About this Unit
The United States Army Marksmanship Unit (USAMU) was established in 1956 at Fort Benning, Georgia, by order of President Dwight D. Eisenhower in response to the Soviet Union’s dominance in international shooting competitions. The unit’s mission is to enhance Army marksmanship, develop small arms innovations, and represent the U.S. in national and international shooting events. Over the years, USAMU athletes have won numerous Olympic and world championship medals, contributing significantly to the Army’s prestige. Additionally, USAMU serves as a training resource, sharing marksmanship expertise with soldiers across the Army and supporting recruiting efforts through public demonstrations and competitions.
Historical Facts
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Founding Purpose: The U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit (USAMU) was established in 1956 by President Dwight D. Eisenhower to raise marksmanship standards throughout the U.S. Army and to compete in international shooting competitions, particularly in the wake of the Soviet Union's dominance in shooting events at the Olympics.
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Olympic Champions: USAMU has produced over 20 Olympians and has contributed to dozens of Olympic and world championship medals for Team USA, making it a critical incubator for elite competitive shooters.
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Unit Motto: The USAMU’s motto is “Home of Champions,” reflecting its dual mission of winning competitions and training the highest caliber shooters for the Army.
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Weapons Development: USAMU gunsmiths and armorers have contributed to the design and refinement of several Army weapons, including competition and sniper rifles, influencing broader military small arms development.
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Public Demonstrations: The USAMU regularly gives public marksmanship demonstrations and exhibitions, showcasing shooting skills and promoting Army values to civilian audiences.
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Training the Force: Besides competition, the unit plays a major role in training Army units and soldiers in advanced marksmanship, sniper operations, and firearms safety.
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International Reputation: USAMU members have competed in virtually every major international shooting competition, earning respect and recognition from military and civilian shooting communities worldwide.
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Female Trailblazers: In 2016, SSG Ashley Carroll became the first female shotgun shooter from the USAMU to make the U.S. Olympic Team, marking a significant milestone for women in military marksmanship.
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Custom Gunsmithing: The unit’s Precision Weapons Shop not only maintains competition firearms but also builds custom sniper rifles and pistols for use by Army and special operations marksmen.
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Location: USAMU is headquartered at Fort Moore (formerly Fort Benning), Georgia, the home of the Army’s Infantry and Armor Schools, making it a central hub for military marksmanship excellence.
