Members of First Recon: The Elite Unit Behind Enemy Lines

The United States Marine Corps' First Reconnaissance Battalion (1st Recon) is an elite special operations unit that conducts reconnaissance, surveillance, and direct action missions deep behind enemy lines. 1st Recon is part of the Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command (MARSOC) and is one of the most highly trained and experienced units in the U.S. military.

History of 1st Recon

1st Recon was activated on February 15, 1942, as the 1st Amphibious Reconnaissance Battalion. The unit participated in numerous campaigns during World War II, including the landings at Guadalcanal, Tarawa, and Okinawa. After the war, 1st Recon was deactivated but was reactivated in 1953 for service in the Korean War.

In the Vietnam War, 1st Recon conducted numerous reconnaissance and surveillance missions in North Vietnam and Laos. The unit also participated in several high-profile operations, including the Son Tay Raid and the Mayaguez Incident. After the Vietnam War, 1st Recon was again deactivated and was not reactivated until 1983.

Since its reactivation in 1983, 1st Recon has participated in numerous deployments around the world, including operations in Grenada, Panama, Iraq, and Afghanistan. The unit has also provided security for high-level officials, including presidents and foreign dignitaries.

Training of 1st Recon

Members of 1st Recon undergo rigorous training that includes:

• Basic Reconnaissance Course
• Advanced Reconnaissance Course
• Sniper Course
• Close-Quarter Battle Course
• Military Freefall Course
• Combat Diver Course

Members of 1st Recon must also maintain a high level of physical fitness and must be able to operate in a variety of environments, including jungle, desert, and mountain terrain.

Missions of 1st Recon

1st Recon conducts a variety of missions, including:

• Reconnaissance
• Surveillance
• Direct Action
• Hostage Rescue
• Counterterrorism
• Foreign Internal Defense

1st Recon is also capable of conducting long-range reconnaissance patrols and can operate behind enemy lines for extended periods of time.

Equipment of 1st Recon

1st Recon is equipped with a variety of weapons and equipment, including:

• M4A1 Carbine
• M249 SAW
• M240B Machine Gun
• MK19 Automatic Grenade Launcher
• Javelin Anti-Tank Missile
• AN/PRC-152A Handheld Radio
• AN/PVS-31 Night Vision Goggles
• AN/PRC-148 Multi-Band Inter/Intra Team Radio

1st Recon also uses a variety of vehicles, including:

• Humvee
• MRAP
• LAV-25
• CH-53E Super Stallion

Notable Members of 1st Recon

Several members of 1st Recon have gone on to become distinguished military leaders, including:

• General Alexander M. Haig Jr.
• General James L. Jones
• General Anthony C. Zinni
• General John F. Kelly

Conclusion

1st Recon is an elite unit that is capable of conducting a wide range of missions in support of the U.S. Marine Corps and the United States. The unit is highly trained and experienced, and its members are equipped with the latest weapons and equipment. 1st Recon is a valuable asset to the U.S. military, and its members have a long history of honorable service.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main mission of 1st Recon?

The main mission of 1st Recon is to conduct reconnaissance, surveillance, and direct action missions deep behind enemy lines.

How long does it take to become a member of 1st Recon?

It typically takes several years to become a member of 1st Recon. The training pipeline is rigorous, and only the most qualified candidates are selected.

What is the attrition rate for 1st Recon training?

The attrition rate for 1st Recon training is high. It is not uncommon for more than half of the candidates to drop out during the training pipeline.

What are the benefits of being a member of 1st Recon?

The benefits of being a member of 1st Recon include:

• High levels of training and experience
• The opportunity to serve in a variety of missions
• The chance to work with some of the most elite operators in the U.S. military
• The opportunity to make a difference in the world