Like the other branches of the ROD military, the Marine Corps maintains full command and staff organizations for the Marine Corps itself, and also for the Joint Forces Staff. It also maintains robust headquarters for the Marine Expeditionary Force, and for the Combined Amphibious Warfare Center.

Since the Marine Corps is part of the Department of the Navy, support functions like medical support and human resources are performed by Navy personnel. The Marines do perform their own recruiting and training, however. The 1st Marine Regiment is responsible for training all Marine personnel, regardess of rank or specialty.