gets hit, you grab your rifle and go to your assigned position. Your now a rifleman, it’s basically a given secondary MOS, you have the ability to save your life or perhaps another. Can other branches say that?

Response by SFC Joe Ping made Jan 27 at 2022 10:28 AM

SFC Joe Ping — Thu, 27 Jan 2022 10:28:02 -0500

We are not the Army. Leave the Corps alone

Response by Sgt George Lawrence made Jan 29 at 2022 6:31 PM

Sgt George Lawrence — Sat, 29 Jan 2022 18:31:22 -0500

Every Marine may not be an infantryman, but every Marine is, was, and always with be, a rifleman.