SPACE MARINE SCOUTS
Although Space Marines are recruited from normal humans, they are surgically altered to make them are far tougher, stronger and more capable than any ordinary person. By implanting hormone-releasing organs into a Space Marine's body his muscles are encouraged to grow and develop beyond normal human limits. Other implants expand his skeleton, providing a strong frame for his new body. Amongst other changes, this causes a Space Marine's ribs to thicken and join together, forming a solid bony mass which acts like natural armour. Thanks to transplanted lungs, Space Marines can also breath noxious gases and can survive in environments which would kill an ordinary man. They can also see better, hear better and eat food which would poison anyone else. Thanks to these modifications, and others too numerous to mention in detail, the Space Marine is the ultimate human warrior.
When Space Marine recruits receive their surgical implants, they also undergo conventional training, hypnotic tutoring and other instruction in tactics and weapon handling. When the Space Marine is ready he is inducted into the Scout Company of his chapter. The Scout Company specialises in dangerous reconnaissance missions and infiltration of enemy lines. They usually fight ahead of the main line of advance right at the forefront of battle, causing consternation among the enemy
forces by striking where they least expect.
Space Marine Scouts are fast and mobile, wearing lighter armour than ordinary Space Marines and being less heavily armed. They are led by veteran Space Marines whose battlefield experience and bravery serve as examples of proper Space Marine conduct. A Space Marine Scout can only leave the Scout Company and become a full Space Marine warrior once his commander is satisfied that he has earned his place beside his Battle Brothers in the chapter's ranks.
-Advanced Space Crusade
