Successfully complete Boot Camp training (Marine Corps East Coast)

1. 1
   The Break Down

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   One of the main goals of Phase I is to break you down physically and mentally. The instructors will focus their attention on breaking you from your civilian ways of living and speaking. Slang terms that you used while at home will not fly in boot camp, and will get you punished. Your usual way of eating, moving, talking, sleeping, etc., will not be tolerated. You'll receive a full re-boot and will be trained to live everyday as a Marine. To say this process is challenging is an understatement. This transition will be brutal. Do your best to follow directions, don't step out of line, and work toward a promising career in the Marines. Do not feel discouraged during this process, as every recruit will have to endure this transition from civilian to Marine, including you. The Instructors will not have pity on you' so don't expect it. The only family you have is your fellow Marines, and your Senior Drill Instructor - "Daddy". Instructors will use this part of training to weed out the weak minded from the semi strong-minded individuals. Another tip during this process is to perform all tasks with speed and agility, especially when called on by instructor or fellow recruit.

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2. 2
   Discipline

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   If you don't comply with the instructor's demands, they will get discipline from you whether you give it, or have to have it taken out of your body. Allow yourself to be submissive, and don't resist. Marines are known globally for their personal discipline. Every second of every day your self-control and discipline will be assessed, including when you sleep. There will be tasks that you feel are pointless and stupid. Just do them. Everything you're told to perform is for a reason and you will learn the reasons later on in training. Discipline is not only physical, but mental also. Keep your head together, and the rest will follow.

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3. 3
   Suzie and Jody

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   Throughout your boot camp training you'll hear the terms Suzie and Jody. The instructors will get in your head with these terms by relating the names to your girlfriend and the guy she is with while you're at boot camp. During your breakdown you will be filled with emotions, and these terms will get to you. Just remember that these terms are only to find out how much mental stress you can handle. Do not, at any time, challenge the instructor on this issue or show your emotions. They will see this as a weakness that needs to be taken out on your body. Basically, keep your emotions in the best you can, and ignore the comments made by the instructors; you know best about what your girlfriend is doing more than anyone else.

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4. 4
   Marine Corps History Knowledge

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   You will be given classes on Marine Corps Knowledge throughout the first phase of training, and the best advice is to simply retain all the information. The information will be reviewed every day in training and during your Marine Corps career. Regardless of whether or not you think it's important, you'll need to find a way to retain names, dates, locations and every other piece of information, as even the little details will be reviewed. Most classes will be held in an open room with your fellow platoon and others. Sleep is the worst thing you can try to do, as you will be publicly embarrassed and privately punished in an IT session. A lot of recruits suffer from fatigue due to the intense training throughout the day, but while in classes do your best to retain, and stay awake. Also, keep your fellow recruits awake during classes. Be smart and study during free time. Form a study group, whether or not you are a guide or squad leader. It will bode well for you.

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5. 5
   

   Ranks and Insignias will be taught during this period of your training

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   It's important to remember/know all the ranks and Insignia Pictures. Below is a list and pictures of all insignias associated with the Marine Corps.

   

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6. 6
   Drill

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   Close Order Drill will be practiced during boot camp where all of the recruits in the platoon will move as one group. The purpose of drill (Marching) is to move a large group of Marines in an orderly fashion by your drill instructor. Drill will be practiced in boot camp and also during your career, so it's a good idea to learn to love drill, because it will be your way to maneuver everywhere as a group. There are a number of commands to learn while practicing close order drill. As a group, you'll be sloppy at first, but with practice, you and your platoon will perfect your drill movements. The Instructors will continue to scream at the platoon to drive your heels into the ground as they want to hear your feet hit the ground with intensity every step - so DRIVE THOSE FEET! Below are commands associated with drill and pictures of the formations.

   

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7. 7
   Rifle

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   Your rifle is an M16-A2 not a "gun", "gat" or "piece" do not call it anything else other than your rifle or M16-A2. Doing this may cause your instructors to punish you. Also, you will learn your 4 Rifle Conditions which are:  

   1. Condition 1 - Treat every weapon as if it were loaded.
   2. Condition 2 - Never point your weapon at anything you do not intend to shoot.
   3. Condition 3 - Keep your finger straight and off the trigger until you're ready to fire.
   4. Condition 4 - Keep your weapon on safe until you intend to fire.

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8. 8
   In addition you will also perform special moves while marching with your weapons, so you will have to incorporate all rifle movements along with your drill steps every day - until the rifle feels like an extension of your body

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9. 9
   Rifle carries

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   There are different types of rifle carries that you will be introduced, with different types of slings to carry your rifle throughout the training process.

