Trump Admin Sending Hundreds of Marines
Marines Deployed to Support ICE Operations
The U.S. military announced the deployment of 200 Marines to Florida to assist Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) with logistical and administrative tasks. This move is part of U.S. Northern Command’s (USNORTHCOM) broader support effort.
“Service members participating in this mission will perform strictly non-law enforcement duties within ICE facilities,” USNORTHCOM clarified.
Strictly Support Roles
The Marines, from Marine Wing Support Squadron 272 in North Carolina, will not have contact with detainees or participate in enforcement actions.
“These service members… will provide logistical support, and conduct administrative and clerical functions associated with the processing of illegal aliens at ICE detention facilities,” Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell stated.
He emphasized: “They will not directly participate in law enforcement activities.”
Earlier Deployment and Political Response
In June, 700 Marines were sent to Los Angeles amid protests against ICE deportation raids. The deployments faced criticism from California leaders.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and Governor Gavin Newsom opposed the presence of troops, saying it risked inflaming tensions.
A Broader Strategy
This operation marks the first wave of support for ICE in states including Louisiana and Texas, following a June decision by the Pentagon to allow up to 700 military personnel to assist.
“Approximately 200 Marines… are conducting a movement to Florida to augment ICE’s interior immigration enforcement mission,” USNORTHCOM wrote.
