Marine Corps Knowledge Practice

Who is recognized as the Father of the Marine Corps Scout Sniper Program?

1. Cpl. John F. Mackie

2. Col. Louis Puller

3. Gunnery Sergeant Carlos Hathcock

4. Lt. Alfred Cunningham

The correct answer is: Gunnery Sergeant Carlos Hathcock

The Father of the Marine Corps Scout Sniper Program is recognized to be Gunnery Sergeant Carlos Hathcock. Hathcock played a pivotal role in developing the methods, techniques, and training approaches that define modern sniping within the Marine Corps. His exceptional skills as a sniper, evidenced by his remarkable record during the Vietnam War, underscored the necessity for a specialized sniper program, which ultimately led to the establishment of the Scout Sniper School. His legacy is not only tied to his impressive accuracy and tactical acumen, but also to the ethos and standard of training that he instilled in the sniper community, influencing generations of snipers that followed. Other individuals mentioned had notable careers but did not contribute directly to the formalization and development of the Scout Sniper Program as Hathcock did. Cpl. John F. Mackie, for instance, made contributions to Marine Corps history but is not recognized specifically for the sniper program. Col. Louis Puller, while an iconic figure known for his leadership and valor, is not tied to the development of sniping techniques. Lt. Alfred Cunningham was a pioneer in aviation and has an important legacy within the Marine Corps, yet his work did not pertain to the sniper program.