ICE to Screen Visitors at Marine Graduation in South Carolina

Federal agents will check immigration status of family members attending Parris Island ceremonies.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 10:54am

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The U.S. Marine Corps has announced that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents will be stationed at the gates of Marine Corps graduation events at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island in Beaufort, South Carolina, to conduct immigration status screenings of family members and other visitors. This is the first time in recent memory that federal law enforcement agencies have supported base access operations at Parris Island in this capacity.

Why it matters

Protection measures at bases have been enhanced by the Marine Corps due to the ongoing war in Iran. ICE is a law enforcement agency under the Department of Homeland Security responsible for removing individuals who are in the country unlawfully. The agency became the subject of significant criticism from civil rights groups, lawmakers, and advocacy organizations under the previous administration.

The details

Visitors attending graduation events will be required to present valid identification to enter the base, including REAL ID–compliant driver's licenses or identification cards, U.S. passports, passport cards, or other approved documents used to verify identity. These requirements apply to individuals who do not already hold Department of Defense credentials, such as military ID cards or other authorized access credentials. A DHS spokesperson said ICE agents will not make arrests at the graduation event.

  • The graduation ceremonies take place on Friday mornings.
  • Visiting hours for family members begin on Wednesday of graduation week and continue through Friday.
  • Thursday is designated as family day, when new Marines are first permitted on-base liberty to see their relatives.

The players

U.S. Marine Corps

The branch of the United States Armed Forces responsible for providing amphibious, expeditionary, and air-ground combat forces.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

A law enforcement agency under the Department of Homeland Security responsible for removing individuals who are in the country unlawfully.

Department of Homeland Security (DHS)

The federal department responsible for public security, including immigration enforcement.

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What they’re saying

“ICE will not be making arrests at the basic training graduation in Paris Island, SC.”

— DHS spokesperson

“While the Marine Corps routinely coordinates with federal partners on security matters, this is the first time in recent memory that federal law enforcement agencies have supported base access operations at Parris Island in this capacity.”

— MCRD Parris Island spokesperson

What’s next

It was not immediately clear whether similar ICE screening measures will be used at other Marine Corps training facilities.

The takeaway

This policy change highlights the ongoing tensions around immigration enforcement and the balancing act between national security concerns and civil liberties. It raises questions about the appropriate role of federal agencies like ICE at military installations and whether such screenings could deter family members from attending these important graduation ceremonies.