The choice of U.S. Marines to guard embassies is rooted in their historical roles, strategic advantages, and the specific needs of embassy security. Here’s a breakdown of why the Marines became the go-to force for protecting American diplomatic missions abroad:
Why Marines Are Embassy Guards: Historical and Strategic Reasons
1. Historical Role and Small-Unit Expertise
- The Marines have a long history of providing security for naval and diplomatic missions. Traditionally, their roles involved small-unit expeditionary tasks, which made them suitable for missions requiring a compact but capable security force. This dates back to their role on warships, where they provided internal security and were responsible for guarding valuable resources like the armory, the cash locker, and even the rum supplies.
- Natural Extension: When diplomats traveled by sea in the past, Marines stationed on the same ships were the closest security available. As U.S. diplomatic presence expanded globally, it was a logical progression to extend this protective role from ships to embassies and consulates.
2. Expeditionary Nature and Quick Deployment
- The Marines’ expertise in rapid deployment and small-scale operations fits the requirements for embassy security. Diplomatic posts, by their nature, are often isolated, require quick action during crises, and operate in potentially unstable regions. Marines are trained to handle these challenges, making them ideal for the job.
- Embassies as Diplomatic Outposts: An embassy can be thought of as a small, forward operating base of diplomacy. The Marines’ ability to secure such bases, often in hostile environments, is part of what makes them a good fit for embassy duty.
3. World Wars and the Evolution of the Role
- During World War I and II, Marines began to play a more formalized role in diplomatic security. They served as couriers for the State Department, protecting sensitive communications and providing security during travel through dangerous territories.
- After World War II, the Marine Security Guard (MSG) program became official, with a dedicated force specifically assigned to protect U.S. embassies and consulates. This program launched in 1948 with 60 Marines initially stationed at the U.S. Embassy in London, and it expanded in 1949 to cover 83 embassies and consulates worldwide.
4. Specialized Training and Internal Security
- Marines assigned to the Marine Security Guard (MSG) program receive special training tailored for embassy security. This training focuses on protecting classified information, safeguarding embassy staff, and responding to crises such as protests, attacks, or evacuations.
- Integrated Response Capabilities: MSGs are not just guards—they’re part of a larger system that includes communication with local security forces, the host country’s authorities, and U.S. military assets if needed. They have access to armories and can activate quick response forces (QRF) if the embassy faces a serious threat.
5. Symbol of U.S. Commitment and Presence
- Marines have a symbolic role as well. Their presence at embassies represents the strength and commitment of the United States to protect its diplomats and interests abroad. This can act as a deterrent to potential threats while signaling to allies and host nations that the U.S. is serious about maintaining a secure diplomatic presence.
Unique to the United States?
The U.S. Marine Corps’ role in guarding embassies is somewhat unique. While other nations rely on various forms of security, such as diplomatic police units or special forces, the U.S. is one of the few countries that employs its military personnel, specifically Marines, for this role. This approach has proven effective in maintaining high standards of security across over 150 U.S. diplomatic posts worldwide.
In summary, the Marines’ adaptability, small-unit focus, and history of providing security to critical locations made them the ideal choice for guarding U.S. embassies. The role has evolved over time, but their core mission remains the same: to protect American lives and interests abroad, even in the most challenging environments.