POST OF THE
CORPS
The Kingdom of Denmark
Marines Jump at Chance to Serve
In the Shadow of Vikings
By P.T. Brent
“I am proud of the young men in E
mbassy Copenhagen’s Marine Security Guard
Detachment. It’s not just a question of
feeling more secure with the Marines
manning Post 1, which I do, of course. It’s
what they contribute to our diplomatic
mission in a broader sense. They are the
first Americans that embassy visitors meet,
and they represent our country extremely
well. They are the embodiment of
American patriotism. They are also an integral
part of our internal embassy community.”
—James P. Cain
U.S. Ambassador to Denmark
The architecturally
distinctive Copenhagen
city hall serves to
remind leathernecks in
the American Embassy
Marine Security Guard
Detachment that they
have a unique opportunity
to serve their country and
Corps while experiencing
a different culture and
learning a new language.
What a deal … being an MSG—a
Marine security guard—based at
the American Embassy in Copenhagen, Denmark.
“The art of diplomacy is telling your
familyandfriendsyouarebeingsentaway
to embassy duty in Scandinavia and not
grinning,” said one veteran Marine officer.
Whatachancetoseethe world, experience
different cultures and people, learn languages and have a unique job that really
counts.
Marine security guards are all volunteers. They are outstanding Marines chosen from the best the Corps has to offer.
Mature young Americans, on the average,
they have completed one tour in the Marine Corps prior to this handpicked State
Department duty. Unmarried, except for
the detachment commander, and provided
security clearances before they become
an embassy or consulate watchstander,
these Marines are “Ambassadors in Blue.”
P. T. BRENT
For many, this is a pivotal moment. It is
the duty assignment that will decide if
they will commit to a long-term career as
a leatherneck. Not all candidates graduate
from the training. Their appearance, ci
vil-ian attire (paid for by the Marine Corps),
maturity and a record of no previous violations all goes into the evaluation during
the training at the Marine Security Guard
School in Quantico, Va. Each Marine who
graduates earns the seal of approval and
