21st Century U.S. Military Manuals: U.S. Marine Corps (USMC) War Crimes - Marine Corps Reference Publication (MCRP) 4-11.8B

Part of our value-added professional format series of U.S. military manuals, this U.S. Marine Corps manual identifies specific actions that violate the Law of War. It describes the responsibility of every Marine.

Throughout our Nation's history, we have come to the rescue of oppressed peoples. The Marine Corps, as an elite force, has been called upon time and again to defeat the oppressors. While we Marines fight swiftly and aggressively, we also conduct our military operations with respect toward both the liberated people and the vanquished foe. Compliance with the Law of War is not only required under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ), but is also absolutely essential to mission accomplishment. Compliance encourages the civilian populace to cooperate with the Marines and turn-in the foe. It also facilitates the surrender of the enemy, by offering humane treatment rather than a continued fight for a lost cause.

Just as importantly, compliance with the Law of War and the quick reporting of war crimes supports our Nation's values and the purpose behind our involvement in any conflict. To extend freedom, democracy, and the rule of law, we must remain true to the Law of War, to include our international law obligations. America is trusted by the world to do the right thing, and so must be the United States Marines. Following the rules, including the rules in warfare, must be a part of our warrior ethos. The application of honor, courage, and commitment in the conduct of military operations means: the honor to comply with the Laws of War, the courage to report all violations, and the commitment to discipline the violators.

As a bonus, this reproduction includes the Marine Corps Manual, the basic publication of the United States Marine Corps issued by the Commandant of the Marine Corps and approved by the Secretary of the Navy - sold separately for $7.99. It is a regulatory publication for the Department of the Navy as defined in U.S. Navy Regulations. The Marine Corps Manual is designed primarily for use by Marine Corps commanders and their staffs, Navy officers exercising command over Marines, the staff of the Commandant of the Marine Corps, and the staffs of the bureaus and offices of the Navy Department. Contents: Chapter 1 - General Administration And Management * Chapter 2 - Manpower * Chapter 3 - Operations And Readiness * Chapter 4 - Logistics