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UNSC Marine Corps: Difference between revisions

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(Sigh, my edit earlier today evidently failed to save. Can't find anything mentioning a Air Wing/Logisitcs Group from Contact Harvest btw.)
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{{Era|Human|UNSC|HCW|Post}}
{{Era|Human|UNSC|HCW|Post}}
{{Cleanup}}
{{Military infobox
{{Military infobox
|image=[[File:UNSC Marine Corps.PNG|300px]]<!--Do not change the introductory image without a consensus on the talk page.-->
|image=[[File:UNSC Marine Corps.PNG|300px]]<!--Do not change the introductory image without a consensus on the talk page.-->
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|type=
|type=
|role=Expeditionary warfare
|role=Expeditionary warfare
|nicknames="Leathernecks"
|size=
|battles=[[Interplanetary War]] <br>
|nicknames="Jarheads",<ref>'''[[Halo: Spartan Assault]]''', ''[[Halo: Spartan Assault/Quotes|Quotes]]''</ref> "Leathernecks"<ref>'''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]''', campaign level, ''[[The Truth and Reconciliation]]''</ref>
[[Insurrection]] <br>
|battles=*[[Interplanetary War]]
[[Human-Covenant War]] <br>
*[[Insurrection]]
[[Post-Covenant War conflicts]]
*[[Human-Covenant War]]
|commanders=
*[[Post-Covenant War conflicts]]
|notable-title=Notable commanders
|commanders=*[[General]] [[Hogan]]<ref name="HE1">'''[[Halo: Escalation]]''', ''[[Halo: Escalation Issue 1|Issue #1]]''</ref>
|notable=[[Hogan|General Hogan]] <br>
*General [[Daniel Black]]
[[Kits|General Kits]] <br>
*General [[Van Zandt]]
[[Van Zandt|General Van Zandt]]<br>
*General [[Kits]]
[[Daniel Black|General Black]]<br>
*[[Colonel]] [[Kennedy Mehaffey]]
[[Deen|Colonel Deen]]<br>
*Colonel [[Felicia Sanderson]]
[[Kennedy Mehaffey|Colonel Mehaffey]]<br>
*Colonel [[Robert Watts]]
[[Felicia Sanderson|Colonel Sanderson]]<br>
[[Robert Watts|Colonel Watts]] {{C|formerly}}<br>
[[Unidentified colonel]]<br>
[[Aboim|Lt. Colonel Aboim]]<br>
[[Sedavian|Major Sedavian]]<br>
[[Antonio Silva|Major Silva]]<br>
[[Akio Watanabe|Major Watanabe]]<br>
[[Ponder|Capt. Ponder]]
}}
}}
{{Quote|They're the best of the best, but they're only human.|Description<ref>''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'' Manual</ref>}}
{{Quote|They're the best of the best, but they're only human.|Description<ref>''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'' Manual</ref>}}


The '''United Nations Space Command Marine Corps''' is a branch of the [[United Nations Space Command|UNSC]] [[UNSC Armed Forces|Armed Forces]], responsible for conducting land-based expeditionary combat operations using the mobility provided by the [[UNSC Navy]] to rapidly deliver forces. Marines are also charged with the defense of Navy vessels and installations from hostile forces.
The '''UNSC Marine Corps''' is a branch of the [[United Nations Space Command]]'s [[UNSC Armed Forces|Armed Forces]] responsible for conducting land-based expeditionary combat operations, using the mobility provided by the [[UNSC Navy]] to rapidly deliver forces. Marines are also charged with the defense of Navy vessels and installations from hostile forces. While structured under the [[Unified Ground Command]],<ref name="enc54">'''[[Halo Encyclopedia]]''', ''page 54'' (2011)</ref> the UNSC Marine Corps operates closely with the [[UNSC Naval Command]] and has some authority within the office.<ref name="fb">'''[[Halo: Fleet Battles]]''', ''Core Rulebook - page 6''</ref> The Marine Corps is one of the five branches of the UNSC Armed Forces.<ref name="waypoint unsc">[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/factions/unsc '''Halo Waypoint''': ''UNSC'']</ref>


==History==
==History==
===Origins===
===Origins and formation===
The UNSC Marine Corps were organized from Earth's disparate national military forces by the [[United Nations]] in [[2163]].<ref>'''[[Halo Encyclopedia]]''', Chapter 2, ''page 42''</ref> Their historic first off-world deployment took place in the same year, in a series of lightning strikes against the [[Koslovics]] on [[Mars]] in the [[Argyre Planitia Campaign]]. The decisive success of this campaign had a major impact on future military doctrine, resulting in warships carrying large Marine contingents for ground assaults and [[boarding]] actions.<ref>'''[[Xbox.com/Halo]]'''</ref>
The [[Wikipedia:United States Marine Corps|United States Marine Corps]] is the precursor to the UNSC Marine Corps.<ref name="enc31">'''Halo Encyclopedia''', ''page 31'' (2011)</ref> As the [[Interplanetary War]] began in the [[2160]]s, the [[national government]]s of the [[Sol system]] strengthened and deployed their militaries for conflict. However, the distributed nature of their forces led to disorder among the ranks of these militaries. In response, the [[United Nations]] organized the [[United Nations Space Command]] from Earth's disparate national military forces in [[2163]];<ref name="enc42">'''Halo Encyclopedia''', ''page 42'' (2011)</ref> the UNSC Marine Corps was created as one of the UNSC's branches with most of the UNSC consisting of Marine assets, as well as assets of the [[UNSC Navy]].<ref name="waypoint unsc"/> Shortly following the [[Rainforest Wars]], triggered by [[Koslovic]] attacks at the [[Argyre Planitia]] shipbuilding plants on [[Mars]], the United Nations began the [[Mars Campaign]] in [[2163|December 2163]]. This campaign marked the first extra-terrestrial deployment of the UNSC Marine Corps, as the UNSC launched a series of lightning strikes against Koslovic forces near the Argyre Planitia.<ref name="enc42"/>
 
The decisive success of this campaign had a major impact on future military doctrine, resulting in UNSC Navy [[warship]]s carrying large Marine contingents for ground assaults and [[boarding]] actions. Following the success of the UNSC Marine Corps at Mars, recruitment drives and propaganda tactics strongly bolstered UNSC forces and the Koslovics and [[Frieden]]s were defeated on [[Earth]] in [[2170]].<ref>[[Xbox.com/Halo|'''Xbox.com''', ''Halo Timeline'']]</ref>


