A rifle squad is composed of how many Marines?

The composition of a rifle squad in the Marine Corps is standardized to include 13 Marines. This number reflects a balanced structure that allows for effective teamwork and mission execution. A typical rifle squad is organized with a squad leader overseeing and coordinating the activities of the Marines, along with riflemen and various support roles including an automatic rifleman, a designated marksman, and a corpsman. This arrangement ensures that the squad can maintain combat effectiveness while fulfilling various tactical roles during operation.

The specific structure of 13 Marines is essential for maximizing the capabilities and versatility of the squad, allowing it to operate effectively in various combat situations. Each role within the squad is crucial for ensuring that they can adapt to different missions while maintaining cohesive unit integrity.