Who is known as the father of the Marine Corps Scout Sniper Program?

The father of the Marine Corps Scout Sniper Program is recognized as Gunnery Sgt. Carlos Hathcock. He played a pivotal role in the development and establishment of the program during the Vietnam War. Hathcock’s exceptional marksmanship skills, tactical acumen, and innovative approaches to reconnaissance and long-range shooting set the foundation for modern sniper training within the Marine Corps.

His experiences and the techniques he developed were instrumental in creating the methodologies that are still taught today in sniper schools. Hathcock distinguished himself not only for his impressive number of confirmed kills but also for his ability to operate effectively behind enemy lines and gather critical intelligence. His contributions have had a lasting impact on the Marine Corps' approach to sniping and have shaped it into the specialized program it is recognized as today.