Members of the Spanish “Infanteria de Marina” or Spanish navy marines celebrated their service’s 478th birthday, while aboard the Military Sealift Command joint high-speed vessel USNS Spearhead (JHSV 1) Feb. 27.
Five Spanish navy marines are aboard Spearhead to support Africa Partnership Station 2015, enhancing training capabilities and interoperability with the other 21 partner nation participants.
Formed in 1537 by Charles I of Spain, the Spanish navy marines claim the title of the oldest marine corps in the world. The Spanish navy marines are Spain’s premier amphibious landing assault force. The distinguished marine force has seen action all over the world, including Santo Domingo (1804), Cuba (1898), and Morocco (1911).
Living up to its proud history, the “Infanteria de Marina” is a highly capable modern force with various specialties including artillery, rotary-wing aircraft and a special operations force.
The Spanish navy marines continue in their role as an elite amphibious force with a presence in Europe, Central America and Asia operating as an emergency evacuation force for civilians and capable deterrent to aggression.
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Image: US Navy