Marines-helping-Marines at Military Uniform Exchange

Every Marine in Afghanistan will get 4 pairs of Ballistic Skivvies called "Protective Undergarments" according to the Marine Corps Times.  The protective underwear is already in use by British troops and is designed to protect Marines' groin from blast type injuries.

The USMC combat underwear, made of lightweight silk, provides added protection femoral arteries and genitals, but will not protect against fragmentation.  The under garments look similar to bicycle shorts. 

The Marine Corps will use "contingency contracting" to expedite fielding to troops in combat.  The skivvies mitigate the wounds by blocking out the small particles that cause additional damage in a blast. Additionally, they contain antibacterial treatment to reduce Marines' risk of wounds becoming infected, allowing for faster recovery.