===The Insurrection===
===The Insurrection===
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==Organization==
==Organization==
The Marine Corps is subordinate to the [[UNSC High Command]] (HIGHCOM). Like the [[UNSC Army]], the UNSC Marine Corps is organized under the [[Unified Ground Command]].<ref>'''[[Halo Encyclopedia]]'''</ref> However, because of its role in expeditionary warfare and its deployment from space, there are a number of differences in its organization from the Army. As well as possessing infantry, armored, and air units, the UNSC Marine Corps is based around [[Marine Expeditionary Force]]s, which contain at least one [[division]]-sized unit of Marines, an Air Wing, and a Logistics Group.<ref>'''[[Halo: Contact Harvest]]''', ''page 111''</ref>. Because of its role as an "amphibious", space-deployed force, the Marine Corps enjoys a close relationship with the [[UNSC Navy]], with Marine complements being deployed on most warships.<ref>'''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'''</ref><ref>'''[[Halo 2]]'''</ref><ref>'''[[Halo: The Fall of Reach]]'''</ref>
The UNSC Marine Corps is one of the five branches of the [[United Nations Space Command]], organized under the [[UNSC Armed Forces]].<ref name="waypoint unsc"/> The Marine Corps is subordinate to the [[UNSC High Command]] and the branch has a seat on the [[UNSC Security Council]], currently represented by [[General]] [[Hogan]].<ref name="HE1"/> The Marine Corps is largely under the authority of the UNSC's [[Unified Ground Command]] (UniCom), responsible for managing ground-based operations of the Marine Corps, the [[UNSC Air Force]], and the [[UNSC Army]].<ref name="enc54"/> However, due to the Marines' expeditionary nature, the branch has some with the [[UNSC Naval Command]], particularly in the Navy-dominated [[UNSC Fleet Command]] where the Marines have only a token representation.<ref name="fb"/> The branch also maintains its own [[UNSC Marine Corps of Engineers]] command.<ref>'''Halo: Evolutions''', "[[Midnight in the Heart of Midlothian]]", ''page 82''</ref> As well as possessing infantry, armored, and air units, the UNSC Marine Corps is based around [[Marine Expeditionary Force]]s, which contain at least one [[division]]-sized unit of Marines, an Air Wing, and a Logistics Group.<ref>'''[[Halo: Contact Harvest]]''', ''page 111''</ref>{{Verify source}} Because of its role as an "amphibious", space-deployed force, the Marine Corps enjoys a close relationship with the [[UNSC Navy]], with Marine complements being deployed on most warships.<ref>'''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'''</ref><ref>'''[[Halo 2]]'''</ref><ref>'''[[Halo: The Fall of Reach]]'''</ref> The Marine Corps, along with the Navy, was headquartered at the [[Fleet Command Headquarters]] on [[Reach]], until the facility's destruction and the planet's [[Fall of Reach|fall]] in [[2552]].<ref>'''Halo: Contact Harvest''', ''page 47''</ref>


In addition to conventional forces, the Marine Corps maintain [[UNSC Special Forces|special operations forces]] in the form of the [[Orbital Drop Shock Trooper]]s. ODSTs drop into hostile areas via [[Single Occupant Exoatmospheric Insertion Vehicle|SOEIVs]] prior to the main invasion. They attempt to complete some of the most difficult tasks in hostile areas, such as clearing enemy ground forces or establishing landing zones for incoming [[Dropship 77-Troop Carrier|Pelicans]].<ref>'''[[Halo 2]]'''</ref><ref>[http://www.bungie.net/projects/odst/guide.aspx '''Bungie.net''', ''ODST Field Guide'']</ref>
In addition to conventional forces, the Marine Corps maintain [[UNSC Special Forces|special operations forces]] in the form of the [[Orbital Drop Shock Trooper]]s. ODSTs drop into hostile areas via [[Single Occupant Exoatmospheric Insertion Vehicle|SOEIVs]] prior to the main invasion. They attempt to complete some of the most difficult tasks in hostile areas, such as clearing enemy ground forces or establishing landing zones for incoming [[Dropship 77-Troop Carrier|Pelicans]].<ref>'''[[Halo 2]]'''</ref><ref>[http://www.bungie.net/projects/odst/guide.aspx '''Bungie.net''', ''ODST Field Guide'']</ref>
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Large numbers of men and women are employed by the UNSC Marine Corps. Service people hold ranks, which are divided between officers and enlisted. The rank structure of the UNSC Marine Corps is based around that of the [[Wikipedia:United States Marine Corps|United States Marine Corps]].
Large numbers of men and women are employed by the UNSC Marine Corps. Service people hold ranks, which are divided between officers and enlisted. The rank structure of the UNSC Marine Corps is based around that of the [[Wikipedia:United States Marine Corps|United States Marine Corps]].


==Uniform==
===Uniform===
[[File:Halo 3 Marine.jpg|thumb|150px|A Marine in the jungles of [[Kenya]].]]
{{Main|UNSC Marine Corps Dress Uniform|UNSC Marine Corps Battle Dress Uniform|ODST battle armor}}
{{Main|UNSC Marine Corps Dress Uniform|UNSC Marine Corps Battle Dress Uniform|ODST battle armor}}
[[File:HW - Marine BDU.jpg|thumb|250px|A UNSC Marine in battle armor]]
Marine Corps Dress Uniforms are worn on formal or ceremonial occasions, and are similar to those worn by their 20th and 21st Century predecessors in the [[Wikipedia:United States Marine Corps|United States Marine Corps]]. A variety of dress uniforms exist, including a white-and-blue uniform,<ref>'''[[Halo 2]]''', campaign level, ''[[Cairo Station (level)|Cairo Station]]''</ref> an all-blue uniform,<ref>'''[[Halo: Contact Harvest]]'''</ref> and an all-black funerary uniform.<ref>''[[The Life]]''</ref>
Marine Corps Dress Uniforms are worn on formal or ceremonial occasions, and are similar to those worn by their 20th and 21st Century predecessors in the [[Wikipedia:United States Marine Corps|United States Marine Corps]]. A variety of dress uniforms exist, including a white-and-blue uniform,<ref>'''[[Halo 2]]''', campaign level, ''[[Cairo Station (level)|Cairo Station]]''</ref> an all-blue uniform,<ref>'''[[Halo: Contact Harvest]]'''</ref> and an all-black funerary uniform.<ref>''[[The Life]]''</ref>


