Phases 1-3 of Marine Corps Boot Camp

Though I am knowingly aware that specific individuals will endure specific training situations, I have provided my own personal experiences while serving in the United States military. The second article associated with the respective military branch consists of my own opinionated review and brief description of training phases 1-3 at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot, San Diego, CA. Of course, this may vary in depth from similar occurrences experienced at Parris Island, South Carolina. Please consider this account, and proceed for encouragement, discouragement, and an eventual, and hopefully satisfying conclusion.

As previously mentioned, after enlisting in the Marine Corps, recruits are required to maintain obedience to orders and constantly instilled discipline. Every word and action must first be acknowledged by respective drill instructors, and thus be enacted hastily and with motivation. Failure to do so will inevitably create punishment for associated individuals...not too mention the individual's rack mate, squad leader, guide, and even possibly the recruit standing next or across from him/her. The purpose is to form a foundation of a team with similar interests and goals.

Phase 1 encompasses the first 4 weeks of Marine training. While physical challenges are presented daily, mental challenges will also psychologically enhance the individual perspective. These 4 weeks are considered the most enduring as selfish and stubborn recruits are forced to respond actively to orders, and of course, everybody is near regretting their decision to enlist. Multiple occasions will present an individual with hopes of separating early. Enduring physical and mental burdens will eventually highlight the careless and stubborn individuals among the platoon. As they refuse and ignore drill instructor orders in hopes of going home, I always notice the same unfortunate souls in a platoon 2-4 weeks behind our schedule. Apparently, instead of separating, they simply delayed the process. Other activities include close order drill and various educational courses meant to prepare the recruits for phase 2.

Phase 2 for west coast recruits includes Field Week, Grass Week, & Qual Week up at Edson Range, Camp Pendleton. Intimidating drill instructors will repeatedly attempt to scare recruits by expecting the worse during the phase. After all, recruits will be forced to depart the confines of the populated recruit depot and engage in survival and outdoor training. Supposedly, this is the drill instructor opportunity to harass and mentally break down problematic individuals. Grass week will provide information and instruction on firing the M-16A2 service rifle. Recruits will need to qualify to proceed to phase 3. While half the recruits work the pits (pushing and pulling targets), the remainder will fire at the 200, 300, and 500 (5 football fields) yard lines. Recruits must also qualify during swim week.

Phase 3 will consist of final drill procedures, competitions, and preparations before a recruit is awarded graduation and his/her Marine Corp emblem. Of course, this also depends on whether or not the recruit intends on accomplishing the Crucible. Considered the final test, recruits will experience sleep and food deprivation while conducting physically and mentally enduring tasks. With a full 40 lb pack and rifle, individuals will experience challenging field training and roughly 50+ miles of "humping." The "Reaper" is the final obstacle. I vividly recall hiking mountainous terrain so steep that my hands could reach out and touch the ground in the front of me. Those not physically ready will be revealed. Afterwards, Marines will be rewarded a temporary boot leave, and then proceed to either School of Infantry or Marine Combat Training.

As I was desperately hoping to provide more insight and depth into the most challenging events, I fail to recall explicit highlights of my training. After all, constant interaction leaves little time to consider and store memorable moments. I do, however, wish that those interested read additional articles or question me regarding advice or other unanswered viewpoints. Do not underestimate your recruiter; his/her intentions are to enlist you into the Marine Corps.....not intimidate nor scare you into not going.