Senate passes amendment allowing more Marines at US consulates, embassies

The Senate passed an amendment to the defense bill by voice vote Wednesday that would place more Marines at U.S. consulates and embassies around the world.

Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) introduced the amendment, saying it was important to prevent more deaths overseas, referring to the attack on the U.S. Consulate in Benghazi, Libya, on Sept. 11.

Four Americans, include U.S. Ambassador to Libya Christopher Stevens, were killed at the consulate that was not adequately protected by the U.S. military.

“I think many Americans would be surprise to learn that Marines are assigned in only more than half of our diplomatic missions world-wide,” McCain said on the floor Wednesday.

McCain said his amendment, 3051, would also ask the Department of Defense to reassess the rules of engagement for Marines stationed at embassies and consulates so they could engage in combat when attacked.

The Senate is considering amendments to the National Defense Authorization Act, S. 3254.

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