In the field, Marines usually wear passively [[camouflage]]d uniforms with [[M52B Body Armor|body armor]]. Marine helmets are mounted with holographic text-displaying [[UNSC tactical eyepiece|eyepieces]] and [[Helmet recorder|recorders]]. As well as helmets, Marines on field operations in more humid locales sometimes choose to wear [[Wikipedia:Boonie hat|boonie covers]], or those in colder environments don visored and thicker helmets. Marine [[Non-commissioned officer|NCOs]] are easily recognized by the cover they wear complete with the UNSC insignia, although they oftentimes substitute this soft cover for a more practical protective helmet; post-war NCOs often wear a variant with a fully sealed helmet that is otherwise worn by scouts. Marines sometimes don small helmet communications microphones or black-phased sunglasses on their helmets, and others carry backpacks. Marines sometimes wear black gloves to protect their hands and improve their grip on their weapons. Some Marines sport orange visors which attach to the brim of their helmets.
In the field, Marines usually wear passively [[camouflage]]d uniforms with [[M52B body armor]]. Lightweight, though durable, the armor is capable of taking a surprisingly resilient. Marines don [[Ushuaia Armory]]'s [[CH252 helmet]]s equipped with a [[heads-up display]] and radio system.<ref name="enc49">'''Halo Encyclopedia''', ''page 49'' (2011)</ref> The helmets are mounted with holographic text-displaying [[UNSC tactical eyepiece|eyepieces]] and [[Helmet recorder|recorders]].<ref>'''Halo: Combat Evolved''', campaign level, ''[[343 Guilty Spark (level)|343 Guilty Spark]]''</ref> In addition to helmets, Marines on field operations in more humid locales sometimes choose to wear [[Wikipedia:Boonie hat|boonie covers]], or those in colder environments don visored and thicker helmets. Marine [[Non-commissioned officer|NCOs]] are easily recognized by the cover they wear complete with the UNSCDF insignia, although they oftentimes substitute this soft cover for a more practical protective helmet; post-war NCOs often wear a variant with a fully sealed helmet that is otherwise worn by scouts. Marines sometimes don small helmet communications microphones or black-phased sunglasses on their helmets, and others carry backpacks. Marines sometimes wear black gloves to protect their hands and improve their grip on their weapons. Some Marines sport orange visors which attach to the brim of their helmets. Marines operating in cold environments wear environmentally-tailored armor, with insulated snow camouflage utilities and full body armor as well as insulated and visored helmets with something analogous to a balaclava.<ref>'''[[Halo Wars]]'''</ref> Marines also wear the lightweight and protective [[VZG7 armored boots]], the standard footwear of the Marine Corps since the middle of the 26th century.<ref name="enc49"/>
 
Marines operating in cold environments wear environmentally-tailored armor, with insulated snow camouflage utilities and full body armor as well as insulated and visored helmets with something analogous to a balaclava.<ref>'''[[Halo Wars]]'''</ref>


[[Orbital Drop Shock Troopers]] sport heavy and articulated black battle armor, which also double as an armored g-suit that allows for safe transport in small ships during turbulent atmospheric entry. They also wear fully-visored, black helmets that cover the entirety of the head, and can withstand several headshots. This armor, overall, provides ODSTs with more protection than standard marine armor.
[[Orbital Drop Shock Troopers]] sport heavy and articulated black battle armor, which also double as an armored g-suit that allows for safe transport in small ships during turbulent atmospheric entry. They also wear fully-visored, black helmets that cover the entirety of the head, and can withstand several headshots. This armor, overall, provides ODSTs with more protection than standard marine armor.
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==Equipment==
==Equipment==
===Infantry weapons===
===Infantry weapons===
The standard issue weapon for UNSC Marine Corps is [[Misriah Armory]]'s [[MA5 Series|MA5 assault rifle series]], which can be outfitted with an [[M301 Grenade Launcher]] or an [[underslung shotgun]]. Most Marines were issued the [[MA5B Individual Combat Weapon System|MA5B variant]] until its nearly universal replacement in late 2552 by the [[MA5C Individual Combat Weapon System|MA5C variant]]. The [[BR55 Battle Rifle]] and [[BR55HB SR Battle Rifle|its heavy barrelled variant]] are used both as standard service rifles and as marksman's weapons. The Corps issues several models of the [[M6 Series|M6 handgun series]], with its standard sidearm being the [[M6G Personal Defense Weapon System]]. Suppressive fire is provided by the [[M247 General Purpose Machine Gun]], the [[AIE-486H Heavy Machine Gun]], and mounted versions of the [[M41 Light Anti-Aircraft Gun]]. Special forces and vehicle crews are issued [[M7 Caseless Submachine Gun]]s, with [[Orbital Drop Shock Troopers|special forces]] typically using the [[M7S Caseless Submachine Gun|suppressed model]]. The [[M90 Close Assault Weapon System]] is often utilized in close-quarters engagements.
[[File:H2A-AnotherDay1.jpg|thumb|250px|left|A UNSC Marine with the BR55 battle rifle]]
 
The standard issue weapon for UNSC Marine Corps is [[Misriah Armory]]'s [[MA5 Series|MA5 assault rifle series]], which can be outfitted with an [[M301 grenade launcher]] or an [[underslung shotgun]].<ref>[http://halo.bungie.net/news/content.aspx?type=topnews&link=BAGAssaultRifle '''Bungie.net''': ''MA5C Assault Rifle'']</ref> Most Marines were issued the [[MA5B assault rifle|MA5B variant]], until its nearly universal replacement in late [[2552]] by the [[MA5C assault rifle|MA5C variant]]<ref name="enc318">'''Halo Encyclopedia''', ''page 318'' (2011)</ref> and later the [[MA5D assault rifle|MA5D]]. The [[BR55 battle rifle]] and [[BR55HB battle rifle|its heavy barrelled variant]] are used both as standard service rifles and as marksman's weapons. The [[BR85HB battle rifle]] is also commonly used by the Marines, with a majority of the Corps favoring the BR85HB as the best model of the battle rifle.<ref>'''Halo 4: The Essential Visual Guide''', ''page 61''</ref> Furthermore, the UNSC Marine Corps has adopted the [[M395 Designated Marksman Rifle|M395 DMR]], though previous models have been eclipsed in the Marines by the prominence of the BR55 battle rifle and its variants. The [[M392 DMR]] also remains in service with Marine reserve units.<ref>[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/weapons/dmr '''Halo Waypoint''': ''DMR'']</ref> The Corps issues several models of the [[M6 series|M6 handgun series]], with its standard sidearm being the [[M6G magnum]] as of [[2555]].<ref>[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/weapons/magnum '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Magnum'']</ref> [[Special operations]] and vehicle crews are issued [[M7 SMG|M7 submachine gun]]s, with [[Orbital Drop Shock Troopers|ODSTs]] typically using the [[M7S SMG|suppressed model]].<ref>[http://www.bungie.net/projects/halo3/content.aspx?link=h3smg '''Bungie.net''': ''M7 / Caseless Submachine Gun'']</ref>
A number of new weapons have been introduced into service within the UNSC Marine Corps in the years following the Human-Covenant War. By the time of the [[Battle of Requiem]] in 2557, UNSC Marines are issued with the [[MA5D Individual Combat Weapon System]] alongside the [[BR85 Heavy Barrel Service Rifle]]. Furthermore, the UNSC Marine Corps has adopted the [[M395 Designated Marksman Rifle]], despite the fact that previous models have been eclipsed in the Marines by the prominence of the [[BR55 Battle Rifle]] and its variants. The [[M392 DMR]] also remains in service with Marine reserve units.<ref>[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/weapons/dmr '''Halo Waypoint''': ''DMR'']</ref> The standard sidearm is now the [[M6H Personal Defense Weapon System]]. The [[M739 Light Machine Gun]] was also adopted in squad-support role. In close quarters combat situations, post-war Marines utilize the [[M45D Tactical Shotgun]]. The [[M247H Heavy Machine Gun]] is now favored as a fixed Machine Gun emplacement.


