A Comparative Analysis of Infantry Tactics: US Army vs Marines

Unlike the common belief, comparing the 'dick sizes' of two branches of the United States military has no real significance. For me, having served as an Army infantryman and a Marine infantryman, the significant differences lie in the tactical approaches, psychological mindsets, and operational philosophies of the two. This article delves into these differences based on personal experience and analysis.

Defensive vs Offensive Postures

The United States Army has a well-defined strategic objective of obtaining a defensive posture and calling in assets to maintain a strong defensive line. The standard operating procedures (SOP) often dictate that the Army will hold its ground, pin the enemy in place, and rely on the support of heavy artillery, air force, and other allied forces to suppress and defeat the enemy. This approach is heavily reliant on maintaining defensive lines and minimizing casualties.

In contrast, the United States Marine Corps tends to take a more aggressive and offensive posture when it comes to engaging in combat. Marines aim to attack and suppress enemy positions simultaneously. They prioritize maneuverability and speed, waiting to assess the enemy's position strength before deploying additional assets. This proactive approach to combat is based on the belief that prolonged static fighting is inefficient and wasteful, leading to significant ammunition expenditure without achieving significant tactical gains.

Routine Retreats and Tactical Withdrawals

The US Army has a standard SOP for setting up fall back points and methods of retreat. This is understandable given the strategic nature of their roles, which often involve maintaining ground and providing support to other branches of the military. However, in large scale operations, Marines do have the necessary procedures in place for falling back and tactical withdrawals, yet they rarely adopt these strategies as part of their everyday routine. This is a notable deviation from the Army's more prepared stance towards retreat and fallback.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the Marine Corps is its historical legacy of fighting against overwhelming odds. While the Army is prone to setting up fallback positions, the Marine Corps has a history of continued resistance even after running out of ammunition. This tenacity is often attributed to the Marine's voracious desire for combat, which is evident from the boot camp experience. Marine infantrymen undergo rigorous training, fostering a culture of resilience and commitment. This is essentially a segment of the military that thrives on the adrenaline and danger of combat, as opposed to the more passive, strategic mindset of the Army.

Training and Culture

The training culture of the Army and Marine Corps is markedly different. In my experience, there is a significant difference in the seriousness with which the two branches approach their training. Marines often have an impressive dedication to their training, characterized by a "work hard, play hard" mentality. This culture is underscored by the emphasis on maintaining a proud tradition of those who have died in service. On the contrary, the Army, while not lacking in commitment, is often seen as having a more resource-heavy approach, with a plethora of amenities and less emphasis on foot patrols.

Interestingly, historians and individuals within both branches often point to the Marines as being closer to specialized units like the Army's airborne, mountain, or infantry support battalion units. These units are specifically tasked with direct combat support and often exemplify the high stakes nature of infantry operations. Unlike other branches of the military, Marine infantrymen are renowned for their combat readiness and willingness to engage in high-risk, high-reward missions. This is a testament to the Marine Corps' unique approach to soldiering, which prioritizes aggressive tactics and a relentless pursuit of objectives.

In conclusion, while both the Army and Marine Corps have their strengths and unique operational philosophies, the differences in their approaches to combat, fallback strategies, and training cultures highlight the distinct challenges and requirements of serving in each branch. The Marines' reputation for aggressive tactics and their history of fighting against overwhelming odds serve as a stark contrast to the Army's more strategic and defensive approach. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for anyone interested in the intricacies of infantry operations and the diverse roles played by each branch of the US military.