Marine Corps Basic Training

Marine Corps Basic Training is the most difficult and comprehensive basic training of any U.S. military branch. Once you become a Marine you have passed the test and should you decide to enter a different branch of military service (after your enlistment is complete) you will not be required to enter that branches basic training. There is simply no need. The USMC takes the cake in basic training and the rest of the branches of service understand that fact. This is not a reciprocal deal however; because, should you enter the Army, Navy, Airforce, Coastguard or become President of these United States and then decide to enlist in the Corps you WILL be required to graduate from Marine Corps Basic Training.

Marine Corps Basic Training takes place in two locations in the United States. You will either be stationed at MCRD (Marine Corps Recruit Depot) Paris Island, South Carolina or San Diego, California. The determining factors will be where your home of record is located and what gender you might be. In other words if you live east of the Mississippi River or you are female you'd go to PI for Marine Corps Basic Training and west of it you'd go to San Diego.

Marine Corps Basic Training is both physically and mentally demanding. The basic training of other military services pales in comparison. The physical requirements are much higher and you'll be required to learn and memorize vast amounts of information with everything stuffed into a period of 12 weeks. Talk to Marines and you'll hear that Marine Corps basic training was the most difficult thing they ever had to do in their entire lives up to that point. And so ...

The more you can prepare in advance, the better off you will be.

It's important that you get into what most would call GREAT physical shape before entering Marine Corps Basic Training. Concentrate on running three miles each day with 2 or 3 long marches (up to 10 miles) each week, thrown in for good measure. Sit-ups and pull-ups are extremely important as well. If you are unable to perform basic exercises, you may spend a significant amount of time in PCP (the Physical Conditioning Platoon) also known as "the fat farm" when I went through. "The Fat Farm" was probably not the best terminology, even in my day, because PCP's objective is physical fitness and the ability to pass the PFT. So whether you are overweight or underweight has no real bearing except that your daily rations will be adjusted accordingly while in PCP. If you are lucky enough to be selected (you won't like it) a physically unfit recruit will remain in PCP until they can do 3 pull ups, 40 sit ups in 2 minutes, and run 3 miles in 28:00 minutes, which are or were the minimum PFT requirements in 1972. If I were 17 again (knowing what I know now) and looking to join the Corps I'd make damn sure I could at least do 20 pull-ups, triple the sit-ups/crunches and run 3 miles in around 20 minutes. And trust me on this - that's very good advise.

Do you know how to survive Marine Corps Basic Training? You need to know because Marine Corps Basic Training will most likely be the most grueling, mentally and physically demanding, 12 weeks of your life.

Our DI's rallied us into formation on the grinder and S/sgt Ferrall proceeded to tell us with great enthusiasm that he had a pretty great surprise for us and that we all would enjoy the experience. I personally had learned, as I am sure the others had also, that whenever S/sgt Ferral bespoke of fun and excitement with such enthusiasm it was mainly because that in some demented way he was thoroughly going to enjoy watching all of us squirm, hurt, or have to withstand some form of torment.

We ran to our appointed destination. We were halted in formation beside a large barn-like quonset building and then S/sgt Ferral began to explain that we were going to be subjected to gas in case we ever had to contend with it in a combat situation. We were then each issued a gas mask and told how to use it. We were also told how to properly care for it because it would be ours to keep throughout training.

Soon we were given orders to march into the barn-like structure and then told to put on the damn masks. Then canisters of gas materialized out of nowhere and smoke and gas filled the structure. It became so thick it was hard to see the guy next to or in front of me. Then I hear S/sgt Ferral tell us to take off our masks. Now let me ask you ...

Have you ever sang the whole Marine Corps hym? I never realized how long it can take to sing that dang hym! We had to sing all the verses while in the gas with our masks off. It truly was an experience. Be prepared to get your dose of gas. I know I sure enjoyed mine. Oh and I have included the Marine Corps Hym lyrics on this page so that you can learn it and be able to sing during your turn in the gas chamber.