Snipers operate the [[Sniper Rifle System 99C-S2 Anti-Matériel|SRS 99C-S2 AM]] and [[Sniper Rifle System 99D-S2 Anti-Matériel|SRS 99D-S2 AM]] sniper rifle variants for anti-matériel and anti-personnel operations. The [[M99 Special Application Scoped Rifle]] is used as a dedicated anti-matériel weapon. Standard UNSC sniper teams consists of two operators; a spotter and a sniper.
Snipers operate the [[SRS99C-S2 AM sniper rifle|SRS99C-S2 AM]] and [[SRS99D-S2 AM sniper rifle|SRS99D-S2 AM]], and more recently the [[SRS99-S5 AM sniper rifle|SRS99-S5 AM]], sniper rifle variants for anti-matériel and anti-personnel operations.<ref>[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/weapons/sniper-rifle '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Sniper Rifle'']</ref> The [[M99 Special Application Scoped Rifle]] was also formerly used as a dedicated anti-matériel weapon.<ref name="HGN122">'''[[Halo Graphic Novel]]''', ''[[Halo Graphic Novel, Page 122|Page 122]]''</ref> Standard UNSC [[Sniper-spotter team|sniper teams]] consists of two operators; a spotter and a sniper. The [[M45 shotgun|M45]] and [[M90 shotgun]]s are often utilized in close-quarters engagements. Once the weapon that defining the Marine Corps as the [[Unified Earth Government]]'s spaceborne force-in-readiness, the Marine Corps has relegated the shotgun to less-visible duties with [[boarding]] parties, though the shotgun still remains an important weapon of close-quarters warfare.<ref>[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/weapons/shotgun '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Shotgun'']</ref> The [[M739 SAW]] was also adopted in squad-support role.<ref>'''Halo 4: The Essential Visual Guide''', ''page 58''</ref>


Anti-armor fire is provided by the [[M19 SSM Rocket Launcher|M19]] and [[M41 Surface-to-Surface Rocket Medium Anti-Vehicle/Assault Weapon|M41]] missile and rocket launchers and the [[Model 6 Grindell/Galilean Nonlinear Rifle]] directed-energy-weapon. Portable anti-air fire is provided by the [[M19-B Surface-to-Air Missile Launcher]]. The Marine Corps also utilizes the [[XM510 Multishot Grenade Launcher]]. The [[NA4/Defoliant Projector|NA4]] and [[M7057 Defoliant Projector|M7057 flamethrowers]] are sometimes used in an anti-infantry role by specialists known as [[Hellbringers]]. The [[M9 High-Explosive Dual-Purpose Grenade]] is the standard-issue hand grenade of the UNSC Marine Corps. Several specialized grenades, as well as numerous types of landmines and explosive charges, are also used by Marine infantry. By 2557, the [[M363 Remote Projectile Detonator]] and [[Asymmetric Recoilless Carbine-920]] has been added to the heavy weapons armory of the UNSC Marine Corps.
Anti-armor fire is provided by the [[M41 SPNKR|M41 "SPNKR" rocket launcher]], and more recently the [[M57 Pilum]].<ref>[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/weapons/rocket-launcher '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Rocket Launcher'']</ref> The Marines also uses the [[M6 Spartan Laser]], though typically only ODSTs were issued these weapons prior to 2552 due to the high costs of the Spartan Laser at the time.<ref>[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/weapons/spartan-laser '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Spartan Laser'']</ref> The Marine Corps also utilizes the [[XM510 grenade launcher]].<ref name="Halo Wars OSG">'''[[Halo Wars: Official Strategy Guide]]''', ''page 35''</ref> Suppressive fire is provided by the [[M247 machine gun]], the [[M247H machine gun]], the [[AIE-486H machine gun]], and mounted versions of the [[M41 Vulcan|M41 "Vulcan"]].<ref>'''Halo: The Essential Visual Guide''', ''page 115''</ref> The [[NA4 flamethrower|NA4]] and [[M7057 flamethrower]]s are sometimes used in an anti-infantry role by specialists known as [[Hellbringers]].<ref>'''Halo: The Essential Visual Guide''', ''page 69''</ref> The [[M9 fragmentation grenade]] is the standard-issue hand [[grenade]] of the UNSC Marine Corps.<ref>[http://halo.bungie.net/projects/reach/article.aspx?ucc=ordnance&cid=28441 '''Bungie.net''': ''Grenade'']</ref> Several specialized grenades, as well as numerous types of landmines and explosive charges, are also used by Marine infantry. By [[2557]], the [[M363 sticky detonator]] and [[ARC-920 railgun]] has been added to the heavy weapons armory of the UNSC Marine Corps.<ref>[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/weapons/railgun '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Railgun'']</ref>


===Ground vehicles===
===Ground vehicles===
[[File:H2A - Warthogs.jpg|thumb|250px|Marines driving Warthogs through Mombasa]]
The UNSC Marines Corps' standard vehicle is the [[M12 Force Application Vehicle]], which is used for armored patrols and personnel mobility. The M12 FAV is produced in several variants. The most common of these variants is the [[M12 Light Reconnaissance Vehicle]], which is armed with an M41 Light Anti-Aircraft Gun. Light anti-vehicle support is provided by the [[M12G1 Light Anti-Armor Vehicle]], which is armed with an [[M68 Gauss Cannon]], the [[M12A1 Light Anti-Armor Vehicle]], which is mounted with a [[102mm SC-HE Rocket Turret]], and the [[M12R Light Anti-Armor Vehicle]], which features an [[M79 Multiple Launch Rocket System]]. The [[M831 Troop Transport]] serves as a fast, lightly armored transport vehicle for squads. The [[M274 Ultra-Light All-Terrain Vehicle]] is commonly used for scouting and light target interdiction.
The UNSC Marines Corps' standard vehicle is the [[M12 Force Application Vehicle]], which is used for armored patrols and personnel mobility. The M12 FAV is produced in several variants. The most common of these variants is the [[M12 Light Reconnaissance Vehicle]], which is armed with an M41 Light Anti-Aircraft Gun. Light anti-vehicle support is provided by the [[M12G1 Light Anti-Armor Vehicle]], which is armed with an [[M68 Gauss Cannon]], the [[M12A1 Light Anti-Armor Vehicle]], which is mounted with a [[102mm SC-HE Rocket Turret]], and the [[M12R Light Anti-Armor Vehicle]], which features an [[M79 Multiple Launch Rocket System]]. The [[M831 Troop Transport]] serves as a fast, lightly armored transport vehicle for squads. The [[M274 Ultra-Light All-Terrain Vehicle]] is commonly used for scouting and light target interdiction.


