Deployed Marines Get ‘Expeditionary’ Titles

WASHINGTON — The Marines may be known for their ability to conduct amphibious assaults--attacking from ocean to land--but their commandant thinks the word “expeditionary” has a better ring.

Gen. Alfred M. Gray, with the blessing of Navy Secretary James H. Webb, said Friday he was changing the formal military designation for Marine units being deployed on various missions.

Effective Friday, a Marine Amphibious Brigade became a Marine Expeditionary Brigade. Similarly, a Marine Amphibious Force became a Marine Expeditionary Force.