Things have changed dramatically since I went through Marine Corps basic training. I know you'll get gassed, run everywhere, be subjected to tremendous amounts of PT (physical training) and some fairly harsh mental abuse but I also know it won't be near as bad as it was for us when I went through training in 1972 and I'm not just some old fart giving you that trite "you have it easy compared to when I was your age" crap. I know things have changed because shortly after I graduated a recruit killed one of his DI's while at MCRD San Diego. Stabbed the dude with his bayonet - a lot. There was a congressional investigation and some stuff was uncovered and a cease and desist was ordered issued. So from what I understand the abuse isn't nearly what it was and my personal feeling is that it shouldn't have been changed because if you happen to become captured during combat your enemy isn't going to treat you like family but ...

If you're a weeny you may want to seriously consider another branch of military service.

I graduated with a meritorious promotion to Pfc (E-2) and since my GCT scores were fairly high I was offered the Platoon Leaders Course which was, at that time, an alternative course for Officer Candidates who had not graduated from college. And ...

Although the offer looked amazing on the surface it actually posed some drawbacks to a young 17 year old Marine, just out of boot camp, who wasn't sure at that point as to whether he wanted to become a "lifer" or not. So being young I passed on that tremendous opportunity electing to simply be the best enlisted Marine I could be. I sometimes wish I had opted for "lifer" status.

IF you decide to take on the challenge of becoming a Marine I recommend you prepare yourself for Marine Corps Basic Training so that you are armed with knowledge that will definitely make your training easier. When you graduate you'll have the right to be proud. Proud for the rest of your life. You'll know what the words Honor, Courage, Commitment and Semper Fi really mean.

Do you know how to prepare for Marine Corps Basic Training? You need to know because Marine Corps Basic Training will be the most grueling, mentally and physically demanding, 12 weeks of your life. Visit the link below to find out exactly how to prepare for Marine Corps Recruit Training so that you survive and become a Marine.

Marine Corps Basic Training will most likely be the most gruelling 12 weeks of your entire life and if you want to survive you will need to start preparing so that your chances of graduating increase dramatically. So what steps can you take, starting right now to prepare for Marine Corps Basic Training? Here are 4 Steps you can take right now ...

1) Get in shape physically. The physical training you'll be subjected to is very demanding. If you're overweight lose it. If your upper body strength is poor - get strong. If your endurance is lacking - improve it. You'll need to be able to:

* Accomplish at least 3 pull-ups
* 40 sit-ups in 2 minutes
* Run 3 miles in less than 28 minutes.

Those were MINIMUM requirements in 1972 when I went through Marine Corps Basic Training at MCRD, San Diego. They have changed the requirements somewhat but IF you can meet those 3 PFT requirements now, you'll be that much farther ahead and find the physical training to be a lot easier to swallow. However ...

If you plan on graduating Marine Corps Basic Training in an outstanding and meritorious fashion enhancing your promotion opportunities you need to max the PFT or come as close to doing so as possible. Again for me that meant at least 20 pull-ups, 80 sit-ups in 2 minutes and running 3 miles in 18 minutes. I never did run 3 miles in 18 minutes. My best time (final PFT before graduation) was 3 miles in just under 21 minutes. Yeah ok, so I was a bit slow ... bite me.

2) Get in shape mentally. For many recruits the mental abuse you will be subjected to during Marine Corps Basic Training far outweighs the physical training demands in regards to difficulty. Keep in mind there are important reasons for the mental conditioning.

* To weed out those who can't take it
* To inspire unconditional discipline
* To mentally transform each recruit into a team member

Remember, once you graduate you will be a U.S. Marine. What that means is that you could very likely see combat which requires teamwork, quick thinking, nerves of steel and unconditional discipline to stay alive. Your life and the life of your fellow Marines may very well depend upon your mental stability and courage.

