The Korps Mariniers (The Netherlands Marine Corps) is the amphibious infantry component of the Royal Netherlands Navy. The corps was founded on 10 December 1665 during the Second Anglo-Dutch War by the Prime Minister of the Dutch Republic, Johan de Witt, and Admiral Michiel de Ruyter as the Regiment de Marine. It was the fifth European Marine unit formed, being preceded by the Spain’s InfanterÃa de Armada (1537), the Portuguese Marine Corps (1610), France’s Troupes de marine (1622), and the English Royal Marines (1664). Like Britain, the Netherlands has had several periods when its Marines were disbanded. The modern Korps Mariniers dates from 1814, receiving its current name in 1817. The marines are trained to operate anywhere in the world in all environments, under any condition and circumstance, as a rapid reaction force. The Korps Mariniers can be deployed to any location in the world within 48 hours. Their motto is Qua Patet Orbis (“As Far As The World Extends”).
