When you hear the term "Marine Corps Scout Sniper", what are some things that come to mind? I think most people would say excellent marksmanship. Although this is very true, I believe one thing that is commonly overlooked is patience. Caylen Wojcik, a fellow Marine Corps Scout Sniper says it best in the trailer for Magpul’s "The Art of the Precision Rifle".

(Above: 3/1 USMC Scout Sniper PLT. flag for OIF 3.)

“Being a Marine Corps Scout Sniper is more than just shooting. Just because you’re an excellent shot does not mean that you have the capability or the mindset to become a Marine Corps Scout Sniper. It’s more of a mental game than anything. Your mind will take your body a lot farther than you ever imagined it could go.”

(Above: Chad Russell on the left and myself with the .50 cal S.A.S.R. rifles in Iraq.)

I fondly remember my time as a “P.I.G” (Professionally Instructed Gunman) with 3/1 Scout Sniper Platoon. We were out one day practicing our skull dragging technique. This is used when you are extremely close to your target or there is very little vegetation or cover. Your face is on the ground, your heels are flat, and you stay as low as physically possible. You begin by SLOWLY reaching your hands out in front of you as far as possible without revealing your position. You then begin to pull with your fingertips and with your toes you push your body forward. During this entire process your face is being drug across whatever surface or creature is in your path. It is a very slow and exhausting movement. This is just ONE example of the many things a Scout Sniper must PATIENTLY SUFFER through to be successful.

Try doing this in a full ghillie suit  for about 15-20 yards while you have a friend try and spot your movement. See how long you can go undetected. You will soon discover the meaning of PATIENCE!

(Above: Testing my skull dragging skills by sneaking up on my boxer, Odyen. I've still got it!)

 

-Marshall Bowen