MARINE CORPS ORDER P5060.20 W/CH 1

5000. GENERAL

1. Authorization for use of the sword. a. The Marine officers (Mameluke) sword is authorized for use by all Marine commissioned and warrant officers at parades, reviews, and other ceremonies.

d. Officers, staff noncommissioned officers and noncommissioned officers may be armed with the appropriate sword while filling duty assignments when the commander deems it appropriate to have Marines armed with the sword as a symbol of leadership or authority.

e. A Marine is considered under arms when armed with the sword when the sword is rigged even when not in a duty status. This is because a sword is a ceremonial weapon.