Please join the Atlantic Council’s Brent Scowcroft Center on International Security for a discussion with Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. James F. Amos.
In an era of divergent threats and decreased budgets, the United States military is pressed to formulate an overarching strategy that maximizes the limited resources available. The Marine Corps, the nation’s smallest military branch, will have to confront these challenges with an even smaller end-strength level around 175,000 and twenty-one Marine infantry combat battalions. Gen. Amos recently described this new force under his command as a “moderate risk” force. He continued, “What this means is your Marine Corps would be all in” should a large contingency operation take place. Questions about the Marines Corps’ readiness and ability “to go from boot camp to battlefield” now abound. In his remarks, Gen. Amos will outline how the Marine Corps can help defend the United States’ interests with a smaller force.
On October 22, 2010,General James F. Amos assumed the duties of Commandant of the Marine Corps. His personal decorations include the Navy Distinguished Service Medal, Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit with Gold Star, Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal, and the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal.