Marines serving on Navy ships perform a variety of roles and responsibilities that support both their mission and the overall operations of the ships. These duties are essential to ensuring the security, readiness, and efficiency of the ship and its crew. Below, we explore some of the key functions that Marines undertake while onboard.

Security Operations

One of the primary roles of Marines on Navy ships is security. They are tasked with protecting the ship from potential threats, such as piracy or terrorist attacks. This involves conducting constant surveillance, patrolling the deck, and maintaining a high level of alertness to identify and neutralize any potential dangers. Additionally, Marines may be responsible for guarding critical areas such as the weapons locker, nuclear weapons storage, and high-security zones.

Embarkation and Debarkation

Marines also play a crucial role in the loading and unloading of equipment and personnel. They ensure that everything is properly secured and accounted for, ensuring the safety and smooth operation of these processes. This includes overseeing the movement of supplies, logistics, and personnel, and making sure that all equipment is in proper working order before embarking or debarking from the ship.

Training Exercises

Regular training is a critical aspect of Marine life on a Navy ship. They conduct a variety of training exercises that include drills for amphibious assaults, small unit tactics, and coordination with Navy personnel. These exercises are designed to enhance the Marines' skills, improve their teamwork, and ensure that they are always ready for any situation that may arise. Some of the specific training exercises include:

Air defense drills Small arms drills Night time navigation Fleet exercises Emergency response operations

Maintenance and Logistics

In addition to security and training, Marines are also involved in maintenance and logistics support. They assist with the upkeep and repair of equipment, ensuring that it remains in good condition. This includes cleaning, inspecting, and performing necessary repairs on various systems on the ship. Additionally, they help manage and distribute supplies, ensuring that the ship has everything it needs to operate effectively.

Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief

Marines may also be part of missions that involve humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. When the ship serves as a base for these operations, Marines are responsible for coordinating efforts, setting up and maintaining supplies, and ensuring that aid is provided efficiently. This can include providing medical assistance, distributing food and water, and offering other forms of support to affected communities.

Specialized Missions

Depending on the mission, Marines may engage in specialized operations. These can include reconnaissance or direct action missions, which may be launched from the ship. These operations require a high level of expertise and specialized training, as well as a deep understanding of the mission objectives.

Marines on Specific Ship Types

The duties of Marines can vary depending on the type of ship they are on. For example, if they are traveling in a gator freighter, their primary role may be to maintain peak readiness. If they are on a carrier, they may be involved in guarding the presence of weapons as well as running security drills. On carriers, Marines are often responsible for guarding the nuclear weapons locker, providing security for flag officers, ship captains, and high-security areas such as CIC (Combat Information Center) and intelligence rooms. When on transport ships, they assist with various shipboard duties, such as mess cleaning and even chipping paint. Marine presence on these ships ensures that the crew remains vigilant and prepared for any situation.

Sub tenders, on the other hand, are primarily focused on security, guarding the missile storage and nuclear weapons lockers, as well as other high-value targets. This underscores the importance of having a trained and vigilant Marine presence on all types of Navy ships, ensuring that the ship, its crew, and its mission are always protected.

Overall, Marines on Navy ships serve as a versatile force capable of supporting a wide range of military operations, both in combat and non-combat scenarios. Their readiness, adaptability, and dedication are crucial to ensuring the safety and success of Navy operations.