Made in 1967, “The Modern Marine” shows United States Marine Corps recruits undergoing basic training in the United States. Various specialties are shown as well as special weapons such as the The Ontos, officially the Rifle, Multiple 106 mm, Self-propelled, M50, U.S. light armored tracked anti-tank vehicle developed in the 1950s, a fast tank killer for airborne forces. The film also includes training for mechanics, gunners, radio communications specialists, and more. The USMC San Diego training facility is also shown. One fascinating aspect of this film is that it shows electronics testing and repair, and shows the MTS Marine Tactical System, a million dollar integrated computer system. At the 10 minute mark Marine F-4s are seen as well as other aircraft, and the Marine school at Memphis, Tennessee for aircraft mechanics. The film ends with a beach landing at Camp Pendleton.
The ONTOS mounted six M40 106 mm recoilless rifles as its main armament, which could be fired in rapid succession against single targets to guarantee a kill. It was produced in limited numbers for the U.S. Marines after the U.S. Army lost interest in the project. The Marines consistently reported excellent results when they used the Ontos for direct fire support against infantry in numerous battles and operations during the Vietnam War. The American stock of Ontos was largely expended towards the end of the conflict and the Ontos was removed from service in 1969.
Marine Corps stand in line with rifles in hand during World War I. The Marines used carrier pigeons as a means to transfer messages. A Marine walks with pigeon in cage behind his back. Group of Marines use the radio. Early aircraft parked on field. The Modern Marine fires rifle. Technicians work on aircraft engine. Group of Marines patrolling. Marines undergo training as a rifleman. They pass through various hurdles as part of their training program. Marines fire machine guns.
We encourage viewers to add comments and, especially, to provide additional information about our videos by adding a comment! See something interesting? Tell people what it is and what they can see by writing something for example like: “01:00:12:00 — President Roosevelt is seen meeting with Winston Churchill at the Quebec Conference.”
This film is part of the Periscope Film LLC archive, one of the largest historic military, transportation, and aviation stock footage collections in the USA. Entirely film backed, this material is available for licensing in 24p HD and 2k. For more information visit http://www.PeriscopeFilm.com
