Marine Force Reconnaissance

Force Reconnaissance Marines fire M4a1 carbines while advancing towards targets at a range aboard USS Iwo Jima.

Marine Force Recon are specialist reconnaissance and direct action operatives assigned to Force Reconnaissance Companies within USMC Reconnaissance Battalions.

Force Recon typically operate away from the main elements of their assigned Marine Air Ground Task Force (MAGTF).

They are highly trained in covert surveillance and intelligence gathering.

Unless carrying out direct action missions, Force Recon Marines are trained to avoid direct contact with the enemy but maintain a high level of infantry skills such as counter-ambush techniques.