Camp Pendleton Marines Deployed to Arizona Border for Security Support

Marines from Camp Pendleton are once again heading to the southern border, this time bolstering efforts under the banner of Task Force Forge.

This new contingent, comprising 500 Marines and sailors from Combat Logistics Battalion 15, is tasked with providing vital engineering and logistical support.

Thier deployment follows a presidential executive order declaring a national emergency at the border, directing the Department of Defense to assist. This initiative aims to strengthen operational readiness and uphold national territorial integrity.

The Marines have undergone extensive training, working closely with the previous deployment, Task Force Sapper. This preparatory period ensures they are well-equipped for their mission.

Task Force Forge will establish its operational presence eastward into the Yuma sector. This strategic move is designed to enhance existing support activities in the region substantially.

Lt. Col. Colin Graham, commanding officer of Task Force Forge, stated that their mission is clear: to support federal partners and Joint Task Force-Southern Border with professionalism and precision.

This deployment echoes an earlier mission where 500 Marines and sailors from Camp Pendleton were sent to San Diego and El Paso earlier this year.That group, Task Force Sapper, tragically lost two Marines in a vehicle rollover incident in New Mexico.

what specific Title 10 authorities are being utilized to justify the deployment of Marines to the Arizona border?

Deployment Details & Mission Scope

As of July 15, 2025, a contingent of U.S. Marines from Camp Pendleton, California, has been deployed to the Arizona border to provide security support. This deployment is in response to ongoing concerns regarding border security and to assist Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agencies. While specific numbers are classified for operational security, sources confirm the deployment includes personnel from various military occupational specialties (MOS) within the Marine Corps, focusing on force protection and logistical support.

The primary mission isn’t direct law enforcement. Instead, Marines are augmenting CBP efforts by:

Establishing and maintaining security checkpoints.

Providing surveillance and detection capabilities.

Assisting wiht transportation and logistical needs.

Supporting the construction of temporary barriers and infrastructure.

This deployment is authorized under Title 10 authority, allowing the military to support civilian law enforcement agencies in specific, defined roles.It’s crucial to understand this is not a long-term militarization of the border, but a temporary measure to address current needs.

Camp Pendleton’s Role & NCIS Support

Marine corps Base Camp Pendleton serves as a major West Coast hub for Marine corps operations. The NCIS Marine Corps West Field Office, located on base (https://www.ncis.navy.mil/About-NCIS/Locations/NCIS-Marine-Corps-West-Field-Office/), plays a vital role in supporting these deployments. NCIS provides critical investigative support, counterintelligence, and security oversight for Marine Corps activities, including those along the border.

Their involvement ensures:

Personnel security and vetting.

Investigation of any potential criminal activity.

Protection against espionage or sabotage.

Compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.

the proximity of Camp Pendleton to the Arizona border makes it a logical staging and support base for this operation. Marines benefit from established logistical networks and readily available resources.

Specific Units Involved & Capabilities

While a complete roster isn’t publicly available, units known to have personnel involved in the deployment include:

1. 1st Marine Division: Providing core infantry support and security expertise.
2. Marine Logistics group (MLG): Handling transportation, supply, and maintenance needs.
3. marine Air Control Squadron (MACS): Offering aerial surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities.
4. Combat Logistics Battalions (CLB): Delivering essential logistical support to forward operating locations.

These units bring a diverse skillset to the border mission. Capabilities include:

Border Patrol Technology Integration: Marines are trained to operate and maintain various surveillance technologies used by CBP.

Force Protection Expertise: Extensive training in threat assessment, security protocols, and defensive tactics.

Rapid Response Capabilities: Ability to quickly deploy and respond to emerging situations.

Logistical Proficiency: Ensuring a consistent supply of resources to personnel on the ground.

Historical Precedent: Military Support to Border Security

Deploying the military to support border security isn’t unprecedented. Similar operations have occurred under different administrations, frequently enough in response to surges in illegal immigration or drug trafficking.

Operation Jump Start (2006-2008): National Guard troops where deployed to the Southwest border to assist CBP.

Border Support Missions (Various Years): Throughout the years, the military has provided intermittent support, including engineering assistance and surveillance technology.

These past deployments offer valuable lessons learned regarding logistical challenges, interagency coordination, and the importance of clearly defined roles and responsibilities. the current deployment aims to build upon these lessons and maximize effectiveness.

Impact on Camp Pendleton Operations

The deployment of Marines to the Arizona border does impact operations at Camp Pendleton. However, base officials emphasize that steps have been taken to minimize disruption to ongoing training and readiness exercises.

Adjusted Training Schedules: Some training events have been rescheduled or modified to accommodate the deployment.

Increased Operational Tempo: Remaining personnel may experience a higher operational tempo to maintain base security and readiness.

Family Support Services: Camp Pendleton’s family readiness centers are providing support to Marines and their families during the deployment.

Key Terms & Related Searches

Border Security: The overarching concern driving the deployment.

Camp Pendleton Marines: The specific unit involved in the operation.

Arizona Border: The geographical location of the deployment.

CBP Support: The role of the Marines in assisting Customs and Border Protection.

Title 10 Authority: The legal basis for military involvement in civilian law enforcement.

Military Deployment: General data about military deployments.

US-Mexico Border Crisis: The broader context of the situation.

Marine Corps Operations: Details about the Marine Corps’ mission and capabilities.

NCIS Investigation: The role of the Naval Criminal Investigative Service.

* Force Protection: Security measures taken to protect personnel and assets.