Fact Check: About 700 Marines have been undergoing civil disturbance training at Naval Weapons Station Seal Beach in Orange County, California.

Fact Check: "About 700 Marines have been undergoing civil disturbance training at Naval Weapons Station Seal Beach in Orange County, California."

What We Know

Recent reports confirm that approximately 700 Marines are currently undergoing civil disturbance training at Naval Weapons Station Seal Beach in Orange County, California. This training is part of a broader military deployment in response to ongoing protests related to immigration enforcement in Los Angeles. Maj. Gen. Scott Sherman, who oversees the operation, stated that the Marines are preparing to assist federal agencies in maintaining order during these demonstrations (ABC News).

The deployment of these Marines follows a significant federalization of National Guard troops, with about 4,000 National Guard members also activated to support law enforcement during the protests (NPR). The training at Seal Beach is focused on civil disturbance tactics, which are crucial for managing large crowds and ensuring safety during potentially volatile situations.

Analysis

The claim that about 700 Marines are undergoing civil disturbance training at Naval Weapons Station Seal Beach is supported by multiple credible sources. Reports from both NPR and ABC News explicitly mention the number of Marines and their location, corroborating the training's purpose (NPR, ABC News).

The reliability of these sources is high. NPR is a well-established news organization known for its journalistic integrity, while ABC News also maintains a strong reputation for accurate reporting. Additionally, the information has been echoed by other outlets, such as the Associated Press and local news stations, which further strengthens the credibility of the claim (AP News, Sacramento Bee).

However, it is essential to note that while the Marines are training, their deployment to assist in law enforcement activities raises legal and ethical questions. Experts have pointed out that federalized military forces, including Marines, are generally restricted from acting as police under the Posse Comitatus Act, unless specific conditions are met (NPR). This context is crucial for understanding the implications of their training and potential deployment.

Conclusion

Verdict: True

The claim that about 700 Marines are undergoing civil disturbance training at Naval Weapons Station Seal Beach is accurate and well-supported by multiple reputable sources. The training is part of a broader military response to civil unrest in Los Angeles, and the information has been consistently reported across various news outlets.