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<span> <p> <img style="float: none;" src="http://assets2.marines.com/assetmgr/image/disp/inline/size/460x259/id/3520" alt="The Officer's Dress Blue Uniform" />Marines are known by the distinctive dress blue uniform, worn by both enlisted Marines and officers. Dress blues are worn for many events, including ceremonies with foreign officials, visits with U.S. civil officials and while attending formal social functions in an official capacity.<hr />All Marine Corps Officers began carrying the Mameluke sword in 1825. It was originally presented in gratitude to First Lieutenant Presley O'Bannon in 1805 by Prince Hamet Bey, a Mameluke chieftain. O'Bannon led Marines to a decisive victory at the Battle of Derna, restoring Bey to his rightful throne. Marine Officers carry the sword for many occasions, including parades, military ceremonies and other formal events.<hr />This cross-shaped braid atop officersâ�� covers - the Marine Corps term for hats - became part of the uniform in 1859. It's modeled after the earlier tradition of sewing crossed pieces of rope to officers' covers so that sharpshooters in the rigging would avoid shooting their own officers.<hr />Officer candidates cannot accept the appointment as a Marine Corps Officer until they have taken the oath. When candidates become officers, they accept a great responsibility. The oath officially changes the status of a civilian to an officer. Officers take a different oath than enlisted Marines, which signifies the distinctive responsibilities that an officer must accept. The officer oath is the same oath that the Vice President of the United States takes when accepting office. <hr />Now the official emblem of the Marine Corps since 1868, the Eagle, Globe and Anchor has symbolized a dedication to service in the air, on land and at sea. Individually, the eagle represents the United States, the globe represents service throughout the world and the anchor represents naval tradition. Marines wear the emblem on their uniforms at all times. Officers wear the two-toned emblem pictured here on their dress blues. <hr /> </p> </span>

The Marine Corps Officer is a leader, a warrior and an upstanding citizen instilled with the special trust and confidence of our nation to lead its expeditionary force.

Distinguished by a Commission

Officers are college graduates who have earned and accepted an appointment by the President of the United States. Their commission gives them the responsibility of leading Marines as they defend the Constitution of the United States.

Trained by Leaders to Be Leaders

During initial training, Marine Officers learn from experienced senior officers. Then, specialized training instructors will help them refine skills in their specific field. This process ensures that new officers can lead from the front.

Learn more about The Marine Officer and the Marine Corps Officer Program

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Marines. The Few. The Proud.

The Marine Officer

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Distinguished by a Commission

Trained by Leaders to Be Leaders