Capturing Courage: The US Marine Corps Combat Cameraman

The US Marine Corps (USMC) Combat Camera Units (COMCAM) deploys elite photographers and videographers into the heart of military action. These courageous Marines, tasked with capturing the intense realities of service, document the valor and sacrifices of their comrades in the thick of battle. Their mission goes beyond traditional media roles, integrating their work into the fabric of historic preservation, public perception, and troop morale.

A History of Visual Storytelling

Combat camera units’ roots can be traced as far back as World War I, when photographers were first assigned to document the conflict. However, the USMC Combat Camera as we know it today emerged in the latter half of the 20th century. With the advancement of technology, these visual military journalists have become increasingly vital to the Marine Corps’ mission.

From the jungles of Vietnam to the deserts of Iraq and Afghanistan, combat cameramen have been there to capture the human side of war. Also known as the visual architects, their images and videos have become iconic, shaping the public’s perception of military service and inspiring generations.

The typical duties of a combat camera include, but are not limited to:

• Visualizing the final product desired;
• Developing a shot list;
• Acquiring images in studio, field, and combat environments using the principles of photographic composition;
• Selecting and editing images for layout;
• Writing;
• Tailoring products for different audiences (i.e., internal, domestic, international) and mediums (briefs, traditional news media, social media, face-to-face engagements, handbills, etc.);
• supporting administrative, legal, investigation, and combat documentation;
• Conducting photographic finishing, visual and electronic quality control;
• Transmitting and archiving;
• Performing equipment inspections and preventive maintenance.

Becoming a Combat Cameraman: A Challenging Path

Becoming a USMC Combat Cameraman is no easy feat. Just like any other unit, it requires a unique blend of technical skill, courage, and dedication.

Of course, the first step is to enlist in the Marine Corps. Once you’ve completed recruit training and become a Marine, you can apply for the Combat Camera Military Occupational Specialty (MOS).

To qualify, you must meet the following basic requirements:

• Be a US citizen
• Be between the ages of 17 and 28
• Meet the Marine Corps physical fitness standards
• Possess a high school diploma or equivalent
• Have a strong interest/skills in photography, videography, or visual storytelling

The selection process is highly competitive, as the demand for combat cameramen often exceeds the number of available positions.

Other qualifications to be eligible for the role:

• ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery) test score under the General Technical (GT) segment of at least 100
• Pass the standard color vision test (should not be color blind)
• Security clearance (since the job will potentially handle sensitive images and information)

If you’re lucky (and skilled) enough to be selected, you will undergo rigorous training at the Marine Corps Combat Camera School at Fort Meade, Maryland.

Marines with proven photography skills through civilian training or work experience may be eligible for a shortened training course.

Training to Be a Visual Warrior

Combat Camera training is a demanding and immersive experience. Recruits learn a wide range of skills, including:

Photography and videography: Mastering various camera equipment and techniques in both still and motion formats.

Photo editing and video production: Developing skills in post-production to create compelling visual stories.

Combat skills: Undergoing rigorous physical training and weapons qualification to prepare for deployment.

Journalism and storytelling: Learning how to craft compelling narratives through images and videos.

Operational planning: Understanding the military decision-making process and how to support it visually.

Upon graduation, combat cameramen are assigned to units around the world, where they face the challenges of capturing the realities of military life while maintaining their own safety.

State-of-the-Art Gear for Extreme Conditions

USMC Combat Cameramen requires equipment that can withstand the rigors of combat while capturing high-quality images and videos.

Their gear is carefully selected to be durable, lightweight, and capable of operating in extreme environments.

Cameras: Depending on the mission, a mix of DSLR (Digital Single-Lens Reflex), mirrorless, and action cameras is used. These cameras must be rugged, weather-sealed, and capable of capturing high-resolution images and videos in low-light conditions.

Lenses: A variety of lenses are essential, from wide-angle lenses for capturing landscapes to telephoto lenses for capturing distant action.

Audio equipment: High-quality microphones are crucial for capturing clear sound, especially in noisy environments.

Lighting equipment: While natural light is often the primary source, portable lighting equipment can be necessary for specific situations.

Computers and editing software: For post-production work, combat cameramen rely on powerful laptops and professional editing software (such as Adobe Premiere Pro, Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop, and Dreamweaver).

Protective gear: Combat cameramen must wear the same protective equipment as other Marines, including body armor, helmets, and night vision goggles.

Shaping Public Opinion and Boosting Morale

The work of combat cameras has a significant impact on both public opinion and troop morale.

Combat cameramen bridge the gap between civilians and front-line soldiers by providing a visual narrative of military operations. Their images and videos humanize the war experience, inspiring empathy and support for the troops.

Simultaneously, these visual stories boost service members’ morale by demonstrating their courage, dedication, and accomplishments.

One powerful example of a combat camera’s influence on troop morale is its role in maintaining connections with family and loved ones. In the past, communication with deployed service members was limited to infrequent letters and occasional phone calls.

However, with the advent of digital media, combat cameramen can quickly capture and share images and videos of troops in action, training, and even relaxing moments. These visual updates provide a sense of connection and reassurance for families back home.

One of the most renowned Marine combat photographers is Sergeant Dennis Fisher, who served in Vietnam from 1967 to 1968. Initially an infantry rifleman, Fisher transferred to the photography MOS on the condition of extending his tour by six months.

During his deployment, Fisher captured iconic and harrowing moments of the conflict. He was there to witness some of the war’s most intense battles, including Operation Rock, Operation Baxter Garden, and Operation Allen Brook. The combat photographer veteran also witnessed firsthand the fierce fighting in Hue City during Operation No Name II, just to name a few.

USMC COMCAM: Courageous Combat Storytellers

The Marine Corps Combat Camera is a brotherhood of visual warriors. These are the storytellers who risk their lives to capture the raw essence of combat, the camaraderie of Marines, and the sacrifices made for the country.

Their images are more than photographs; they are time capsules, emotional triggers, and historical documents.

With cameras as their weapons, they shape perceptions, inspire nations, and honor the fallen.

The Combat Camera is the beating heart of visual storytelling in the Marine Corps, a legacy etched in every frame.

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Disclaimer: SOFREP utilizes AI for image generation and article research. Occasionally, it’s like handing a chimpanzee the keys to your liquor cabinet. It’s not always perfect and if a mistake is made, we own up to it full stop. In a world where information comes at us in tidal waves, it is an important tool that helps us sift through the brass for live rounds.