What's the difference between being enlisted and an officer in the Marines?

I've been looking into joining the Marines and I'm trying to understand the difference between being enlisted and being an officer. What are the main differences in terms of duties, training, and career advancement?

These are great questions, as understanding the roles of both enlisted Marines and officers is crucial before joining the service.

Enlisted Marines and officers serve different but equally vital roles in the Marines' mission. Enlisted Marines make up the majority of the Marine Corps and are responsible for carrying out military operations, keeping equipment and installations in order, and executing orders. They go through boot camp and then are trained in a specific occupational specialty.

Marine officers, on the other hand, are leaders. They are trained to lead Marines in combat and to provide them with the motivation, guidance, and inspiration necessary for the effective functioning of the Marine Corps. They attend Officer Candidate School (OCS), which focuses on leadership and tactics, and then go on to more specialized training.

Career advancement also varies between the two paths. Enlisted Marines advance through ranks, starting from Private and potentially reaching Sergeant Major. This career progression often involves increasing responsibilities and leadership roles, and advancement is typically based on time in service, performance evaluations, and the needs of the Marines.

Marine officers also advance in rank, beginning as a Second Lieutenant and potentially reaching General. Advancement among officers tends to be competitive and is based on performance evaluations, professional military education, and the needs of the service.

Ultimately, your decision between pursuing a path as an enlisted Marine or an officer may depend on your long-term goals, educational background, and desire to take on a leadership role. In both cases, serving in the Marines will likely provide a variety of experiences and opportunities for personal and professional growth.