3) Learn Marine Corps history. Learn all you can about the Marine Corps such as:

* What the Corps stands for (core values)
* Who the Corps heros are and why
* Famous Marine Corps battles

4) Learn basic Marine Corps knowledge. By taking the initiative to learn these things in advance you'll find you are much more prepared than other recruits you'll meet during your 12 weeks of Marine Corps Basic Training. Learn:

* A Marine's 11 General Orders.
* A Marine's Code of Conduct
* The USMC Rifle Creed
* USMC Quotes and Jargon
* USMC Leadership Traits
* Commandmants of the USMC
* The Marine Corps Prayer
* Nomenclature of the M16A2/A4 & M4 Carbine
* Marine Rank Insignias

And not necessarily in that order. See if you can determine which are the most important. I'll give you a hint. EVERY Marine, whether a cook or a Force Recon Officer, is considered and trained as a combat "rifleman" and each Marine is required to qualify every year. If for some reason you are not familiar with weapons ... get familiar. Learn to shoot both rifles and semi-auto pistols. Invest a lot of time at the range so that you can shine on the rifle range during basic training. If you have access to an AR-15/M16/M4 learn how to field strip and clean it.

By taking the initiative to prepare in advance for Marine Corps Basic Training you'll not only begin to learn the qualities of leadership but you'll also find you are much farther ahead of the other recruits you'll meet during your Marine Corps basic training adventure.

During the Revolutionary War a committee of Continental Congress met at Tun Tavern to draft a resolution requesting two battallions of Marines with the ability to fight on land and sea enabling what would become these United States of America to earn independence from England. The resolution was approved on November 10, 1775, officially forming the Continental Marines. Samuel Nicholas became Commandant of the newly formed Marines. Tun Tavern's owner and popular patriot, Robert Mullan, became his first captain and recruiter. They began gathering support and were ready for action by early 1776.

Marines everywhere celebrate the birthday of our beloved Corps on November 10th of each year. This year, 2010, will mark 235 years of glorious existence and exemplary service to the United States of America.

From the Halls of Montezuma
To the Shores of Tripoli;
We fight our country's battles
In the air, on land and sea;
First to fight for right and freedom
And to keep our honor clean;
We are proud to claim the title
of United States Marine.

Our flag's unfurled to every breeze
From dawn to setting sun;
We have fought in ev'ry clime and place
Where we could take a gun;
In the snow of far-off Northern lands
And in sunny tropic scenes;
You will find us always on the job
The United States Marines.

Here's health to you and to our Corps
Which we are proud to serve
In many a strife we've fought for life
And never lost our nerve;
If the Army and the Navy
Ever look on Heaven's scenes;
They will find the streets are guarded
By United States Marines.

Well there ya have it. The Marine Corps hym and you'll need to sing that hym in Marine Corps Basic Training, while getting gassed up, and then qualify HIGH in EVERYTHING in order to have a chance to become a Recon Marine and jump out of perfectly good aircraft.

At Basic Marine Corps Recruit Training You Will Learn ...
The 11 General Orders for U.S. Marines

Once you begin Marine Corps Recruit Training you'll need to memorize your 11 general orders so you may as well take the initive and learn them now.

The 11 General Orders for U.S. Marines

General Order 1
To take charge of this post and all government property in view.

General Order 2
To walk my post in a military manner, keeping always on the alert and observing everything that takes place within sight or hearing.

General Order 3
To report all violations of orders I am instructed to enforce.

General Order 4
To repeat all calls from posts more distant from the guardhouse than my own.

General Order 5
To quit my post only when properly relieved.

General Order 6
To receive, obey and pass on to the sentry who relieves me all orders from the commanding officer, officer of the day, and officers and noncommissioned officers of the guard only.

General Order 7
To talk to no one except in the line of duty.

General Order 8
To give the alarm in case of fire or disorder.

General Order 9
To call the corporal of the guard in any case not covered by instructions.

General Order 10
To salute all officers and all colors and standards not cased.

