What is the primary mission of the Marine Corps Rifle Squad?

The primary mission of the Marine Corps Rifle Squad is to locate, close with, and destroy the enemy. This mission reflects the fundamental purpose of the Marine Corps as a combat organization, which emphasizes aggressive infantry tactics and the direct engagement of the enemy. The rifle squad is the primary organizational element responsible for executing this mission, operating as a cohesive unit that is trained to maneuver effectively on the battlefield and engage adversaries in various combat scenarios.

While reconnaissance and intelligence gathering are important aspects of military operations, they are not the primary focus of the rifle squad. The squad's main capability lies in its ability to close with the enemy and deliver decisive firepower, which is integral to achieving victory in ground combat. Providing logistical support is typically the responsibility of dedicated support units rather than the rifle squad, and while training other military branches can occur, this is not a defining mission of the rifle squad. Ultimately, the emphasis on locating and destroying the enemy highlights the Marine Corps' combat-centric approach and the vital role of the rifle squad in fulfilling this mission.