Protecting American embassies and consulates across the globe, members of the Marine Security Guard Battalion are ambassadors in blue who are considered some of the brightest and best the Corps has to offer. About 1,200 men and women are assigned across the world to the Marine Security Guard. Those numbers will grow in the next few years as the United States opens more embassies and consulates.
Marine Security Guards protect their post 24 hours a day, seven days a week. In addition to providing security for the diplomatic posts, Marine Security Guards also provide security for visiting dignitaries, U.S. citizens and well as U.S.Government property. They will also work to prevent the compromise of classified material and equipment.
Marine Securty Guards regularly practice "reaction drills" in case of fire, intruders or angry mobs. However, they are not intended to be a fighting force capable of holding out against a hostile population or army. They are generally only supplied with light weapons: shotguns, 9 mm pistols, revolvers, tear gas canisters and smoke grenades.
According to regulations, the Blue Dress D uniform may be prescribed by local commands authorized to wear the Blue uniform. Usually the Blue uniform is worn as a duty uniform in summer and is not authorized for wear off-base. The Dress C uniform is similar to the D, but uses long sleeve khaki shirt with a tie. |
