Marine Reconnaissance is a specialized military occupational specialty within the United States Marine Corps.
Designated as MOS 0321, the role focuses on reconnaissance and surveillance in support of Marine Corps operations.
The position has specific eligibility requirements and a demanding training pipeline.
This article outlines the qualifications, training process, pay structure, daily responsibilities, and post-service considerations for Marine Recon Marines.
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Requirements and Qualifications
- Successfully complete Marine School of Infantry
- Have a GT score of 105 or higher on the ASVAB
- Have a first-class PFT score
- Have a first-class swimmer qualification
- Be a U.S. citizen
- Eyesight correctable to 20/20
- Normal color vision
- Be eligible for a secret clearance
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Training and Career Path
All Marines wanting to attempt the Marine recon indoctrination must first pass the Marine School of Infantry.
It is a 59-day training course that covers basic riflemen maneuvers, basic fire team formations, and weapons training.
Following the completion of this school, eligible Marines may attend the indoctrination for Marine recon, which is a 3-phase cycle that tests the willpower, dedication, and endurance of anyone who is seeking to be considered part of Marine reconnaissance.
The first phase of the indoctrination is primarily used as a proving ground for individuals.
Pass this 4-week phase and show that you have the heart and desire to be there, then you will move on to the second phase.
During the first phase, Marines are constantly tested and drilled to see who will quit, and who truly wants to remain through the rest of the training.
The second phase is 3 weeks long and isn’t any easier, but transitions more into teamwork.
Marines will have to prove that they can think through problems, work together as a team, and have the abilities to be effective communicators.
Finally, Marines will move on to the third phase, which is two weeks long and focuses on maritime missions.
Missions will evolve to include night raids, patrols, amphibious reconnaissance, boat operations, and nautical navigation.
Small unit tactics will be stressed, and Marines will once again have to prove that they can be effective communicators.
How Much Are They Paid?
Recon Marines receive base pay according to rank and time in service, with limited special pays applicable in certain circumstances.
The only time that they may see a pay bump is during training or while performing tasks associated with special training, i.e. SCUBA training or while in jump school.
This pay bump is known as hazard pay and will be exclusive for short periods of time.
Additionally, if a Marine, in any MOS, scores a 2/2 on the FLPT they will be eligible for special pay.
Other than these few examples, Marines in the 0321 MOS will receive the same base pay as everyone in the military.
Pay scales are determined annually and vary based on rank and years of service.
Day in the Life of a Recon Marine
Recon Marines will start their days out with physical training by swimming, running, hiking, or doing team workouts.
Physical training can last anywhere from an hour to multiple hours, depending on the squad and platoon.
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It can also be added to other training, such as fire team maneuvers, weapons tactics, or maritime operations.
The first review is from a reconnaissance Marine who gives a thorough review of what life as a 0321 Marine is like.
The second review is from a Marine infantryman who gives a positive review of what it is like to train as an infantryman, the gateway for being a recon Marine.
0321 Marines are highly trained and ready to take on any fight.
They train regularly with weapons and squad tactics and keep themselves incredibly fit and ready to go at a moment’s notice.
It is expensive to train and equip recon Marines, so the USMC makes sure to utilize these elite warriors as frequently as possible.
Recon Marines can be deployed for short periods of time to any number of countries where they may conduct various missions that support the overall mission of the United States military.
Deployment lengths and locations vary depending on unit assignments and operational needs.
While deployed, recon Marines may be involved in intense firefights or be tasked with helping to train foreign militaries.
Every deployment will be unique to each unit and the needs of the Marine Corps.
What People Get Wrong About Marine Recon (MOS 0321)
A common misconception is that Marine Recon is a separate branch within the Marine Corps. In reality, Reconnaissance Marines remain part of the infantry community and operate under established Marine Corps command structures.
Some people believe that all Recon Marines perform the same missions. Duties and assignments vary based on unit, training level, and operational requirements.
Another misunderstanding is that Recon Marines receive special base pay because of their role. Pay is determined by rank and time in service, with limited special pays applying only under specific conditions.
There is also confusion about career progression, with the assumption that Recon is an entry-level enlistment option. Marines must meet eligibility standards and complete required training before being designated MOS 0321.
Civilian Career Opportunities
Many reconnaissance Marines have found successful careers in government contracting, private security, and even careers in law enforcement following their time in service.
There are several accounts of Marines getting out of the service and doing anywhere from one to multiple tours as government contractors to continue the mission that they were doing while in the military.
One significant difference is that there is a significant pay increase for government contractors in comparison to military service members.
Of course, this is not always a long-term career option, so Marines with the training and discipline from the military may lean towards a career in law enforcement or working for a federal agency.
Reconnaissance experience may be relevant to certain civilian careers depending on individual qualifications and hiring standards.
Police officers are in high demand with a projected job growth of 3% and median annual salaries of around $66,020.
Federal agencies are also needing qualified individuals to join their ranks as more and more individuals hit their retirement age.
Some perspective agencies that could utilize recon Marines are the FBI, Border Patrol, DHS, DEA, and the U.S. Marshals.
These are all stable careers with the potential for longevity, good wages, and outstanding retirement benefits.
Of course, Marines leaving the USMC Force Recon are not restricted to careers in law enforcement.
There is always the option of utilizing the Post 9-11 GI Bill to attend college or career training programs for a large variety of jobs that are facing a shortage in the near future.
The discipline and dedication that it takes to be a reconnaissance Marine has also been beneficial to Marines who have chosen to pursue entrepreneurial lifestyles and build both small and large businesses.
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References
Enlistment Bonuses For 0321 Marines
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