For heavy engagements, the Marine Corps operates the [[M808B Main Battle Tank]], which is armed with an [[M512 Smooth Bore High Velocity Cannon]] and an [[M247T Medium Machine Gun]]. In smaller numbers they also deployed the heavier [[M850 Main Battle Tank]] (with two [[M310 smooth-bore high-velocity cannon]]s and an M247T) throughout the Insurrection and Human-Covenant War, but postwar logistical issues led the Marine Corps to retire the M850. The [[M9 Main Anti-Air Tank]] is the Corps' primary mobile anti-air asset. The [[SP42 Cobra]] provides heavy anti-vehicle and anti-structure support. The [[M312 Heavy Recovery Vehicle]] provides heavy matériel recovery and troop transport.
For heavy engagements, the Marine Corps operates the [[M808B Main Battle Tank]], which is armed with an [[M512 Smooth Bore High Velocity Cannon]] and an [[M247T Medium Machine Gun]]. In smaller numbers, the Marines also deployed the heavier [[M850 Grizzly|M850 "Grizzly" Main Battle Tank]]—armed with two [[M310 smooth-bore high-velocity cannon]]s and an M247T]—throughout the Insurrection and Human-Covenant War, but postwar logistical issues led the Marine Corps to retire the M850.<ref>[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/vehicles/grizzly '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Grizzly'']</ref> The [[M9 Main Anti-Air Tank]] is the Corps' primary mobile anti-air asset. The [[SP42 Cobra]] provides heavy anti-vehicle and anti-structure support. The [[M312 Heavy Recovery Vehicle]] provides heavy matériel recovery and troop transport.


Less standard vehicles also saw service with the Marine Corps during the Human-Covenant War. The [[M-145D Rhino]] was outfitted with a reverse-engineered [[plasma mortar]]. The [[Gremlin Combat Support Vehicle]] is used to disable enemy vehicles with its onboard EMP weapon. The [[Cyclops]] support exoskeleton was used both repair duties and logistical support, as well as in combat, though it was eventually retired from service.
Less standard vehicles also saw service with the Marine Corps during the Human-Covenant War. The [[M-145D Rhino]] was outfitted with a reverse-engineered [[plasma mortar]]. The [[Gremlin Combat Support Vehicle]] is used to disable enemy vehicles with its onboard EMP weapon. The [[Cyclops]] support exoskeleton was used both repair duties and logistical support, as well as in combat, though it was eventually retired from service. In recent years, the [[HRUNTING/YGGDRASIL Mark IX Mantis|Mantis]] has been utilized by the Marines, with the Corp having contracted [[Materials Group]] to produce a refit package to allow alternate loadouts on the walker.<ref>[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/vehicles/mantis '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Mantis'']</ref>


===Aircraft===
===Aircraft===

Revision as of 01:27, January 11, 2016

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UNSC Marine Corps
UNSC Marine Corps.PNG

Active:

c. 2163 – present

Affiliation:

Unified Earth Government

Branch:

UNSC Armed Forces

Role:

Expeditionary warfare

Nicknames:

"Jarheads",[1] "Leathernecks"[2]

Engagements:

Commanders:

 

"They're the best of the best, but they're only human."
— Description[4]

The UNSC Marine Corps is a branch of the United Nations Space Command's Armed Forces responsible for conducting land-based expeditionary combat operations, using the mobility provided by the UNSC Navy to rapidly deliver forces. Marines are also charged with the defense of Navy vessels and installations from hostile forces. While structured under the Unified Ground Command,[5] the UNSC Marine Corps operates closely with the UNSC Naval Command and has some authority within the office.[6] The Marine Corps is one of the five branches of the UNSC Armed Forces.[7]

History

Origins and formation

The United States Marine Corps is the precursor to the UNSC Marine Corps.[8] As the Interplanetary War began in the 2160s, the national governments of the Sol system strengthened and deployed their militaries for conflict. However, the distributed nature of their forces led to disorder among the ranks of these militaries. In response, the United Nations organized the United Nations Space Command from Earth's disparate national military forces in 2163;[9] the UNSC Marine Corps was created as one of the UNSC's branches with most of the UNSC consisting of Marine assets, as well as assets of the UNSC Navy.[7] Shortly following the Rainforest Wars, triggered by Koslovic attacks at the Argyre Planitia shipbuilding plants on Mars, the United Nations began the Mars Campaign in December 2163. This campaign marked the first extra-terrestrial deployment of the UNSC Marine Corps, as the UNSC launched a series of lightning strikes against Koslovic forces near the Argyre Planitia.[9]

The decisive success of this campaign had a major impact on future military doctrine, resulting in UNSC Navy warships carrying large Marine contingents for ground assaults and boarding actions. Following the success of the UNSC Marine Corps at Mars, recruitment drives and propaganda tactics strongly bolstered UNSC forces and the Koslovics and Friedens were defeated on Earth in 2170.[10]

The Insurrection

Main article: Insurrection

From 2494 to 2525, the UNSC Marine Corps would be responsible for dealing with Insurrectionist uprisings on UNSC colonies and star systems. From 2512, the Marines were involved in one of the largest operations in their history, Operation: TREBUCHET, aimed at quelling rebel uprisings in the Eridanus and Epsilon Eridani star systems.

Units from the 9th Marine Expeditionary Force were sent to Eridanus II in force, hoping to capture leaders of the rebel movement and pacify the population. One of these units, the first Battalion of the 21st Marine Division commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Ponder, was involved in a disastrous mission to try and capture the second in command of rebel forces in Elysium City, which ended in the leader's family being killed and Ponder wounded and demoted.[11]

In 2524, a Marine battalion was posted at the colony world of Tribute, commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Aboim and supported by the corvette UNSC Bum Rush, with air support from AV-14 Hornets. The battalion attempted to put a stop to rebel bomb makers near the city of Casbah. Two special warfare squads, led by Staff Sergeants Avery Johnson and Nolan Byrne, were involved in disastrous operation in June. Byrne's team was killed during a hostage situation at a Jim Dandy restaurant near Casbah city; thirty-eight civilians, three Marines, and two rebels were killed in the bombing.[12]

Human-Covenant War

The UNSC Marine Corps' first encounter with the Covenant was at the First Battle of Harvest in 2525. At the event, only three Marine officers were present, training the planet's Colonial Militia. During the battle, Captain Ponder became the Corps' first casualty of the war.

Not long after the First Battle of Harvest, the Corps' experienced one of their first major encounters with the Covenant at numerous engagements throughout the Outer Colonies, including the Harvest Campaign, eventually lasting from 2526 to 2531. At the final stages of the campaign, the Marines quickly established a base of operations in Harvest's arctic region. A reconnaissance force led by Sergeant John Forge was deployed to survey the area. However, during the patrol, Covenant forces under the command of Arbiter Ripa 'Moramee overran and nearly destroyed the base. Forge rallied scattered marines, who quickly retook it from the aliens. After receiving reinforcements and repairing the base, the Marines fought through a sizable Covenant garrison force in an attempt to secure a mysterious Forerunner structure in the region.

