G.I. Joe Classic Collection USMC Force Recon Figure 1998 Hasbro #81455 NRFB

U.S.M.C. FORCE RECON

Being the 'first to fight' is a proud Marine Corps tradition. The Corps' has led the way onto some of history's best defended beaches, through jungles alive with malaria and snipers, and over some of the worst real estate soldiers could ever hope to contest. They have taken the unassailable, held the indefensible, and have accomplished the impossible. Trained and equipped primarily to carry out integrated land, sea, and air operations, they do so in all varieties of geography and with many different types of weaponry. Marines have always considered themselves the elite of the four branches. Nevertheless, their superior training, dogged determination, and raw courage are tested to the extreme when an enemy is battle hardened, well-entrenched and expecting an attack.

That is why the Marine 'Force Recon' considers itself the elite of the elite. Their skill as soldiers is unsurpassed and the accurate, advanced information they provide often means the difference between life and death. This is particularly true when engaging in hostage situations or personnel rescue missions. Since these 'Low Intensity Conflicts' usually involve assaulting a well-armed enemy behind-the-lines, the element of surprise is critical. One wrong move can cost the lives of Marines or innocent captives. Following the aborted attempt to rescue the Iranian hostages in 1980, the Marine Corps launched an intensive training program to prepare for similar situations in the future. The result has been the formation of Marine Expeditionary Units which are comprised of a number of elite units, including Force Recon Marines. These Marine Expeditionary Units have been strategically stationed in some of the world's most troubled areas.

During the Gulf War, two small teams of Force Recon Marines were cut off when Iraqi armor overran the little Saudi town of Khalji. For two days, the Marines were on the move, eluding the Iraqis as they spotted for coalition artillery from building tops. With lethal, pinpoint accuracy, the Recon Teams radioed coordinates that repeatedly resulted in direct hits on armor or loaded personnel carriers. At times, the enemy was so close, the Marines had to whisper into the radio to avoid detection. Khafji was soon retaken and the Marines were rescued. Their daring communication resulted in the destruction of at least eighteen armored personnel carriers and an unknown number of enemy casualties.

Force Recon is often among the first to be deployed in the defense of American lives and American interests.

Limited Edition USMC Force Recon - African American with Dark Hair and Brown Eyes - Equipment List: Boonie style hat, Shirt, Pants, Web belt, Backpack with frame, Boots, Radio with antenna and handset, Dog tags - Ages 5 and Up - Hasbro 1998

The tape has been broken on the top of the box. There are some signs of wear especially on the corners. Some pieces are loose in the box, but all are accounted for inside.