Marine Tanks: The Corps' Indispensable Asset

For the second time within 13 years the Marine Corps will disband one of its tank battalions. The liquidation of 3rd tank battalion in 1993 came shortly after the Corps largest use of tanks since World War II. This year, the Marine Corps will eliminate a number of units, including the 8th Tank Battalion, to better suit the fight in the global war on terrorism. As determined by the Marine Corps force structure review board in 2004, two companies and the headquarters element of this battalion will disband and force the Marine tank community to shrink from four active and reserve battalions to three total battalions. This restructuring could not come at a more inappropriate time for the Marine Corps. The need for Marine tanks in all aspects of operations is underestimated. In May of 2003, Marine tanks -- including activated reserve units -- paved the way to Baghdad. Recently, Marine tanks played a pivotal role in operation Phantom Fury, the largest combat operation on urban terrain since Marines fought in the streets of Huy City, Vietnam. Although Marine armor is a key component of the Ground Combat Element, the tank community continues to shrink, thus eliminating capabilities vital to the MAGTF. Regardless of the battlefield environment, the Marine on the ground will always need the fire support provided by the tanks survivable platform. Whether on peacekeeping missions or in deliberate attacks, no substitute exists for the Marine tank.