Why do you never see marines wearing swords?

Ashley Pierce — Sat, 25 Jul 2020 08:04:09 -0400

I am a civilian but I enjoy reading your post on here. But I have a couple of questions. Is there a certain rank that marines can wear a sword and is the sword optional? Why do you never see a marine wearing a sword in their dress blues in the real world?

Response by LtCol Robert Quinter made Jul 25 at 2020 9:46 AM

LtCol Robert Quinter — Sat, 25 Jul 2020 09:46:31 -0400

Swords are worn by Marines based upon their assigned positions in ceremonial situations. All officers are required to own their own "Mameluke" sword and while many SNCOs and NCOs own their own sword modeled on U.S. Army M1850 foot officers' sword introduced in 1859, with significant modifications in 1875, 1918. If an NCO or SNCO does not own his sword, units have them in stock as organizational equipment.
If you desire to see them in use, google "USMC Evening Parade" and watch any of the videos. Better yet, look at the evening parade schedule and attend the Parade in Washington DC. It is an inspiring and entertaining event, free admission.

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Jul 25 at 2020 11:30 PM

SGM Bill Frazer — Sat, 25 Jul 2020 23:30:34 -0400

You see NCO's and officers wear them at formal events and parades. Check out the Fri
day evening Color formation ceremony at 8th & I- USMC HQ.

Response by Maj John Bell made Jul 26 at 2020 12:50 AM

Maj John Bell — Sun, 26 Jul 2020 00:50:16 -0400

At The Basic School, (A course all Marine 2ndLt's attend) I remember a video clip of a search and destroy mission in Vietnam. In the middle of it all is some Lt with a Sam Brown Belt over his sateens and a a mameluke sword drawn as he goes through the doorway of a hut. We all laughed and watched that short segment two more times.

In my day, most Marine officers swords are ceremonial and not really a weapon, they didn't even have a sharpened edge. The ceremonial swords were about $600 in the early 80's. My Dad sent to the English Sword maker Wilkinson, and bought me and edged Wilkinson that was weapon quality. I think he paid around $3000, plus shipping.

At the first sword manual class, I was told, "Nice sword, don't bring it to class again." So I have two swords.

Response by Ashley Pierce made Jul 26 at 2020 4:08 AM

Ashley Pierce — Sun, 26 Jul 2020 04:08:07 -0400

Thank you everyone for the informative comments. Also thanks for what you all have done for us!