The Battle of Arcadia saw the UNSC Marine Corps holding the defensive line around major population centers to allow evacuation for the civilian population with the assistance of the SPARTAN-II Red Team. Successfully keeping Covenant forces from occupying the population centers, the Corps' began launching multiple assaults on the Covenant's base of operations to reclaim the planet.

The UNSC Marine Corps would take part in numerous actions against the Covenant on many of the Outer Colonies in the years that followed. Unfortunately, they were hopelessly outgunned, out-numbered and out-flanked by the Covenant forces and the Marine Corps would suffer tremendous losses in what eventually saw the near-destruction of the Outer Colonies.

The Corps' experienced another encounter with the Covenant on the colony world of Sigma Octanus IV in 2552. Upon landing, the Marines' hardware and equipments were rendered useless due to the planet's harsh environment. In the first stage of the battle, during a naval engagement, a Covenant DDS-class carrier was able to land a large contingent of troops on the northern pole of the planet. The Covenant were able to take Côte d'Azur, a major population center. Fortunately almost all of the civilian population was evacuated beforehand, but the UNSC Marine Corps' General Kits launched a failed assault to retake the city.

The UNSC Marine Corps maintained a sizable presence on Reach when the Covenant stormed the planet; they bypassed the defense fleet in orbit, as well as the MAC Gun platforms, and made a considerable landing of soldiers on the North and South Poles. During the early hours of the battle, the Covenant had overrun FLEETCOM HQ on Reach, destroying the perimeter and swarming the Marine defenders with Banshees, Wraiths, and battalions of infantry. The situation became severe and critical when the Marines were forced to defend the Orbital Defense Generators against a massive Covenant assault, using every available armored vehicle and defensive position from available bunkers. The Battle of Reach became one of the most devastating defeats for the UNSC Marine Corps in the Human-Covenant War.

The surviving Marines from the Battle of Reach served an important role in the Battle of Installation 04, taking part in such engagements as securing the UNSC Pillar of Autumn crash site, launching multiple guerrilla assaults on Covenant convoys and base of operations and rescuing captured Pillar of Autumn's personnel from a Covenant Battlecruiser. Initially, the Marines were part of a special operation consisting of a sizable Orbital Drop Shock Trooper special forces detachment and a standard Marine detachment to infiltrate Covenant High Command and kidnap a Covenant Prophet.

"Dear humanity, we regret being alien bastards. We regret coming to Earth. And we most definitely regret that the Corps just blew up our raggedy-ass fleet!"
Sergeant Johnson

The UNSC Marine Corps remained in force on Earth and its geosynchronous Orbital Defense Platforms, and were mostly prepared to repulse a relatively small Covenant invasion, when fifteen Covenant capital warships, two Assault Carriers and thirteen Covenant Cruisers, entered the Sol System. They then played a significant role in during the Battle of Earth, where they defended multiple major population centers from the Covenant's occupation such as those in New Mombasa, Cleveland, and Havana.

Several Marine detachments achieved a turning point during the course of the Battle of Earth when they managed to retake the cities and maintain temporary ground control for UNSC reinforcements to arrive. One such Marine detachment was E2-BAG/1/7, which was able to engage the Covenant ground forces in Mombasa, Kenya as the Covenant assault carrier landed ground forces in the city.

The Marine Corps also partook in a major assault alongside the UNSC Navy in Voi. As ground forces, the Marines were to engage in the Battle of Voi with a SPARTAN-II supersoldier by eliminating anti-air vehicles and batteries, as well as destroying temporary Covenant outposts to allow UNSC reinforcements to refortify the area.

The Marines fought in the war's last battle at the Ark. Starting with their deployment in an operation codenamed Operation: BLIND FAITH,[13] the Marines launched numerous attacks on Brute strongholds, including an attack on the Ark's cartographer. After fighting on foot, and in heavy vehicles, the Marines drove off the Covenant. They then teamed up with the Elites and attacked three Barrier Towers protecting the Ark's Citadel. After capturing the first tower, with the help of the Master Chief, Marines and UNSC Pilots then defeated the Covenant Air Force. They then waited for the deactivation of the third tower, where they then staged an attack on the Citadel. After fighting two Scarabs, they were then evacuated back to the fleet while the Master Chief and the Arbiter killed Truth. The surviving Marine forces fell back to Earth through the Portal onboard the Shadow of Intent before Installation 04B was activated.

Further engagements

Main article: Post-Covenant War conflicts

After the end of the war against the Covenant, the UNSC Marines participated in a number of engagements against the Covenant remnants and the Insurrectionists. Significant numbers of Marines stationed on Draetheus V helped fend off the Covenant assault during the Battle of Draetheus V.[14] A force of Marines were also assigned to the UNSC Navy's new flagship, UNSC Infinity. When the ship subsequently crash-landed on Requiem in 2557, the Marines joined the Spartans in fighting off the opposing Covenant forces and Forerunner Prometheans in the First Battle of Requiem. When Infinity returned to Requiem in order to conquer the planet, Marines were once again dispatched in a joint campaign to reinforce the Spartans. The Second Battle of Requiem, waged in 2558, saw both sides trying to seize the Janus Key before the shield world's destruction.[15]

By 2558, some War Games simulations feature AI Marines that assist the Spartan-IVs in their training.[16]

Organization

The UNSC Marine Corps is one of the five branches of the United Nations Space Command, organized under the UNSC Armed Forces.[7] The Marine Corps is subordinate to the UNSC High Command and the branch has a seat on the UNSC Security Council, currently represented by General Hogan.[3] The Marine Corps is largely under the authority of the UNSC's Unified Ground Command (UniCom), responsible for managing ground-based operations of the Marine Corps, the UNSC Air Force, and the UNSC Army.[5] However, due to the Marines' expeditionary nature, the branch has some with the UNSC Naval Command, particularly in the Navy-dominated UNSC Fleet Command where the Marines have only a token representation.[6] The branch also maintains its own UNSC Marine Corps of Engineers command.[17] As well as possessing infantry, armored, and air units, the UNSC Marine Corps is based around Marine Expeditionary Forces, which contain at least one division-sized unit of Marines, an Air Wing, and a Logistics Group.[18][verification needed] Because of its role as an "amphibious", space-deployed force, the Marine Corps enjoys a close relationship with the UNSC Navy, with Marine complements being deployed on most warships.[19][20][21] The Marine Corps, along with the Navy, was headquartered at the Fleet Command Headquarters on Reach, until the facility's destruction and the planet's fall in 2552.[22]

In addition to conventional forces, the Marine Corps maintain special operations forces in the form of the Orbital Drop Shock Troopers. ODSTs drop into hostile areas via SOEIVs prior to the main invasion. They attempt to complete some of the most difficult tasks in hostile areas, such as clearing enemy ground forces or establishing landing zones for incoming Pelicans.[23][24]

Personnel

Main article: UNSC rank structure

Large numbers of men and women are employed by the UNSC Marine Corps. Service people hold ranks, which are divided between officers and enlisted. The rank structure of the UNSC Marine Corps is based around that of the United States Marine Corps.

