Ground Combat Element

The Ground Combat Element (GCE) is mainly comprised of Marines from the 4th Marine division, representing units from across the country.

4th Marine Division Website

The main weapons of MARFOR UNITAS are the Marine riflemen of the GCE. Even with the technology of today (smart bombs, surface to air missiles, chemical and biological warfare,  and even remote control spy-planes), the  has been called upon to finish the jobs that can't be done from hundreds of miles away.  They have been the humanitarians, peacekeepers and the enforcers.  They have the tough job of landing on a foreign shore, engaging in combat when necessary, and helping the people of that country rebuild in peace and security.  The UNITAS Ground Combat Element is comprised of Marines and Corpsman who aren't afraid of putting their lives on the line to protect and serve The United States of America and all of its interests and property worldwide.

Second Platoon Tackles the Andes | 11-05

Weapons Platoon "Gets the Lead Out" With Peruvian Marines | 11-05 

GCE News: Focus on First Platoon  

Anchored in Cartagena, The USS Portland can be seen  from one of the Utility Boats as 'Ole Glory' flutters in the wind.  Photo by Major Rod Long, GCE Comanding Officer.

GCE on an eight mile hike for some conditioning training.

At the repel tower, we were trained on different types of repels.

GCE Marines learn how to control a hostile crowd during riot training at the MOUT.

Water Survival Qualification (WSQ) is essential for Marines, they cannot deploy without it.

Part of the training means that you have to learn how to protect yourself from a potential aggressor.  

"Hurry up.....

and wait!"

Attacking from the sea has been The Marine Corps' primary mission since 1775.