Each year, the United States Marine Corps enlist roughly 38,000 recruits. There are many reasons why young men and women are interested in joining the Marine Corps. For instance, they may be honoring a family tradition, feel a deep sense of patriotism, or wish to serve a purpose greater than themselves. However, the Marine Corps is not for everyone. Often considered the toughest branch of the U.S. military, training will push recruits to the brink of exhaustion—testing their limits—both mentally and physically. “To this day, boot camp is one of the most difficult hurdles I’ve had to overcome,” says Vernon David Sears Jr., a Former Corporal of the United States Marine Corps. Honourably discharged in 1997, Vernon David Sears Jr. asserts that his military career is responsible for transforming him into the best version of himself. Today, he discusses what you can expect to face during Marine Corps training as you battle to become part of the world’s most elite fighting force.
Phase 1
There are two Recruit Training Depots, where individuals will learn what it means to be a marine: the training grounds at Parris Island, South Carolina, or San Diego, California. Recruits aren’t required to bring anything with them to boot camp, except for essential paperwork, including one’s driver’s license, social security card, and banking information. “All you need is the clothes on your back,” says Vernon David Sears Jr., “everything else will be issued to you when you arrive.”
The first phase kicks off with “recruit receiving,” where newcomers spend the initial three to five days of their thirteen-week endeavor. During this time, aspiring marines get their first haircut, medical and dental screenings, and gear issues, including uniforms, toiletries, and letter writing supplies. Recruits are also faced with the Initial Strength Test (IST) to assess whether they are fit to begin training. The IST involves meeting the minimum timed standards for pull-ups, sit-ups, push press and a 1.5-mile run. Individuals must pass their IST if they want to begin formal training. “The goal isn’t to achieve the bare minimum. Real marine mentality means going above and beyond expectations,” says Vernon David Sears Jr. Consequently, he recommends preparing for recruit training in advance to ensure you pass the quotas with flying colors.
Another aim of phase one is the rehearsal of close-order drills. These drills comprise several formal actions and formations used for marches, parades, and ceremonies. This practice not only allows recruits to familiarize themselves with their weapons but develop a sense of teamwork and discipline. Drills promote compliance and the automatic performance of tasks to ensure the safety of all troop members. “As you repeat the movements, your synchronization will improve,” says Vernon David Sears Jr. He admits reviewing drills before his basic training to avoid falling behind the rest of the members. This stage will also introduce you to the Marine Corp’s Martial Arts Program (MCMAP) and learning weapons handling and safety.
Phase 2
Perhaps the most difficult week for poor swimmers—combat water survival—is nothing like your average swimming class. As their name entails, marines need to be just as competent in the water as they are on land. “We are a military branch capable of fighting on all fronts,” states Sergeant Kendall Wright, drill instructor, Platoon 1063, Company D. As such, water survival training is designed to increase the recruit’s confidence in the water, potentially saving your or a teammate’s life. In general, individuals will learn how to shed heavy gear to stay afloat, tread water, rescue colleagues, and swim long distances. “Swimming in the military is nothing like the civilian world,” says Vernon David Sears Jr. Marines must be able to endure the water while donning their full combat gear, including a rifle, helmet, flak jacket and pack, according to the updated regulations.
To say that training with the marines is physically demanding would be an understatement. While young Americans between the ages of 17 to 28 can enlist in the Marine Corps, only the most determined will be successful. Vernon David Sears Jr. recommends preparing for the physical requirements at least six months before recruit training begins. During boot camp, you will undergo physical training (P.T.) every day. Following a warm-up, recruits will perform the famous “daily dozen,” a series of twelve calisthenics exercises. These movements include side-straddle hops, bends & thrusts, side benders, leg lifts, toe touches, mountain climbers, trunk twisters, push-ups, bend and reach, body twists, squat benders, and rowing. In addition to running and marching, drill instructors will also lead recruits through more gruelling exercises as they stand on a table, called Table PT. “There will be times when your mind tells you that you can’t do something, but you’ll have to learn to push through and build up your mental toughness,” says Vernon David Sears Jr.
Not everything a marine learns is in the field. Academics focus on the marine’s core values of honor, courage, and commitment. While in the classroom, recruits will learn about their particular branch of the military, it’s influential history, and the significant role marines play in protecting society. Overall, boot camp will cover various subject matters, including Customs and Courtesies, First Aid, USMC Mission and Organization, Terrorism Awareness, Leadership, Official Policies and Organizational Values, and Operational Risk Management.
Phase 3
Phase three incorporates the fundamentals of marksmanship, field training, and the crucible. Firstly, marksmanship training emphasizes how to properly shoot and handle your M-16A2 service rifle over two weeks. “The rifle you’ve been using throughout training is the same rifle you will use to take your exam. So, it’s in your best interest to make sure it’s well maintained on qualification day,” cautions Vernon David Sears Jr. Initially, recruits become familiarized with the four firing positions: standing (offhand), kneeling, sitting and prone. During the second week, hopeful marines will fire a known-distance course with ranges extending as far as 500 yards. Marksmanship was one of the areas Vernon David Sears Jr. excelled in, as he managed to score an impressive result on his rifle qualification test, according to his seniors. Additionally, recruits will participate in field training, including essential tips for outdoor survival, like tent building, camouflage and sanitation.
The most strenuous task the recruits must conquer is The Crucible. The Crucible is a 54-hour training exercise that evaluates individuals’ understanding of marine values, knowledge, and skills. “Physical and mental fitness is a large part of being a marine. Recruits that lack toughness will put their units at a disadvantage,” says Vernon David Sears Jr. To pass this assessment, recruits are divided into squads and must complete several “warrior stations.” It’s only a matter of time before individuals are tired and hungry and must fight the urge to give up. Recruits are only allowed eight hours of sleep and must ration their food themselves. “You end up doing things you never thought you could. It’s one of the most rewarding experiences, but you have to have done it to appreciate it,” says Vernon David Sears Jr. Once accomplished, recruits are awarded their Eagle, Globe and Anchor, and have earned the title of Marine.
Phase 4
At this point, recruits have overcome weeks of arduous training to finally be considered full-fledged marines—one of America’s greatest honors. During this last phase, individuals get their final uniforms, additional physical and academic examinations, participate in leadership discussions, and officially graduate. Family and friends can attend graduation, which includes a formal ceremony and parade. After graduation, marines begin fulfilling their duty to serve America and protect its ideals.
Conclusion
There is a common phrase, “nothing worth doing is ever easy,” this is especially true for individuals pursuing a career with the Marines. Few people can overcome the mental, physical, and emotional demands of Marine Recruit Training. If you believe in serving your country and are committed to becoming the best you can be, Vernon David Sears Jr. recommends enlisting with the United States Marine Corps.
By Jaime Cartwright