Uniform

Main articles: UNSC Marine Corps Dress Uniform, UNSC Marine Corps Battle Dress Uniform, ODST battle armor
A UNSC Marine in battle armor

Marine Corps Dress Uniforms are worn on formal or ceremonial occasions, and are similar to those worn by their 20th and 21st Century predecessors in the United States Marine Corps. A variety of dress uniforms exist, including a white-and-blue uniform,[25] an all-blue uniform,[26] and an all-black funerary uniform.[27]

In the field, Marines usually wear passively camouflaged uniforms with M52B body armor. Lightweight, though durable, the armor is capable of taking a surprisingly resilient. Marines don Ushuaia Armory's CH252 helmets equipped with a heads-up display and radio system.[28] The helmets are mounted with holographic text-displaying eyepieces and recorders.[29] In addition to helmets, Marines on field operations in more humid locales sometimes choose to wear boonie covers, or those in colder environments don visored and thicker helmets. Marine NCOs are easily recognized by the cover they wear complete with the UNSCDF insignia, although they oftentimes substitute this soft cover for a more practical protective helmet; post-war NCOs often wear a variant with a fully sealed helmet that is otherwise worn by scouts. Marines sometimes don small helmet communications microphones or black-phased sunglasses on their helmets, and others carry backpacks. Marines sometimes wear black gloves to protect their hands and improve their grip on their weapons. Some Marines sport orange visors which attach to the brim of their helmets. Marines operating in cold environments wear environmentally-tailored armor, with insulated snow camouflage utilities and full body armor as well as insulated and visored helmets with something analogous to a balaclava.[30] Marines also wear the lightweight and protective VZG7 armored boots, the standard footwear of the Marine Corps since the middle of the 26th century.[28]

Orbital Drop Shock Troopers sport heavy and articulated black battle armor, which also double as an armored g-suit that allows for safe transport in small ships during turbulent atmospheric entry. They also wear fully-visored, black helmets that cover the entirety of the head, and can withstand several headshots. This armor, overall, provides ODSTs with more protection than standard marine armor.

Equipment

Infantry weapons

A UNSC Marine with the BR55 battle rifle

The standard issue weapon for UNSC Marine Corps is Misriah Armory's MA5 assault rifle series, which can be outfitted with an M301 grenade launcher or an underslung shotgun.[31] Most Marines were issued the MA5B variant, until its nearly universal replacement in late 2552 by the MA5C variant[32] and later the MA5D. The BR55 battle rifle and its heavy barrelled variant are used both as standard service rifles and as marksman's weapons. The BR85HB battle rifle is also commonly used by the Marines, with a majority of the Corps favoring the BR85HB as the best model of the battle rifle.[33] Furthermore, the UNSC Marine Corps has adopted the M395 DMR, though previous models have been eclipsed in the Marines by the prominence of the BR55 battle rifle and its variants. The M392 DMR also remains in service with Marine reserve units.[34] The Corps issues several models of the M6 handgun series, with its standard sidearm being the M6G magnum as of 2555.[35] Special operations and vehicle crews are issued M7 submachine guns, with ODSTs typically using the suppressed model.[36]

Snipers operate the SRS99C-S2 AM and SRS99D-S2 AM, and more recently the SRS99-S5 AM, sniper rifle variants for anti-matériel and anti-personnel operations.[37] The M99 Special Application Scoped Rifle was also formerly used as a dedicated anti-matériel weapon.[38] Standard UNSC sniper teams consists of two operators; a spotter and a sniper. The M45 and M90 shotguns are often utilized in close-quarters engagements. Once the weapon that defining the Marine Corps as the Unified Earth Government's spaceborne force-in-readiness, the Marine Corps has relegated the shotgun to less-visible duties with boarding parties, though the shotgun still remains an important weapon of close-quarters warfare.[39] The M739 SAW was also adopted in squad-support role.[40]

Anti-armor fire is provided by the M41 "SPNKR" rocket launcher, and more recently the M57 Pilum.[41] The Marines also uses the M6 Spartan Laser, though typically only ODSTs were issued these weapons prior to 2552 due to the high costs of the Spartan Laser at the time.[42] The Marine Corps also utilizes the XM510 grenade launcher.[43] Suppressive fire is provided by the M247 machine gun, the M247H machine gun, the AIE-486H machine gun, and mounted versions of the M41 "Vulcan".[44] The NA4 and M7057 flamethrowers are sometimes used in an anti-infantry role by specialists known as Hellbringers.[45] The M9 fragmentation grenade is the standard-issue hand grenade of the UNSC Marine Corps.[46] Several specialized grenades, as well as numerous types of landmines and explosive charges, are also used by Marine infantry. By 2557, the M363 sticky detonator and ARC-920 railgun has been added to the heavy weapons armory of the UNSC Marine Corps.[47]

Ground vehicles

Marines driving Warthogs through Mombasa

The UNSC Marines Corps' standard vehicle is the M12 Force Application Vehicle, which is used for armored patrols and personnel mobility. The M12 FAV is produced in several variants. The most common of these variants is the M12 Light Reconnaissance Vehicle, which is armed with an M41 Light Anti-Aircraft Gun. Light anti-vehicle support is provided by the M12G1 Light Anti-Armor Vehicle, which is armed with an M68 Gauss Cannon, the M12A1 Light Anti-Armor Vehicle, which is mounted with a 102mm SC-HE Rocket Turret, and the M12R Light Anti-Armor Vehicle, which features an M79 Multiple Launch Rocket System. The M831 Troop Transport serves as a fast, lightly armored transport vehicle for squads. The M274 Ultra-Light All-Terrain Vehicle is commonly used for scouting and light target interdiction.

For heavy engagements, the Marine Corps operates the M808B Main Battle Tank, which is armed with an M512 Smooth Bore High Velocity Cannon and an M247T Medium Machine Gun. In smaller numbers, the Marines also deployed the heavier M850 "Grizzly" Main Battle Tank—armed with two M310 smooth-bore high-velocity cannons and an M247T]—throughout the Insurrection and Human-Covenant War, but postwar logistical issues led the Marine Corps to retire the M850.[48] The M9 Main Anti-Air Tank is the Corps' primary mobile anti-air asset. The SP42 Cobra provides heavy anti-vehicle and anti-structure support. The M312 Heavy Recovery Vehicle provides heavy matériel recovery and troop transport.

Less standard vehicles also saw service with the Marine Corps during the Human-Covenant War. The M-145D Rhino was outfitted with a reverse-engineered plasma mortar. The Gremlin Combat Support Vehicle is used to disable enemy vehicles with its onboard EMP weapon. The Cyclops support exoskeleton was used both repair duties and logistical support, as well as in combat, though it was eventually retired from service. In recent years, the Mantis has been utilized by the Marines, with the Corp having contracted Materials Group to produce a refit package to allow alternate loadouts on the walker.[49]

Aircraft

The Marine Corps' most common aircraft is the Pelican dropship. The Pelican is used as a multirole aerodyne which is capable of carrying numerous armament configurations, including Scorpion anti-tank missiles, Anvil II air-to-surface missiles, as well as a chin-mounted 7.62mm machine gun, or a 40mm or 70mm autocannon. The Pelican can also be outfitted with an M247 or AIE-486H machine gun in its troop bay.

