U.S. Marines Are in the Middle East. Here’s How Trump Could Use Them | WSJ (Level 1)

The United States military has a special group called the Marine Expeditionary Unit, or MEU. This group is like a Swiss army knife because it can do many different jobs. An MEU has about 2,200 Marines and sailors. They travel on three large ships. These ships act like a moving base. They carry airplanes, helicopters, boats, and trucks. Because they live on the ships, the Marines can start missions very fast. Right now, an MEU is in the Middle East. The President can use this group in many ways. The Marines can protect important water roads so safe ships can pass. They can also guard buildings, stop dangerous ships, or take control of small islands. Sometimes, the military uses them as a trick to make the enemy look the wrong way. More soldiers are arriving soon to help with these important jobs.