( CNN ) -- The military is investigating a `` shocking and deplorable '' YouTube video that seems to show a Marine throwing a puppy off a rocky cliff . YouTube.com removed the video for violating the Web site 's terms of use . The black-and-white puppy makes a yelping sound as it flies through the air . `` That 's mean , that was mean , '' one companion says off-camera , addressing the alleged puppy thrower by his last name . The fate of the animal is not known . The Marine is identified on the video and in other Internet postings as a lance corporal stationed at Marine Corps Base Hawaii in Kaneohe . It 's not clear where the video was shot , although the man who appears to throw the puppy and another Marine are in full combat gear with helmets . YouTube.com had taken down the video by 12:30 p.m . ET Tuesday `` due to terms of use violation , '' according to a banner on the Web site . `` This is a shocking and deplorable video that is contrary to the high standards that we set for every Marine , '' Marine Corps spokesman Maj. Chris Perrine said at a news conference Monday night . `` We will investigate this and take appropriate actions , '' Perrine said . Watch other Marines and civilians react to the video » . He said the Marine is being kept safe in view of the anger over the alleged incident . Perrine added that the majority of Marines conduct themselves honorably . `` There are many examples of Marines who adopt pets and bring them back from Iraq and demonstrate their compassion on a daily basis , '' he said . If the video is deemed legitimate , the lance corporal could face a charge of conduct unbecoming a Marine , Perrine said . There could be administrative action , nonjudicial punishment or a court-martial , he added . `` It 's all governed by the Uniform Code of Military Justice , and anything from reduction in pay to reduction in rank to confinement to discharge from the Marine Corps '' is possible , Perrine said . If others are involved , they too will be disciplined , he said . `` Certainly , there 's a lot of outrage , and a lot of people are upset about it . I think every Marine is upset about this video , '' he said . `` We hope that it turns out not to be what it looks like . '' E-mail to a friend .
Marine in YouTube video appears to throw tiny dog over a cliff . Corps investigating `` shocking and deplorable video , '' spokesman says . Location of scene not known , but Marines are in full combat gear . Lance corporal could face mild to severe discipline , spokesman says .