My husband is a marine and found your post humorous. Marines have a variety of jobs. One being, they go out on ships as security during a det. These marines are probably glad they have something to do other than cut squares out on the ocean. While the situation is horrendous, these marines are an asset. They do a whole lot more than just killin'.
Glad to have provided some comedy. Just stated an opinion which comes from years of hearing about military all around the world in hell holes doing everything not seemingly related to what one would think the military is for: defense and to wage war. On the other hand, I see your points and they are well taken.