What is the mission of the Marine Corps rifle squad?

The mission of the Marine Corps rifle squad centers on their primary combat role, which is to locate, close with, and destroy the enemy through direct fire and maneuver. This objective defines the squad's fundamental purpose on the battlefield, emphasizing their ability to engage in combat operations effectively.

This mission involves employing various tactics, techniques, and procedures to maneuver as a cohesive unit, using their individual skills to support one another in achieving common objectives. The squad's effectiveness in identifying enemy positions, executing maneuvers to close the distance, and engaging with overwhelming firepower is crucial in both offensive and defensive operations.

In contrast, objectives such as conducting reconnaissance missions, providing medical support, or training new recruits, while important in their own right, do not capture the central combat-focused mission of the rifle squad. Reconnaissance is often handled by designated units with specific capabilities; medical support is provided by Corpsmen and other medical personnel; and training of recruits typically falls under the purview of drill instructors and specialized training units rather than the operational responsibilities of a rifle squad.