The Marine Corps Americans Want Can’t Be Derailed by a Fake Crisis

The U.S. Marine Corps is not facing an existential crisis, despite claims from a vocal group of retired officers critical of its modernization efforts. The reform initiative, known as Force Design, was launched to prepare the service for a potential conflict with China and has received broad support from Congress and multiple presidential administrations. Critics' arguments that the Corps lost its purpose during the Global War on Terror are factually incorrect, as Marines remained central to crisis response. While the current Commandant is continuing the reforms, there is concern that a renewed focus on traditional Marine expeditionary units may divert resources from the more crucial 'stand-in force' concept needed for a future fight.