2nd FAST

• Origin and Meaning: The 2nd FAST (Fleet Anti-terrorism Security Team) Company is a specialized unit of the United States Marine Corps, formed in 1987 to provide rapid deployment security forces to protect vital naval and national assets worldwide. • Primary Mission: 2nd FAST specializes in anti-terrorism and physical security missions, including the protection of U.S. embassies, nuclear submarines, and critical military installations. • Global Reach: 2nd FAST Marines have deployed to over 50 countries, often on short notice, supporting both combat and humanitarian operations. • Beirut Barracks Bombing Influence: The creation of FAST units was largely influenced by the 1983 Beirut barracks bombing, leading to a recognized need for specialized quick-response forces. • Rigorous Training: FAST Marines undergo advanced Close Quarters Battle (CQB), urban combat, non-lethal weapons, and security operations training, making them among the most highly trained security forces in the USMC. • Operation Sharp Edge: In 1990, FAST Marines played a key role in Operation Sharp Edge, evacuating U.S. citizens from Liberia during civil unrest. • Embassy Reinforcements: 2nd FAST is frequently tasked with reinforcing embassies during threats, notably deploying to Yemen, Libya, and Egypt during high-tension periods in the 2010s. • Unit Motto: The FAST Company motto is "Facta Non Verba," which is Latin for "Deeds, Not Words," reflecting their action-oriented mission. • Special Equipment: FAST Marines are equipped with advanced weaponry and technology, including M4 carbines, M203 grenade launchers, and state-of-the-art surveillance gear. • Headquarters: 2nd FAST Company is based at Naval Weapons Station Yorktown, Virginia, and is part of the Marine Corps Security Force Regiment.