The following article is taken from the latest issue of the Globe & Laurel magazine.
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‘You don’t hurt ‘em if you don’t hit ‘em’ – USMC Legend Lt Gen Lewis ‘Chesty’ Puller
We need our Marines to be able to hit the target. While the imminent introduction of new weapons, such as the L403A1 rifle with L901A1x10 optic, will assist that requirement, no amount of technological advances will completely substitute for constructive ‘trigger time’. Marksmanship training is even more effective if it is delivered in an operationally relevant and enjoyable manner, within a shooting competition.
The Royal Marines Operational Shooting Competition (RMOSC) is a meticulously organised event that emphasises not only marksmanship, but also tactical skills, physical fitness and mental resilience. Organised and facilitated by Warfare Company’s Combat Marksmanship Team (CMT) in Specialist Wing, this competition is designed to replicate various combat scenarios, thereby preparing the Marines for real-life operational challenges. The events typically include a range of shooting disciplines, from long-range precision targeting to close-quarters combat, testing the participants’ accuracy, speed and decision-making skills under pressure.
The prestigious competition has evolved since the inaugural event in 1894 to incorporate advancements in weaponry and changes in combat tactics. This evolution has ensured that the training and competition remain relevant and effectively prepare the Marines for contemporary warfare. The equipment used in the competition reflects the standard in-service weaponry currently used across the Commando Force (CF); the SA80 A2 (or C8) and Glock 17 pistol. All teams use unmodified equipment, providing a fair and accurate representation of each Marine’s true shooting proficiency.
Twenty-four trophies are awarded at RMOSC, and all are competitively fought for. Each one holds significant prestigious value; however, the most coveted is arguably the 1st Royal Marines Memorial Trophy. This award goes to the team that achieves the highest score during the Fallen Comrades Assessment, demonstrating both speed and accuracy in a challenging sequence: a 300-metre casualty evacuation, before completing an ammo resupply and finally re-engaging in a firefight to overcome the enemy by knocking down falling plates.
RMOSC 23, held at Barry Buddon, was the first to be run since 2019 and included competitors from 40, 43 and 45 Cdos, CTCRM and RMR Scotland and notably the USMC’s shooting team entered as part of the marksmanship exchange exercise, Ex Longshot; with the RM Shooting Team competing in the USMC Eastern Division matches annually.
This year’s event saw the CMT introduce three innovative shoots. These included the ‘action’ rifle and ‘action’ pistol stage shoots, as well as the ‘precision’ rifle. The ‘action’ stage shoots are designed to provide the pinnacle of operational shooting, transitioning from practised range engagements to allowing shooters the freedom to strategise their approach upon entering the stage. The goal is to achieve maximum accuracy combined with speed. The ‘precision’ shoot, on the other hand, emphasises even greater accuracy, requiring more time for each shot. It challenges participants to hit much smaller targets at extended distances, up to 600 metres. These additions aim to broaden the Corps’ perspective on what can be accomplished within the CF.
The competition showcased some exceptional marksmanship from all the teams and competitors. However, the USMC shooting team’s demonstration of skill, was particularly impressive, considering their unfamiliarity with the SA80’s untraditional layout. While exhibiting these qualities, they succeeded in securing multiple trophies, both at the team and individual levels. This year, 45 Cdo Gp RM proudly clinched the coveted 1st Royal Marines Memorial Trophy, followed closely by the USMC and 40 Cdo RM.
The feedback from all those who took part was overwhelmingly positive and a big ‘shout out’ must go to those from around CF and wider afield, who supported RMOSC. At a time when workforce, commitments and transformation are making us even busier, it is highly reassuring to see Units prepared to commit ranks and resources in the name of marksmanship excellence.
Next year’s event is pencilled in for September – we hope to see you there.
Read more from the Journal of the Royal Marines
For more information, and to read similar stories, visit:
Globe & Laurel – RMA – The Royal Marines Charity (rma-trmc.org)
