Marines on Navy Ships: An Analysis

Marines have historically played an important role in the United States Navy, especially on specialized ships like amphibious assault ships and aircraft carriers. However, their presence has waned over the years, with the majority of today's Navy ships not carrying marine detachments. This article delves into the history of marine deployments on Navy ships, the current situation, and the factors that influence their presence on various vessels.

Marines on Aircraft Carriers in the Past

Back in the 1970s, I served on an aircraft carrier where a Marine detachment was present. The detachment was led by a captain and a first lieutenant, and they played a crucial role in various shipboard operations. They assisted with weapons security, managed the brig, and even helped me qualify with the .45 caliber pistol and M-16 rifle during our overseas deployment. However, it is worth noting that today, Marines no longer serve on aircraft carriers as they once did.

No Marines on All Navy Ships Historically

Over the course of my 20 years in service, I spent time on a variety of ships, ranging from aircraft carriers to submarines and cruisers. Only aircraft carriers and a few amphibious ships typically carried marine detachments. Submarines, destroyers, frigates, cruisers, and submarine tenders did not have marine presence. Even the Mount Whitney, which served as the Second Fleet flagship, did not have Marines on board during my visits.

Current Presence of Marines on Navy Ships

Today, the number of ships carrying marine detachments has significantly decreased compared to recent past. The decision to have Marines on board is often based on the specific mission and deployment needs of the ship. For example, in the 1990s, the Ticonderoga class guided missile cruiser I was stationed on had no Marines on board. Amphibious assault ships, however, typically do carry Marines, although only one or two per mission or training operation.

Specialized Roles and Cross Training Programs

While Marine detachments are no longer a standard feature on most Navy ships, their presence can be found in specialized roles. For instance, Marine Fighter Squadrons that fly Hornet aircraft are often found on aircraft carriers. The Marines in these squadrons are cross-trained but do not form part of the ship's full crew complement. Similarly, the need for Marines on amphibious assault ships is tied to the operation and the specific mission they are tasked to perform.

Key Takeaways

Despite the decreasing trend in marine deployments on Navy ships, their role remains vital in specific scenarios. Whether it is security, handling specialized weapons, or participating in amphibious operations, Marines bring unique skills and expertise to the ships where they are deployed. Understanding the history and current realities of marine presence on Navy ships provides valuable insights into the evolving nature of naval operations and crew compositions.

In conclusion, the presence of Marines on Navy ships is not a blanket requirement for all vessels. Instead, it is tailored to the specific mission requirements and the specialized skills needed for various naval operations.