Final answer:
The Marine Ground Combat Element (GCE) is part of the U.S. Marine Corps tasked with direct combat and control of terrain. It includes infantry, artillery, tanks, and other support units and operates within the Marine Air-Ground Task Force for joint operations.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Marine Ground Combat Element (GCE) is a critical component of the United States Marine Corps, which is one of the branches of the U.S. armed forces. The GCE predominantly consists of infantry and is tasked with engaging the enemy directly on the ground. Its key functions include assaulting, capturing, and controlling terrain during operations. Complementing infantry units, the GCE also incorporates elements such as artillery, tanks, and other combat support assets to achieve its mission objectives. As part of the overall Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF), the GCE works synergistically with the Air Combat Element (ACE) and the Logistics Combat Element (LCE) to conduct joint operations, which makes it an integral part of the combined arms approach that characterizes modern military engagements.