About this Unit
Marine Forces Special Operations Command (MARSOC) is the United States Marine Corps component of U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM), officially established in 2006. MARSOC traces its roots to elite Marine units involved in special operations dating back to World War II, such as the Marine Raiders. Its primary mission is to provide tailored, scalable special operations forces capable of conducting direct action, special reconnaissance, and foreign internal defense worldwide. Since its inception, MARSOC operators, known as Raiders, have played key roles in the Global War on Terrorism, conducting missions in Afghanistan, Iraq, and other regions.
Historical Facts
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Origin of MARSOC: The United States Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command (MARSOC) was officially activated on February 24, 2006, making the Marine Corps’ long-awaited entry into the U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) community.
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Nickname – “Marine Raiders”: MARSOC units are often referred to as “Marine Raiders,” a tribute to the elite Marine Raider Battalions of World War II, known for their daring amphibious raids in the Pacific theater.
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Rigorous Selection Process: MARSOC candidates undergo the Assessment and Selection (A&S) process, which tests physical endurance, mental resilience, and leadership skills over several grueling weeks.
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First Deployment: MARSOC’s first operational deployment occurred in Afghanistan in 2007, where its teams operated alongside Afghan and coalition forces in counterinsurgency and direct action missions.
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Global Reach: MARSOC units have deployed to over 40 countries, conducting counterterrorism, foreign internal defense, special reconnaissance, and direct action missions.
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Motto: MARSOC’s motto is “Spiritus Invictus,” which means “Unconquerable Spirit,” reflecting the ethos and determination of its operators.
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Specialized Training: MARSOC operators, known as Critical Skills Operators (CSOs), receive training in advanced marksmanship, close-quarters battle, language, culture, and survival, evasion, resistance, and escape (SERE).
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Women in MARSOC: In 2016, following changes to Department of Defense policies, MARSOC opened its Assessment & Selection and training pipelines to qualified female Marines.
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Notable Operation – Operation Enduring Freedom: MARSOC teams played a key role in counterinsurgency operations in Afghanistan, particularly in Helmand Province, where they gained a reputation for effectiveness and adaptability.
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Expanding Influence: MARSOC’s success has led to the development of the Marine Raider Regiment, Marine Raider Support Group, and enhanced cooperation with other U.S. and allied special operations forces.
