Marines' Chief's Harsh Words Over 'Naked Photo Sharing'

The Commandant of the US Marine Corps has spoken out over the current investigations into reports that naked photographs of female Marines have been shared online. 

In the video posted to Facebook, General Robert B Neller said: 

"if you can’t or are unwilling to commit to contributing 100 percent to our Corps’ warfighting ability by being a good teammate and improving cohesion and trust then I have to ask you, “Do you really want to be a Marine?”"

It's believed some of the photos posted, which include veterans and other women, were taken without their knowledge before being shared on the "Marines United" page, which also allegedly has members from the British Royal Marines.

According to reports, hundreds of Marines are being investigated following the posting of the images, some of which showed female military members in various stages of undress.

Many of the women in the images were on active duty and included officers and enlisted service members.

Some of the comments from members of the group were described as "obscene".

According to the Associated Press, Marine Corps commandant General Robert B Neller on refused to comment directly about the ongoing investigation but said in a statement.

"For anyone to target one of our Marines, online or otherwise, in an inappropriate manner, is distasteful and shows an absence of respect."

He also tweeted following the revelations.

The Naval Criminal Investigative Service is investigating and officials say the images had now been taken down from the site.

It's believed at least one government contractor has been removed from his job after posting a link to the photographs.

According to the Center for Investigative Reporting, who first reported on the scandal, some of the images were taken secretly before being posted on the page, which has almost 30,000 followers.

The photo sharing allegedly began shortly after the first Marine infantry unit was assigned women on 5 January this year.

The most senior enlisted Marine on active duty, Sgt Maj. Ronald L. Green, told the Center:

"We need to be brutally honest with ourselves and each other: This behaviour hurts fellow Marines, family members, and civilians. It is a direct attack on our ethos and legacy. It is inconsistent with our core values, and it impedes our ability to perform our mission."

"The service is deeply concerned about the damage the incident could do to the Marines, according to a document provided to generals yesterday warning them of the upcoming story."