In response to escalating civil unrest, approximately 200 Marines have been deployed to Los Angeles to safeguard federal property and personnel. This move comes as the California National Guard has been relieved of its duties, with the Marines stepping in to fortify security measures in the city.
The transition of responsibilities from the California National Guard’s 79th Infantry Brigade Combat Team to the 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines, was confirmed by Army Maj. Gen. Scott Sherman, commander of Task Force 51. This task force oversees Title 10 forces dedicated to supporting federal law enforcement in the greater Los Angeles area.
Sherman was quick to clarify that the Marines will not engage in law enforcement activities; their role is strictly protective. “As of today, we have had no soldier or Marine detain anyone,” he stated, noting their presence has primarily involved observing federal law enforcement during the arrest of agitators.
With the addition of the Marines, roughly 4,700 military personnel, including 2,000 National Guard members and 2,000 members from the 49th Military Police Brigade, are now allocated to support operations in the city. This includes implementing safety and security measures at key federal locations, such as the Wilshire Federal Building, located in the Westwood neighborhood.
Marines assigned to protect federal personnel and property arrive in the greater Los Angeles area, June 9, 2025. © Marine Corps Cpl. Juan Torres
In preparation for their duties, the Marines underwent a series of familiarization procedures with the National Guard, known as “left seat, right seat” training, to ensure effective operations in protecting personnel and property. Additionally, military attorneys provided training on the rules governing the use of force, emphasizing the importance of de-escalation techniques and appropriate crowd control measures.
Sherman reported that National Guard members had only utilized civil disturbance equipment to maintain a safe distance during federal operations, asserting that they remained focused on supporting law enforcement efforts.
Since mobilization, the soldiers of the 79th IBCT have completed 26 missions to assist federal law enforcement, with around 800 soldiers consistently operational at any given time. The provision of essential amenities for military personnel has been prioritized, with many contracts for necessary services already fulfilled.
Army Spc. Joel Varughese and Capt. Nelson Laracuente survey the perimeter of an FBI building in Los Angeles, June 10, 2025. © Army Pfc. Joshua Fish
When asked about potential future deployments of Marines within Los Angeles, Sherman refrained from speculation but highlighted the Marine Corps’ extensive training in protecting federal buildings, indicating their readiness for their ongoing mission in the city.
As the situation evolves, the military remains committed to ensuring the safety of federal assets and personnel, maintaining order, and supporting the applicable law enforcement agencies in Los Angeles.