   

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10. 10
    MCMAP

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    Marine Corps Martial Arts is the base of all Marine Corps combat. In boot camp, you'll learn the basics to get you through, but you can continue learning throughout your career. Remember and practice the moves. If you don't pass the final test, you won't go any further in your training. Don't make the mistake others have made of assuming you can pass MCMAP easily in boot camp. The MCMAP moves for Tan Belt (first Level) are relatively easy you apply yourself. Each MCMAP Level is determined by belt color:  

    1. Tan Belt = Beginner
    2. Gray Belt = Beginner 2
    3. Green = Intermediate
    4. Brown = Intermediate 2
    5. Black = Expert
    6. Black Red Tab. Expert with the ability to teach others all belt tests.

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11. 11
    In addition to MCMAP, Green belts can teach levels below them (Gray and Tan)

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    Now, you can leave boot camp as a Gray belt, which is more advanced than previous years when you could only get to a Tan Belt in MCMAP.

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12. 12
    The Obstacle Course

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    A course designed to test you physically, mainly conducted during PT (physical training). The course is constructed of different obstacles that need to be attacked according to instructions given. Below are pictures to give you an idea what the course looks like. If this course is not completed, the recruit will not be able to further his training.

    

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13. 13
    Pugil Sticks is a form of training involving two or more recruits engaging in combat with gladiator style sticks

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    The goal is to attack the other as much as possible while defending. There will be a lot of buzz about Pugil Sticks amongst recruits. It's like performing on stage to demonstrate your skills to the instructors. This event doesn't require a pass to continue training.

    

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14. 14
    Swim Qualification

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    During your swim qualification, you will be taught basic survival skills in water. This is a pass or fail test. During swim qualifications you will be tested for the day, as the challenges last until you pass. They may continue the next day for a final pass or fail. This won't include the usual swim styles (front crawl, breath stroke), the instructors will teach you the techniques you'll need to survive in the water, so listen carefully and follow instructions.

    

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15. 15
    Rappel Tower- this part of training will involve the recruits rappelling down a 100 foot tower, either by zip lining or rappelling to get to the bottom

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    Make sure you're wearing gloves without cuts or rips in them, to avoid your grip slipping, which really burns. You'll be in a safety harness, but every time you lose your grip, you'll have to start again. Breathe, and don't look down.

    

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16. 16
    Gas Chamber

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    You will be put in a room with your instructors, all of you wearing a gas mask. CS gas will be released in the chamber. Make sure you follow directions and practice clearing your mask to ensure you are completely protected. You will be instructed remove your mask for a short period of time, and then instructed to put it back on again to clear out the gas while doing calisthenics. Do not attempt to leave the chamber before the training is finished, otherwise you'll be dropped back for not completing the training. The CS gas burns and will make it hard to breathe, but the instructors will make sure you're safe.

    

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17. 17
    End of Phase I

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    By the end of phase I you will be able to keep up in full on PT, complete your first written exam, march to instructions and complete your MCMAP Test for your assigned Belt. Just because Phase I is over, don't get too excited. You are still a recruit looking ahead to the challenges of PT and there is always the risk of being put back in training.

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1. 1
   Initial Drill

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   In your first week of Phase II, your Platoon, and your most Junior Drill Instructor, will compete with the other Platoons in your company in Close Order Drill. The instructors take a lot of pride in this contest, but there's not much you can do to control the entire platoon. Just make sure if someone messes up, it isn't you. This won't be the last time your platoon will face this competition, so if you do not win, there will be an opportunity to redeem yourselves. The initial drill contest will set the tone for Phase II, so if you fail horribly, expect instructors to be tougher on you, after all, it's a fail for them as well.

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2. 2
   Grass Week

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   Grass week is actually two weeks long, and composed of classes on the M16 and practicing your firing positions to ensure shooting efficiency. Pay attention to instructions, warnings and tips from the marksman coach. You'll need to learn everything about the M16 rifle, including aiming techniques, target descriptions and wind directions. Many recruits fail the rifle range because they don't study the technical aspects taught by the Marksman Coaches. If you have any questions, ask the Marksman Coach, who'll be a Marine, but more grounded and lenient than your drill instructors. That doesn't mean you can take the Marksman Coach for granted. These instructions can make your rifle range experience a breeze or a fail, and a fail will send you back to do re-training. You will be shooting distances of 200, 300 and 500 meters. During Grass week, you will be "snapping in"- you'll get the opportunity to get a feel for three different positions, while aiming at targets. Below are the fundamentals you will practice during grass week with your Marksman Coach, including the positions.

   

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3. 3
   Pre-Qualification

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   Pre Qual and Qual Day will take place on the same day. You'll wake up early; march to the rifle range where you'll have Pre Qual time to practice your shooting techniques with live rounds. You'll receive a booklet to plot your hits and misses.

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4. 4
   Qualification

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   The third week of Phase II, you will qualify with your rifle as a platoon, half will shoot while the others assist at the targets to score keep score for their fellow recruits with the assistance of the Instructors, and then switch. To the Drill Instructors, the Rifle range is the second biggest event. They'll be more relaxed knowing training is almost over, and the recruits are showing their colors, on their way to becoming Marines. Don't let it go to your head. Remain disciplined, as all this calm can flip in an instant. During Qual time, use your booklet to keep track of your target practice. Today, you might pass or fail, but everyone who fails will get a second chance again to pass.

