Seven Weeks of Intensity

TRAINING:
◦ Security
◦ Antiterrorism
◦ Protection of classified materials
◦ Defensive tactics
◦ Chemical munitions
◦ Handcuffing
◦ First Aid
◦ Emergency response
◦ Expandable baton
◦ M9 Beretta service pistol
◦ Remington M870   12-guage shotgun
◦ M4 rifle
◦ Social etiquette
◦ Administrative procedures


     The close relationship between the Department of State and the United States Marine Corps is almost as old as the Corps itself.  For over 200 years Marines have served “In every clime and place” at the request of various Secretaries of State.
     Detachments are involved in every facet of life within the American community they serve.  Whether hosting social events, sponsoring local community activities, or just generally adding to the rich experience of living overseas, our Marine Security Guards are indeed "Ambassadors in Blue."  Recent events, however, have clearly highlighted the true benefit and mission of the detachments.
      The unexpected attack of the consulate in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia (December 2004), as well as the unplanned and unexpected evacuation of the embassies in Freetown, Sierra Leone (May 1997), Brazzaville, Congo (June 1997), N’Djamena, Chad (2008), and Conakry, Guinea (2009) were greatly facilitated by the actions of the Marine detachments.   Whether organizing convoys to the airport, destroying classified equipment, or providing protection to embassy personnel, the MSGs of these detachments were uniformly praised for their actions.  Most recently, Marine Security Guards maintained embassy security and assisted with the crisis management during the immediate aftermath of earthquakes in Port au Prince, Haiti and Santiago, Chile.
     Qualified volunteers for this special duty continue to be recommended by their Commanding Officers and ordered to Marine Security Guard School for seven weeks of extensive training, screening, and processing.  Today, over 1,100 Marine Security Guards serve at 149 posts in 135 different countries throughout the world.  The distinguished reputation enjoyed  by all Marine Security Guards has been earned by their outstanding performance of duty while accomplishing an important mission for the United States of America.  The constant reference of many American Ambassadors to "My Marines" is a source of great pride to the Corps.