Two Marines under investigation for allegedly posting 'blackface' video on social media

Two Marines based in California are under investigation for allegedly posting a Snapchat video last week that showed them in what appeared to be blackface, KPBS-FM reported.

One of the men seemed to say "blackface" at the start of the video, and he went on to make a racial slur at the end. Both men could be seen wearing their utility uniforms.

The 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing based at the Marine Corps Air Station Miramar in San Diego launched the investigation after the video was shared on Twitter where it went viral.

What are the details of the video?

The 11-second video started with the man in the rear saying what sounds like "blackface."

"Good morning, sir," the man in the front responded before putting on his cap and saluting to the camera.

"Hello, monkey," the man in the rear said.

Have the men been identified?

One of the Marines has been identified as Zach Highfield.

"It looks a lot worse than it is," Highfield told KPBS in a phone interview. He claimed that the two men were wearing charcoal facial masks that are used to unclog pores.

Highfield told KPBS that he regretted the video and that he has taken full responsibility for his behavior. "It was a bad mistake," he said. "We had no intention to offend."

Highfield added that he has been contacted by his command, according to the news outlet.

The other Marine in the video has not been identified.

What did the Marines say?

The 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing issued a statement regarding the investigation, KNSD-TV reported.

We are aware of the post. An investigation has been initiated to determine the facts and circumstances surrounding the content. Our leaders are committed to maintaining an environment of professionalism, dignity, and respect. 3rd MAW takes all allegations of discriminatory behavior very seriously as they stand in stark contrast of our core values of honor, courage, and commitment and do not reflect the discipline and professionalism of the Marines and Sailors of 3rd MAW. It would be inappropriate to comment further on an ongoing investigation.