Ground combat element

In the United States Marine Corps, the Ground combat element is the land force of a Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF). It provides power projection and force for the MAGTF.

Role within the MAGTF
The GCE has the mission of locating, closing with and destroying the enemy with fire and maneuver and repelling the enemies assault with fire and close combat. It provides infantry, armor, artillery, reconnaissance, anti-tank and other combat arms. Often, a GCE will have organic combat engineers, snipers, forward air controllers, communication and other support functions attached.

Organization
The size of the GCE varies in proportion to the size of the MAGTF. A Marine Expeditionary Force has a division (MARDIV). A Marine Expeditionary Brigade holds an infantry Regiment, often reinforced with equipment and personnel from units (such as armor and artillery). The various Marine Expeditionary Units command a reinforced infantry battalion. Generally, MEF postings are permanent, while MEBs and MEUs rotate their GCE, ACE, and LCE twice annually.

1st Marine Division
GCE of I Marine Expeditionary Force

2nd Marine Division
GCE of II Marine Expeditionary Force

3rd Marine Division
GCE of III Marine Expeditionary Force

4th Marine Division
GCE of Marine Forces Reserve