As the Military Is Cut, America Still Needs the Marines

Publication Date: January 1992

Publisher: Heritage Foundation (Washington, D.C.)

Author(s): David Silverstein

Research Area: Military and defense

Keywords: National security

Type: Report

Abstract:

The Marine Carps adds an important dimension to America’s overall military posture, including the ability to strike quickly from the sea. If America gives up these capabilities, through neglect or by choice, its ability to defend its vital interests overseas will suffer. While America’s other services can take major cuts in the wake of the Soviet collapse and still fulfill their missions worldwide, the Marines cannot. As America’s smallest farce, it is most vulnerable to the budget cutters. The U.S. still needs the military capabilities that only the Marines can offer. They should be spared the budget knife.