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Direct Action Platoons (DAP)

Direct Action Platoons are highly-trained elements of an already elite unit, the Force Reconnaissance teams of the United States Marine Corps. Members of Direct Action Platoons are parachute qualified. Marines attached to DAP are trained in a wide variety of insertion techniques, including static-line and HALO parachuting They train not only on aircraft, but CH-46E Sea Knight helicopters as well. This capability is necessary due to the nature of USMC operations. Often operating far from fixed-wing air support, . Of course, helicopters cannot operate in the higher altitudes common to fixed-wing flight, and for that reason the majority of DAP HALO jumps take place at altitudes of 10,000 feet or less. Instead of operating in typical camouflage, DAP members often effect assaults in the black, Nomex uniforms commonly attributed to CT assault units. DAPs are attached to all Marine Expeditionary Unit's (Special Operations Capable). Direct Action Platoons are attached to the Maritime Special Purpose Forces of the MEU(SOC)s, and are manned by volunteers from the Force Reconnaisance units. The primary feature that makes DAP so appealing is its ability to respond to a contingency within 24 hours.

Note: DAPs are now known today as Maritime Special Purpose Forces (MSPF).

Reader Notes: Each platoon that goes out on float is part of the Maritime Special Purpose Force (MSPF) along with a SEAL plt. The direct action mission is still carried out by the Force platoon, and even more so today because the SEALs are trying to implement something called the Fleet Support Initiative. Basically, the SEALs are trying to get out of having to physically be on
ship with the MEU. Although they will still be supporting the MEU, they will be "on call". The question on everyone's mind is if they will be able to respond in time to a crisis. With a rapid planning/execution window of six hours, it does not sound likely. The word that has been passed is that the Force platoon will be conducting all Maritime Special Operations and direct action missions vice dividing them between the Force and SEAL platoons. The one mission that has been deleted from the tasking is the IHR (In Extremis Hostage Rescue). VBSS/MIO, GOPLAT (Gasoline and Oil Platforms), destruction raids etc. are still tasked to the Force plt.

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