MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. -- Underage Marines may be legally tipping their own alcoholic drinks at this year’s Marine Corps Ball because of a new regulation released April 19.

According to MARADMIN 266/07, commanders of military installations may allow their 18 - to 20-year-old Marines to consume alcohol during a “justified special
circumstances” or at the “conclusion of arduous military duty.” 

Also, Marines at duty stations overseas will be subject to that nation’s drinking age. Both revisions hinge on the installation commander’s discretion.

In a recent interview with the Marine Corps Times, Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Carlton Kent said that too many Camp Pendleton Marines crossed the Mexican border to celebrate “special circumstances” and ended up arrested or worse.

“Why not have drinking in a safe and controlled environment,” he concluded.

Special circumstances, like the Marine Corps Ball, must take place on base if the commander plans on allowing underage Marines to consume alcohol.

Commanders must ensure that appropriate controls are in place to prevent any mishaps for service members and the community.

Marines who do not exhibit an appropriate level of responsibility may be denied alcohol consumption per their commander’s guidance.

Marines who live on an installation overseas may drink according to that culture’s standards, but are advised that the regulation is a privilege, not a right. The regulation also brings Marines up to par with fellow Sailors while on float with an expeditionary unit. Sgt. Maj.
Kent said issues arose when underage Sailors were allowed to drink per the Navy’s international alcohol guidelines, but Marines were left high and dry.

Sgt. Maj. Kent said that he trusts Marines to act accordingly, on land and sea. If they are treated like adults, they will act like adults, he said.