United States Marine Corps Duty Stations by Military Occupational Specialty (MOS)
The United States Marine Corps (USMC) is a branch of the US Armed Forces responsible for providing power projection from the sea, utilizing the mobility of the US Navy to rapidly deliver combined-arms task forces to any region of the world. With a wide range of Military Occupational Specialties (MOS), Marines can be assigned to various duty stations around the globe. In this article, we will explore the different duty stations by MOS and provide an overview of what to expect.
MOS Categories and Duty Stations
The USMC categorizes its MOS into several groups, each with its unique set of duties and responsibilities. Here are some of the main MOS categories and their corresponding duty stations:
Infantry (03) MOS
- 0311: Rifleman - Duty stations: Camp Pendleton, CA; Camp Lejeune, NC; Okinawa, Japan; and various expeditionary units
- 0341: Mortarman - Duty stations: Camp Pendleton, CA; Camp Lejeune, NC; Okinawa, Japan; and various expeditionary units
- 0351: Infantry Assaultman - Duty stations: Camp Pendleton, CA; Camp Lejeune, NC; Okinawa, Japan; and various expeditionary units
Artillery (08) MOS
- 0811: Field Artillery Cannoneer - Duty stations: Camp Lejeune, NC; Camp Pendleton, CA; Okinawa, Japan; and various expeditionary units
- 0844: Field Artillery Fire Control Man - Duty stations: Camp Lejeune, NC; Camp Pendleton, CA; Okinawa, Japan; and various expeditionary units
Aircraft Maintenance (61) MOS
- 6112: Aircraft Hydraulic/Pneudraulic Mechanic - Duty stations: Cherry Point, NC; Beaufort, SC; Yuma, AZ; and various expeditionary units
- 6151: Aircraft Maintenance Administrator - Duty stations: Cherry Point, NC; Beaufort, SC; Yuma, AZ; and various expeditionary units
Aviation (62) MOS
- 6214: Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Operator - Duty stations: Twentynine Palms, CA; Yuma, AZ; and various expeditionary units
- 6230: Aviation Ordnance Technician - Duty stations: Cherry Point, NC; Beaufort, SC; Yuma, AZ; and various expeditionary units
Communications (25) MOS
- 2511: Switchboard Operator - Duty stations: Camp Pendleton, CA; Camp Lejeune, NC; Okinawa, Japan; and various expeditionary units
- 2541: Telecommunications Systems Chief - Duty stations: Camp Pendleton, CA; Camp Lejeune, NC; Okinawa, Japan; and various expeditionary units
📍 Note: These are just a few examples of duty stations by MOS. Marines can be assigned to various other locations, and duty stations can vary depending on the needs of the Corps.
Types of Duty Stations
Marines can be assigned to various types of duty stations, including:
- Barracks: Marines live in barracks, which are dormitory-style housing units, usually located on base.
- Ships: Marines can be assigned to ships, such as amphibious assault ships, aircraft carriers, and destroyers.
- Expeditionary units: Marines can be assigned to expeditionary units, which are specialized units that deploy to various locations around the world.
- Combat zones: Marines can be deployed to combat zones, such as Afghanistan or Iraq.
- Forward operating bases: Marines can be assigned to forward operating bases (FOBs), which are remote bases located in combat zones.
What to Expect at a Duty Station
When assigned to a duty station, Marines can expect:
- Training: Marines will receive training specific to their MOS, as well as general military training.
- Duty hours: Marines will work varying duty hours, depending on the needs of the unit.
- Physical fitness: Marines are expected to maintain a high level of physical fitness, and will participate in regular physical training (PT) sessions.
- Uniform and equipment: Marines will be issued uniforms and equipment specific to their MOS and duty station.
- Living arrangements: Marines will be provided with living arrangements, such as barracks or shipboard accommodations.
🏠 Note: Living arrangements can vary depending on the duty station and availability of housing.
Deployment
Marines can be deployed to various locations around the world, depending on the needs of the Corps. Deployments can range from a few months to a year or more, and can involve combat, humanitarian, or peacekeeping missions.
Choosing a Duty Station
While Marines cannot always choose their duty station, they can express preferences during the assignment process. Factors to consider when choosing a duty station include:
- Location: Consider the location of the duty station and its proximity to family and friends.
- MOS: Consider the specific duties and responsibilities of the MOS, and whether they align with your career goals.
- Deployment tempo: Consider the deployment tempo of the unit, and whether it aligns with your personal and professional goals.
🗺️ Note: Duty station preferences are not always guaranteed, and Marines should be prepared to serve wherever the Corps needs them.
Conclusion
The USMC offers a wide range of duty stations by MOS, each with its unique set of duties and responsibilities. By understanding the different MOS categories and duty stations, Marines can make informed decisions about their careers and deployments. Whether assigned to a barracks, ship, or expeditionary unit, Marines can expect a challenging and rewarding experience that prepares them for success in the Corps and beyond.
What is the most common duty station for Marines?
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Camp Pendleton, CA, is one of the most common duty stations for Marines, as it is home to the I Marine Expeditionary Force (I MEF) and the 1st Marine Division.
Can Marines choose their duty station?
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While Marines cannot always choose their duty station, they can express preferences during the assignment process. However, duty station preferences are not always guaranteed, and Marines should be prepared to serve wherever the Corps needs them.
What is the typical deployment tempo for Marines?
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The typical deployment tempo for Marines varies depending on the unit and MOS. However, Marines can expect to deploy for 6-12 months at a time, with some units deploying more frequently.
