Marines. An Illustrated History

Marines. An Illustrated History - Chester Hearn

The United States Marine Corps's history is one built on tenacity. A handful of bedraggled and unappreciated ships' guards known as Continental Marines more than 230 years ago grew to become, in the twenty-first century, a superb, multi-functional, ready-response force combining ground, air, and sea power. With their own ships, aircraft, and special operations capability, Marines have become the most versatile, self-sufficient, all-encompassing, ready-response warriors on the planet. They fly fighter-bombers, helicopters, and surveillance planes, and are equipped with the very best weapons and gear. The transformation has never been smooth. Besides fighting on distant shores or quelling disturbances at home, the Marines have had to battle against penurious politicians and interservice rivals. The constant pressure to be the best created a special bondâ??a fellowship of valorâ??that has made Marines determined fighters, continuously modifying their doctrine to respond to the evolving global war on terrorism.