Maritime Raid Force - 31st MEU - Security Platoon

A Marine with the security platoon with the 31st MEU's Maritime Raid Force (MRF) mans a M240G 7.62mm x 51mm medium machine gun fitted with a night scope during a training mission.

The security platoon, also called the trailer platoon, is vital element of the 31st MEU's Maritime Raid Force.

Composed of select infantry Marines drawn from the MEU, the security platoon is deployed on MRF raids to secure the perimeter of the objective, containing the enemy inside and preventing reinforcements from interfering.

The security platoon will typically deploy after the amphibious reconnaissance platoon (ARP), drawn from the MEU's attached Battalion Recon contingent, have covertly infiltrated the objective and placed it under surveillance.

Once given the go-ahead by the ARP, the security platoon comes in and establishes a protective screen around the objective, while the assault element, comprised of the MEU's force recon platoon, carry out their mission inside.