What is blood stripe usmc?

The blood stripe in the USMC is a scarlet stripe that runs down the outer seam of the dress blue trousers worn by Marine Corps officers and NCOs. It is approximately 2 inches wide and 21 inches long and is worn by those who have earned the rank of Sergeant and above.

The blood stripe has its origins in the Marine Corps' early years when Marines wore red stripes on their dress blue trousers as a tribute to the infantrymen who fought in the Battle of Chapultepec during the Mexican-American War. According to legend, these Marines fought so valiantly that their white trousers turned red with blood. However, there is no solid historical evidence to support this theory.

In the early 19th century, the practice of wearing red stripes was discontinued, but in 1840, the Commandant of the Marine Corps, General Archibald Henderson, reintroduced the practice, and the blood stripe has been worn ever since.

The blood stripe symbolizes the sacrifice and valor Marine Corps officers and NCOs have demonstrated throughout the Corps' long and storied history. It is a mark of honor and distinction, and those who wear it have demonstrated the highest levels of dedication and commitment to their duties as Marines.