General Order 11
To be especially watchful at night, and during the time for challenging, to challenge all persons on or near my post and to allow no one to pass without proper authority.

If you graduate Marine Corps Basic Training and become a Marine you will live by The Marine Code of Conduct. This is that code:

ARTICLE I:
I am an American, fighting in the forces which guard my country and our way of life. I am prepared to give my life in their defense.

ARTICLE II:
I will never surrender of my own free will. If in command, I will never surrender the members of my command while they still have the means to resist.

ARTICLE III:
If I am captured I will continue to resist by all means available. I will make every effort to escape and to aid others to escape. I will accept neither parole nor special favors from the enemy.

ARTICLE IV:
If I become a prisoner of war, I will keep faith with my fellow prisoners. I will give no information nor take part in any action which might be harmful to my comrades. If I am senior, I will take command. If not, I will obey lawful orders of those appointed over me and will back them in every way.

ARTICLE V:
When questioned, should I become a prisoner of war, I am required to give name, rank, service number, and date of birth. I will evade answering further questions to the utmost of my ability. I will make no oral or written statements disloyal to my country or its allies or harmful to their cause.

ARTICLE VI:
I will never forget that I am an American, fighting for freedom, responsible for my actions, and dedicated to the principles which made my country free. I will trust in my God and in the UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.

"This Is My Rifle"

The Creed of a US Marine

This is my rifle. There are many like it, but this one is mine.

My rifle is my best friend. It is my life. I must master it as I must master my life.

My rifle, without me, is useless. Without my rifle, I am useless. I must fire my rifle true. I must shoot straighter than my enemy who is trying to kill me. I must shoot him before he shoots me. I WILL...

My rifle and myself know that what counts in this war is not the rounds we fire, the noise of our burst, nor the smoke we make. We know that it is the hits that count. WE WILL HIT...

My rifle is human, even as I, because it is my life. Thus, I will learn it as a brother. I will learn its weaknesses, its strength, its parts, its accessories, its sights and its barrel. I will ever guard it against the ravages of weather and damage as I will ever guard my legs, my arms, my eyes and my heart against damage. I will keep my rifle clean and ready. We will become part of each other. WE WILL...

Before God, I swear this creed. My rifle and myself are the defenders of my country. We are the masters of our enemy. WE ARE THE SAVIORS OF MY LIFE.

So be it, until victory is America's and there is no enemy, but peace!

The 1st Amphibious Reconnaissance Company, FMFPAC can be credited with the birth of "OORAH" in the Corps. Specifically, where it came from was when Recon Marines were aboard the Submarine USS PERCH, ASSP-313.

The Perch was an old WWII diesel boat retrofitted to carry UDT and Amphib Recon Marines. If you remember the old war movies, whenever the boat was to dive, you heard "DIVE,DIVE" over the PA intercom system, and then you heard the horn sound "AARUGHA", like an old Model "A" horn. Well ...

Sometime in 1953 or 1954, 1st Amphib Recon Marines, while on a conditioning run on land singing cadance chants, someone imitated the "Dive" horn sound "AARUGHA", and it naturally became a Recon Warrior chant or mantra while on runs. It is sort of like the martial arts yell and adds a positive inference to the action. And this became part of Recon lexicon.

Former SgtMaj of the Marine Corps, John Massaro, was the company gunny of 1st Force in the late 50s and when he transferred to MCRDSD as an instructor at DI school he took "AARUGHA" with him and passed it on to the DI students and they , in turn, passed it on to recruits.

Just as "Gung Ho" became symbolic of the WWII Raiders, so did "AARUGHA" become part of the new "running Marine Corps." Over time, "AARUGHA" EVENTUALLY CHANGED TO "OORAH".

The official Marine Corps Training Reference Manual on the history of Marine Recon is titled "AARUGHA", giving credence on the origination of the 'POSITIVE RESPONSE' accenting anything that is meant to be good and uniquely Marine Corps. It is part of Marine Corps language, like: Semper Fi & Gung Ho.