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ICE agents will screen families at Marine Corps graduations in South Carolina

Mar 31, 2026, 1:11 AM20
(Update: Mar 31, 2026, 12:54 PM)
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ICE agents will screen families at Marine Corps graduations in South Carolina

  • ICE agents will be stationed at Marine Corps graduation events to conduct immigration status screenings.
  • All visitors must present valid identification to access the base amidst heightened security measures.
  • This marks the first instance in recent memory of federal personnel being involved in base access operations at Parris Island.
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In the United States, Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents have begun screening family members of new Marines at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot in Parris Island, South Carolina. This heightened security measure coincides with the ongoing war in Iran and follows increased force protection protocols at U.S. military installations. Family days and graduation ceremonies, which happen frequently throughout the year, will see federal agents stationed to conduct immigration status inquiries. While the presence of ICE agents at such events is unusual, the Marine Corps emphasizes that they aim to prevent unauthorized individuals from accessing their facilities. The Marine Corps has historically coordinated with federal agencies on security matters, but this is the first known occurrence of ICE being involved in base access operations in this manner. During recruit family days and graduation ceremonies, all attendees must present valid identification to enter the base, which includes REAL IDs, U.S. passports, or U.S. birth certificates. Visitors without proper identification may face additional scrutiny, and it is advised that those attending limit their carry-on items to facilitate the entry process. Despite concerns from various civil rights groups regarding ICE's presence, a Department of Homeland Security spokesperson clarified that ICE agents will not make arrests during the graduation events. The presence of federal law enforcement personnel is meant to enhance security rather than enforce immigration laws actively at these ceremonies. The Marine Corps has reiterated that these measures are purely precautionary and part of their responsibility to ensure the safety of all personnel and attendees. The increased scrutiny at Parris Island has raised some questions about whether similar measures will be implemented at other military installations in the future. As the situation evolves, it remains to be seen if the involvement of ICE at such events could become a standard practice across different bases. Graduation ceremonies, which celebrate the completion of the grueling 13-week boot camp, will continue to welcome families while emphasizing the importance of proper documentation to gain access to the site.

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