0372 critical skills operator

Scheduled for activation on October 1, 2011, the Marine Occupational Specialty (MOS) was established with the primary mission of serving as the core job field for Special Operations Infantry Marines within the Marine Corps Special Operations Command (MARSOC). MARSOC aims to reach a target of approximately 850 Critical Skills Operators (CSOs) to fully equip 48 operational Marine Special Operations Teams.

In addition to mastering fundamental infantry skills, these individuals are entrusted with honing highly specialized scouting and patrolling proficiencies. They are required to demonstrate advanced expertise in various areas, including scout swimming, small boat operations, close combat techniques, airborne operations, surface and sub-surface insertion and extraction tactics, assault climbing, demolitions, forward observer procedures to coordinate supporting arms, initial terminal guidance operations for heliborne assaults, airborne insertion techniques, and a diverse range of waterborne operations.

Moreover, this MOS specialization encompasses the fields of communications, photography, threat weapons and equipment recognition, as well as diverse forms of point, area, and interconnected ground amphibious reconnaissance operations. Marines assigned to assault teams are equipped with advanced skills in assault weaponry, breaching demolitions, close-quarter combat tactics, and raid methodologies.