Careers
Why Marine Corps?
What sets the Marine Corps apart isn鈥檛 just its training, weapons, or tactics. It鈥檚 the unshakable fighting spirit that lives within every Marine. It is the drive to achieve excellence, the determination to overcome adversity, and the unwavering commitment to mission accomplishment, no matter the cost.
Since 1775, the United States Marine Corps has served as America鈥檚 expeditionary force in readiness. Marines are forward deployed and prepared to respond rapidly and decisively in times of crisis. They fight on land, at sea, and in the air. They serve aboard naval ships, operate in joint and multinational environments, and take on missions ranging from combat operations to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.
Marines are known for their ability to improvise, adapt, and overcome. These qualities make them our nation鈥檚 first responders to global conflict. Their leadership, agility, and warrior mindset set the standard for military excellence. The battles they fight are not just defined by terrain or adversaries鈥攖hey are defined by the courage, grit, and integrity of the Marines themselves.
Those who commission as Marine Officers through the Naval ROTC program begin their careers at The Basic School (TBS) in Quantico, Virginia. TBS is a rigorous six-month program where every new officer learns to lead Marines and is assigned a .
Whether leading in combat, serving communities at home, or shaping the future of national security, Marines carry the fighting spirit with them for life. They do not wonder if they have made a difference鈥攂ecause they know they have.
"Some people spend their life wondering if they made a difference. Marines don't have
that problem."
鈥� President Ronald Reagan