USMC Eagle Globe and Anchor Patch: The EGA and What It Means to Be a Marine
The Eagle, Globe, and Anchor — the EGA — is the emblem of the United States Marine Corps and one of the most recognized military symbols in the world. For Marines, it's not just a logo. It's a mark of identity earned through one of the most demanding military training programs in existence. Here's the story.
The History of the EGA
The Eagle, Globe, and Anchor was officially adopted by the Marine Corps in 1868 under Commandant Jacob Zeilin. The design drew inspiration from the British Royal Marines' globe-and-laurel emblem, combined with the American bald eagle and a fouled anchor — reflecting the Marine Corps' close relationship with the Navy.
Each element carries specific meaning: the eagle represents the nation the Marines serve, the globe represents the worldwide reach of Marine operations, and the anchor represents the naval traditions and amphibious nature of the Corps. Together they communicate the Marine Corps' mission: to serve the nation, anywhere in the world, from the sea.
Earning the EGA
Marine recruits do not receive the EGA until the final moments of Boot Camp — a 13-week training program at either Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, South Carolina, or MCRD San Diego, California. The Eagle, Globe, and Anchor Ceremony takes place on the night before graduation, when drill instructors present each recruit with their EGA for the first time.
It is one of the most emotional moments in military training. Recruits who have spent 13 weeks being broken down and rebuilt finally receive the symbol that marks them as Marines — not recruits. Many veterans describe it as one of the most significant moments of their lives.
Once a Marine, Always a Marine
The Marine Corps has a saying that no other branch uses: "Once a Marine, Always a Marine." Marines don't say they "were" Marines — they say they "are" Marines. The EGA is a permanent mark of that identity, worn long after service ends.
For veterans, the EGA patch is a declaration of that permanent identity — a way of carrying the Corps with them wherever they go.
Shop the USMC Eagle Globe and Anchor Patch
Hook-and-loop backed. Semper Fidelis — Always Faithful.