EXPEDITIONARY FORCES

READY TO RESPOND

Marines are “First to Fight” and first prepared to accept any mission. Expeditionary units with rapid-response training and combined-arms capabilities ensure that the Marine Corps is ready to fight our nation’s battles anywhere in the world.

ADD IT SHARE IT

A Marine Expeditionary Unit needs only
six hours to plan and mobilize a mission.Warning OrderThe MEU receives orders and prepares to respond to a crisis.The MEU receives an order and begins to prepare.
The Commander issues a warning order and planning guidance.
The Crisis Action Team is briefed.
Company and Platoon commanders are called to join the planning.
Every Marine and every platoon prepare to be briefed.Crisis Action BriefCommanders and Staff review intelligence and begin to plan.The Crisis Action Team begins to plan.
Osprey pilots and crew chiefs support cross-deck operations.
Motor Transport and Maintenance complete work on vehicles.
Aviation Maintenance units finalize repairs.
Logistics Marines begin supply estimates.Detailed PlanningEach element prepares to support a unified course of action.The Crisis Action Team confirms details.
Combat Cargo teams prepare the well deck.
Non-commissioned officers assemble their Marines.
Tanks and AAVs configure vehicle weapon systems.
Avionics Marines begin preflight inspections.
Supply units prepare to distribute food and gear.Confirmation BriefThe Commander approves a plan and all orders are distributed. The Commander approves the mission plan.
Supporting commanders prepare to brief their units.
Marines coordinate and confirm plans with Navy counterparts.
Unit leaders rejoin their Marines to brief the mission.
Infantry units draw weapons and ammunition.
Aviation ordnance teams load aircraft weapons systems.
Mission StagingMarines load their gear onto vehicles and prepare to move out. Units run through orders and confirm maneuvers.
Pilots and crew chiefs are briefed on the mission and flight conditions.
Aviation units finalize flight plans.
Marines gear up and perform pre-combat checks and inspections.
Communications plans are distributed across each unit.
Vehicles are loaded onto LCACs for the amphibious landing.Execute OrdersAircraft and landing craft launch the first wave of Marines.Unit commanders issue final orders.
Amphibious Assault Vehicles launch from the well decks.
Tanks and LAVs launch aboard LCACs.
CH-53 Super Stallion and MV-22 Osprey launch with cargo and Marines.
AV-8B Harriers launch to provide close air support.

FAQ MARINEOFFICER.COM | LIFEASAMARINE.COM || SITE MAP | REPORT ISSUE | BECOME A MARINE | PRIVACY POLICY | T.O.S.