How many Marines typically comprise a rifle platoon?

A rifle platoon in the United States Marine Corps typically consists of 41 Marines. This number is established through the standard organization of infantry units, which is designed to allow for effective command and control, tactical flexibility, and operational effectiveness.

In a conventional rifle platoon, the breakdown of personnel includes a platoon commander (often a second lieutenant), a platoon sergeant (a more senior Marine who assists the commander), and three rifle squads, each led by a sergeant. Each rifle squad contains a number of Marines organized to carry out a variety of combat tasks, making the total personnel count approximately 41 when including all leadership positions and support roles, such as the machine gunners, designated marksman, and others.

Understanding this structure is crucial for anyone studying Marine Corps operations, as the organization directly impacts deployment and tactical decision-making processes during missions.