Marines
Marines, originally referred to as "soldiers of the sea," have a rich history dating back to the ancient Greek and Roman navies, where they engaged in combat from ships. Over the centuries, various European navies incorporated soldiers on warships, enabling them to fight during close-quarters battles and participate in landing operations. By the twentieth century, marines became particularly known for their role in amphibious operations, playing a crucial part in World War II. The U.S. Marine Corps, in particular, is recognized for its versatility and preparedness for diverse combat scenarios, including land and aerial warfare. It is one of the largest air forces globally, continuing to uphold its traditional amphibious warfare role while also adapting to modern combat needs. Other countries' marine forces have developed into specialized units, such as commandos and naval raiders, with some focusing on specific warfare environments, like arctic combat. The historical significance and evolving roles of marines reflect their importance in naval military operations across different nations.
Subject Terms
Marines
Literally and originally, “soldiers of the sea.” Marines first served in combat in the ancient Greek and Roman navies, hurling rocks, flaming projectiles, spears and arrows at enemy galleys while sailors or slaves guided the ship. During the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, many European nations stocked their warships with soldiers who could discharge musketry and hurl grenades during close-quarters fighting with other vessels as well as serve as an integral part of landing parties. By the twentieth century, marines were especially associated with the latter duty. Marines played a significant role in amphibious operations in all theaters of World War II (1939–1945).
In the post-war period, marine forces displayed varying developmental patterns. Marines in the Netherlands, France, and Great Britain, for instance, fell into the relatively limited role of “commandos” or naval raiders (though the British and Dutch marines also specialize in arctic warfare). The United States Marine Corps is one of the most versatile. While maintaining their traditional role in amphibious warfare, U.S. marine units are well-prepared for land and aerial combat. The U.S. Marine Corps maintains one of the ten largest air forces in the world.