Fleet Marine Force

• Origins in the 1930s: The Fleet Marine Force (FMF) was officially established in 1933 to provide the U.S. Navy with a permanent, ready amphibious force of Marines for operations with the fleet. • World War II Role: FMF units were the primary assault force in the Pacific theater, conducting iconic landings at Guadalcanal, Tarawa, Iwo Jima, and Okinawa. • Distinctive Insignia: FMF-qualified Navy personnel (hospital corpsmen, chaplains, and dental techs) earn the unique Fleet Marine Force Warfare Device, symbolizing their integration with Marine units. • Amphibious Warfare Pioneers: FMF Marines developed and perfected amphibious assault tactics and technology, influencing military doctrine worldwide. • FMF vs. Other Marine Forces: Unlike other Marine Corps units, FMF is specifically organized, trained, and equipped to operate as part of the Navy's fleet, ensuring seamless joint operations. • Korean War Valor: FMF units played a crucial role at the Inchon Landing and the grueling Chosin Reservoir campaign, showcasing adaptability in extreme conditions. • Humanitarian Missions: FMF units have provided disaster relief, such as during the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami and 2010 Haiti earthquake, exemplifying versatility beyond combat. • FMF Hospital Corpsmen: Navy corpsmen assigned to FMF have earned more Medals of Honor than members of any other Navy specialty, due to their heroism under fire. • Global Presence: FMF Marine Expeditionary Units (MEUs) are forward-deployed worldwide, ready to respond to crises at a moment's notice. • Motto and Ethos: FMF’s unofficial motto is “No better friend, no worse enemy” – a testament to their commitment to mission and camaraderie with the Navy.