The UNSC Marine Corps operates the GA-TL1 Longsword as its primary fighter/interceptor and as a tactical bomber. The Corps also operates the Shortsword-class Bomber, which serves as a close air support aircraft. The Marines utilize the AV-14 Hornet as a light attack craft and gunship. Earlier in the war, the Marines also utilized the AV-22 Sparrowhawk as a close air support gunship, though it was largely retired from service due to problems with its propulsion system. The SkyHawk VTOL strike fighter is presumably used in a similar manner to the Longsword and Shortsword. Heavy air-to-ground support is provided by the AC-220 Vulture gunship. Marine air units are usually intended to support ground forces or to drop off vital equipment for the Marines, either in close-air-support or air interdiction roles, with the UNSC Navy and the UNSC Air Force taking on the dedicated air force role.[50]

Halo Wars gameplay

Marines are a playable unit in Halo Wars that can be built from a Barracks for 100 resources and one population slot. Armed with MA5B assault rifles and have the ability to throw M9 frag grenades. Marines are a jack of all trades, master of none-type unit typically used to counter aircraft. Marines have the following upgrades:

  • New Blood: Adds another Marine to the squad. Costs 200 resources and a tech level of 1.
  • RPG: Replaces the M9 frag grenade ability with M41 rocket launchers. Costs 400 resources and a tech level of 2.
  • Medic: Adds a Medic to the Marine squad allowing the unit to heal itself after battle. Costs 700 resources and a tech level of 3.
  • ODST: Turns all Marines into ODSTs (only available if Captain Cutter is the leader). Armed with M90 shotguns, ODSTs are able to be dropped in from drop pods. Costs 1800 resources and a tech level of 3.

Trivia

  • The UNSC Marine Corps shares many traits of its culture and organization with the modern-day U.S. Marine Corps. Like the USMC, the UNSCMC organizes its units into division sized forces, which are subdivided into regiments. Most other military forces of old Earth were subdivided into brigade-sized units, not divisions. In addition, every known UNSCMC rank corresponds directly to a USMC rank, and the enlisted and officer ranks that have been described imply that the exact same insignia are used as well. Semper Fi, the Latin motto used by the USMC, short for Semper Fidelis ("Always Faithful" or "Forever Faithful") is also used by the UNSCMC.[51] "Ooh Rah", a motivational call originating from the USMC is often said by Marines of the UNSCMC. Variations include "Hoo-ah", "Hooh-rah", and "Ooh-ah".
    • In the Halo: Combat Evolved level The Truth and Reconciliation, Captain Keyes tells a Marine to "Stow your bellyaching soldier -- remember, you're a leatherneck!" Leatherneck was a nickname earned by U.S. Marines in the era of the Continental Marines. The Marines would wear leather collars to provide protection from slashing attacks as they boarded enemy ships. Although an appropriate reference to Marines, the term "Leatherneck" and "soldier" are viewed by their respective service members as being incompatible, and a means of differentiating between service in the Marine Corps or Army.
  • The equipment and armor used by UNSC Marines resembles those used by the US Colonial Marines in the 1986 film Aliens, one of many similarities to the film in the Halo series. Additionally, the Marines' equipment bears some resemblance to the modern-day US Army's Future Force Warrior Program, and conceptually may have been inspired by it.
  • Bungie went to great lengths to ensure that the Marines reflected the diversity of Earth; some Marines look and sound American, while others appear Asian, African, Australian, Hispanic and European. Many were also modeled on members of Bungie's own staff members to provide further diversity in the universe.
  • In 2007, Bungie hired an actual Marine, Christian Allen, who served with the US Marines from 1995 to 1999, as a Design Lead.

Gallery

List of appearances

Sources

  1. ^ Halo: Spartan Assault, Quotes
  2. ^ Halo: Combat Evolved, campaign level, The Truth and Reconciliation
  3. ^ a b Halo: Escalation, Issue #1
  4. ^ Halo: Combat Evolved Manual
  5. ^ a b Halo Encyclopedia, page 54 (2011)
  6. ^ a b Halo: Fleet Battles, Core Rulebook - page 6
  7. ^ a b c Halo Waypoint: UNSC
  8. ^ Halo Encyclopedia, page 31 (2011)
  9. ^ a b Halo Encyclopedia, page 42 (2011)
  10. ^ Xbox.com, Halo Timeline
  11. ^ Halo: Contact Harvest, page 112
  12. ^ Halo: Contact Harvest
  13. ^ Halo Encyclopedia, page 57
  14. ^ Halo: Spartan Assault
  15. ^ Halo 4, Spartan Ops
  16. ^ Halo Waypoint: Canon Fodder - In the Zone
  17. ^ Halo: Evolutions, "Midnight in the Heart of Midlothian", page 82
  18. ^ Halo: Contact Harvest, page 111
  19. ^ Halo: Combat Evolved
  20. ^ Halo 2
  21. ^ Halo: The Fall of Reach
  22. ^ Halo: Contact Harvest, page 47
  23. ^ Halo 2
  24. ^ Bungie.net, ODST Field Guide
  25. ^ Halo 2, campaign level, Cairo Station
  26. ^ Halo: Contact Harvest
  27. ^ The Life
  28. ^ a b Halo Encyclopedia, page 49 (2011)
  29. ^ Halo: Combat Evolved, campaign level, 343 Guilty Spark
  30. ^ Halo Wars
  31. ^ Bungie.net: MA5C Assault Rifle
  32. ^ Halo Encyclopedia, page 318 (2011)
  33. ^ Halo 4: The Essential Visual Guide, page 61
  34. ^ Halo Waypoint: DMR
  35. ^ Halo Waypoint: Magnum
  36. ^ Bungie.net: M7 / Caseless Submachine Gun
  37. ^ Halo Waypoint: Sniper Rifle
  38. ^ Halo Graphic Novel, Page 122
  39. ^ Halo Waypoint: Shotgun
  40. ^ Halo 4: The Essential Visual Guide, page 58
  41. ^ Halo Waypoint: Rocket Launcher
  42. ^ Halo Waypoint: Spartan Laser
  43. ^ Halo Wars: Official Strategy Guide, page 35
  44. ^ Halo: The Essential Visual Guide, page 115
  45. ^ Halo: The Essential Visual Guide, page 69
  46. ^ Bungie.net: Grenade
  47. ^ Halo Waypoint: Railgun
  48. ^ Halo Waypoint: Grizzly
  49. ^ Halo Waypoint: Mantis
  50. ^ Letter - Re:Antilon Mine
  51. ^ Halo: The Flood