WASHINGTON, D.C. --
memorandum
SMMC MEMO 01-23
There has been a generations-long debate on how to determine what a proficient Marine is.
Is it the field Marine or the garrison Marine? Is it MOS-related or what we learn in PME? Is it the squared-away Marine or the slightly out-of-standards Marine that is great at a skill? In each case there is only one answer. The best Marine, who is best at being a Marine, is the best Marine.
This discussion is better described by understanding what proficiency means in terms of what is expected of a Marine.
For clarity, the title Marine includes both officer and enlisted. More specifically, anyone who has earned the title Marine has certain expectations. In Officers Candidate School, Ductus Exemplo “Set the Example,” is the overarching theme. In recruit training, the Senior Drill Instructor speech details the expectations, in particular, “you must strive constantly to be the best at everything you do.” Both of these key elements in our initial MAKING of a Marine are essential to proficiency.
Setting the example means to do what is right, the right way at the right time, always. A Marine cannot wear a service uniform without exacting precision and adherence to the most stringent standards, and then expect those they lead to follow a preflight checklist with a different level of precision as they themselves wear their uniform. In both cases, to be proficient in one develops a standing expectation of the other. Likewise, those who prefer to excel in personal endeavors like hobbies, higher education or personal fitness over their MOS typically perform substandard as a Marine.
Proficiency is truly about the whole Marine concept.
“Everything we teach you is important and must be remembered.” Beginning day one of the transformation starts a journey of learning. It is important how a Marine makes a rack, squares away their uniform, and learns the illustrious history of the Marine Corps. Starting day one, proficiency in marksmanship, drill, and swimming form a portion of the basis of our warfighting ethos.
These elements, amongst many others, are a lifelong endeavor to strive to be the best in everything a Marine does. In the same fashion, with every bit as much enthusiasm and vigor, mastery in a Marine’s MOS, advanced skills, higher education, PME, or qualifications are EQUALLY as important but no more so than anything Marines are taught.
Arguably, to truly be proficient means to set the example and maintain the exacting nature and expectation associated with remembering everything Marines are taught. Such an expectation is the bedrock that has, for more than 247 years, resulted in success in combat.
Proficiency is more than skill and more than adherence to orders and regulations. It is the combination of both. It’s striving for perfection knowing no mortal has ever achieved it. This means in all things we do. To be a Marine means being even more than just proficient, it means to strive for perfection.
Semper Fidelis,
TROY E. BLACK
Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps