1RECON MARINE

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Branch

U.S. Marine Corps

Members

About 1RECON MARINE

**1RECON MARINE** is a designation often associated with the elite 1st Reconnaissance Battalion of the United States Marine Corps. Established in World War II, the battalion quickly earned a reputation for its expertise in amphibious reconnaissance and deep reconnaissance missions behind enemy lines. Throughout its history, 1st Recon Marines have played pivotal roles in major conflicts, including the Vietnam War, Operation Desert Storm, and the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, where their stealth, intelligence gathering, and combat skills have been crucial. The unit continues to serve as the Marine Corps’ premier reconnaissance force, specializing in special operations, surveillance, and direct action missions worldwide.

Unit Members

Stephen Herron

U.S. Marine Corps

1RECON MARINEView Profile

David Mccarter

U.S. Marine Corps

1RECON MARINEView Profile

Photos

U.S. Navy • 1964

U.S. Marine Corps • 1944

U.S. Army

Paperwork even in war

U.S. Marine Corps • 1967

About 1RECON MARINE

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Elite Force: 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, known as "1st Recon" or "1st RECON MARINE," is one of the most elite reconnaissance units of the United States Marine Corps, specializing in advanced scouting, intelligence gathering, and special operations. • World War II Origins: The unit traces its origins to World War II, when Marine reconnaissance units supported amphibious landings and intelligence missions in the Pacific Theater. • Vietnam War Legacy: 1st Recon Marines earned a reputation for conducting deep reconnaissance and direct action missions behind enemy lines, often operating in small teams in hostile territory. • Famed "Recon Teams": During the Vietnam War, small "Recon Teams" of 4-6 Marines would be inserted by helicopter deep into enemy-held territory for days at a time to observe and report on enemy activity. • Operation Iraqi Freedom: 1st Recon played a crucial role during the 2003 invasion of Iraq, conducting long-range reconnaissance, raids, and securing key objectives ahead of the main force. • Inspiration for "Generation Kill": The battalion's actions during the Iraq War were documented in the book and HBO miniseries "Generation Kill," which follows Marines from 1st Recon during the initial invasion of Iraq. • Rigorous Selection and Training: Marines selected for 1st Recon undergo intensive training, including the Basic Reconnaissance Course (BRC), Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape (SERE) School, and advanced parachuting and diving courses. • Motto and Insignia: The unit's motto is "Swift, Silent, Deadly," reflecting their stealth and lethality. Their insignia features a black diamond with a gold parachute and a "Recon Jack" skull. • Notable Operations: 1st Recon has participated in many notable operations, including Operation Desert Storm, Operation Enduring Freedom (Afghanistan), and humanitarian missions worldwide. • Brotherhood and Esprit de Corps: Veterans of 1st Recon maintain a strong sense of brotherhood, with annual reunions and an active alumni association supporting current and former members.