Global Security, Privacy, & Risk Management

“Semper Fi?” – Marines Convicted of Selling Weapons to Gangs & China May 15, 2012

As a former Marine, this is a difficult story for me to write. It does however highlight the importance of the concept of “trust but verify” within security.  As reported in the Jacksonville Daily News, a 2 year investigation by the Naval Criminal Investigation Service (NCIS) has uncovered an operation where 49 Marines and 21 civilians stole and then sold almost $2 million worth of weapons and equipment.  Many of the Marines were stationed at Camp Lejeune, NC and much of the gear was sold on eBay, Craigslist or in face to face meetings.    One of the Marines was a member of the elite Marines Special Operations Command and served with the 3rd Special Operations Battalion.  As stated in the article: “Sgt. Daniel Adam Reich, a former member of 3rd Marine Special Operations Battalion, was convicted of selling and attempting to sell military property and conspiracy. He was sentenced to 40 months in prison and a dishonorable discharge, MarSOC spokesman Maj. Jeff Landis said.” The investigation has since extended into the Air Force and Army. 

The point of this blog post is to show that even our military folks who take an oath of honor and are subject to very stiff penalties for violation of that oath are vulnerable to the same temptations as everyone.  It is not enough to blindly trust people to do the right thing.  While 99% may be honest and have integrity, there is always a small percentage that will give in to temptation.  This is why it is so critical to “trust but verify” in security.