Us Marine Raiders

US Marine Raiders

MILS330

US Marine Raiders

Introduction

The US Marine Raiders represented the first combat unit that was employed for unconventional tactics and techniques. The Raiders were employed to fight behind enemy lines in order to achieve efficiency and effectiveness. They were exclusively used to target Japanese military installations that were located at remote areas. The Raiders were employed with devastating results against Japanese military installations. They helped to amalgamate conventional and guerilla tactics for optimized results. This paper will seek to analyze the historical background, combat action, and legacy of the Marine Raiders. It will use a number of research resources in order to derive accurate conclusions and findings.

Thesis Statement

While the role and missions of Marine Special Operators has changed, the US Marine Raiders were among first to use unconventional warfare in the United States and shaped Marine Corps Special Operations. The proud members of the Marine Special Operations Command now wear the Raider Shield near 70 years later as a testament to their bravery and legacy.

Background

During World War II, the United States was interested in the creation of a special forces that would be used for launching attacks behind enemy lines. The Marine Corps possessed the expertise, training, and manpower to fulfill such a role. However it was only when the United States focused its attention towards the Pacific theatre that the Marine Raiders were created. These elite units were created for the purpose of attacking Japanese military bases in remote islands (Alexander, 2000). Major Evans F. Carlson was placed in charge of these elite units due to his vast military experience and expertise. He had extensive knowledge about the use of guerilla tactics against conventional foes. This had been acquired through a systematic study of the Chinese...