PARRIS ISLAND, SC — Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents have been deployed to the gates of Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island ahead of graduation ceremonies this week, marking what officials acknowledge is the first time federal law enforcement has supported base access operations in this capacity.
According to a notice posted on the Marine Corps’ official website, federal law enforcement personnel will be present at installation access points to conduct “enhanced screening and lawful immigration status inquiries during Recruit Family and Graduation Days.”
The deployment means ICE agents will be checking the immigration status of family members attending graduation ceremonies for America’s newest Marines — a move that has drawn sharp criticism from immigration advocates who argue the policy targets loved ones of active servicemembers on one of the most significant days of their military careers.
DHS Issues Conflicting Statement
A Department of Homeland Security spokesperson stated that ICE will not make arrests at the graduation events, but did not explain why the agency would be stationed at the South Carolina base or how long the deployment will last.
“While the Marine Corps routinely coordinates with federal partners on security matters, this is the first time in recent memory that federal law enforcement agencies have supported base access operations at Parris Island in this capacity,” a spokesperson for the Marine Corps Recruit Depot confirmed.
The timing coincides with enhanced security measures at military installations nationwide due to the ongoing conflict with Iran.
What Families Need to Know
Graduation is scheduled for Friday morning, with family visiting hours beginning Wednesday. Officials have advised visitors to bring proper identification and minimize carried items to help facilitate the entry process.
There are 37 graduation ceremonies planned through next March at the South Carolina location. Each graduating company has between six and eight platoons, with each platoon comprising 60 to 80 recruits.
It remains unclear whether similar ICE screening measures will be implemented at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego. That facility’s website does not currently display the same statement about federal law enforcement presence.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.