   

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5. 5
   Team Week

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   This event during your final week of phase II will see the platoon split into teams to do labor around the Marine Corps Recruiting Depot. It will include laundry, landscaping, range clean up, etc. The goal is to make sure you work as a team without constant supervision. If someone tries to take control and order people around, keep telling yourself that training is nearly over. Most of the time you'll be surrounded by other recruits, not Marines or instructors, retain your discipline in their absence. A team leader from your platoon may accompany you to these duties, so be respectful and back them up as needed. All these things will lead you on the path of becoming a Marine. Also during team week you'll have a bit of freedom regarding marching destinations.

   

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6. 6
   Field Meet

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   This will be a combination of everything you have learned or done in boot camp except marching in a contest environment amongst the whole company. The pressure is on for not only you to win, but for your platoon to win as well. The events - Pugil Sticks, Obstacle Course, Boxing, sprints tug of war and rifle procedures. There is no trophy awarded just bragging rights, not only for individuals or platoons, but also for the Instructors. Winning the field meet makes your instructors proud, but that doesn't mean they'll be any easier on you or your platoon, your aren't quite done training to be a Marine.

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7. 7
   Second Phase Testing

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   Throughout the training of the Phase II, make sure you've have been, and paying attention in class. Most of the questions will be about the training you received during your second phase, especially your knowledge of the M16 rifle. Failing will result in a retake. If you fail a second time, you'll be put back in training.

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The M16A2 or M16A4 is the "semper fi" infantry weapon for the Marine infantryman. Instructions for shooting the M16 are:

• Maximum range:
  • Target radius - 2,625 feet, or 800 meters
  • Target specific - 1,804 feet, or 550 meters
• Muzzle velocity: 2,800 feet per second (f/s), or 853 meters (m/s)
• Firing rate:
  • Cyclic: 800 rounds per minute
  • Sustained: 12-15 rounds per minute
  • Semiautomatic: 45 rounds per minute
  • Burst: 90 rounds per minute
• Magazine capacity: 30 rounds

The M16A2 is a 5.56mm rifle that weights less than nine pounds. It is gas-operated, air cooled, and magazine-fed. It can be fired as a weapon from the shoulder or hip, and with a selector lever there are two firing options - automatic or semiautomatic. As an automatic it fires 3-round bursts. As a semi-automatic it can fire single shots. The M16A2 features:

• Adjustable rear sight for wind and range conditions.
• Trigger guard opens for firing with winter gloves.
• A cartridge ejector designed for left and right-handers.
• The buttstock and grip are composed of a highly durable break-resistant plastic.

The M16A4 is a modified M16A2, with an upper receiver and carrying handle that detaches. The upper receiver is for attaching optical devices when the carrying handle is removed. All other dimensions are the same as the M16A2.

The third phase is about the recruits polishing their skills and knowledge, before becoming a Marine. This is the last phase before leaving boot camp, leading to more training, and finally being stationed. This phase is the most important phase as the recruit is almost done, but he still must prove himself. This is not the time to mess up.

1. 1
   Reshooting

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   During phase III you will return to the rifle range where you'll reshoot but the targets will be different. Instead of stationary, like the first time, the target will be in motion, providing more a challenge. Remember which target is yours as many recruits lose their spot and fire at the wrong targets - causing them to fail the event. You'll also learn the basic steps to fire at targets on command. You will be using a "3 point" sling, which allows you to hold your rifle in 3 different types of carries. Also, you'll experience shooting at close range - 50 and100 meter targets. Weapon safety will be a big part of this training as other recruits will be in your line of fire during these exercises so be extremely careful not to shoot them.

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2. 2
   BWT (Basic Warrior Training)

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   This training will be conducted in the field away from your squad bay, the woods throughout the duration of your training. Here you will learn:

   

    

   1. Low Crawl. The low crawl has you crawling on your stomach, using only your elbows and feet to move sideways. If you pick up your hips or do the crawl wrong you'll have to return to the start and do the course again until you finish.
   2. Crawling with weapon. You crawl with your M16 by placing the rifle on your back while holding it with one hand and using the other hand to crawl forward. This technique is time consuming and physically challenging. If you mess up, you'll have to start again...and again. Through this process, keep your composure with the instructors in charge.
   3. Camouflage. You will learn how to apply camouflage to your face and body in an attempt to blend in with your surroundings. You'll learn there's an art to camouflaging effectively.
   4. Field Stripping MRE. The stripping of MRE will be the breakdown of MRE according to what you need, and only what you need. Resist the candy in the MRE, but ensure that you have enough food to survive while in the field, for you won't be able to get more MRE. This will train you on the art of survival and making good decisions to ensure survival while in the field. Main meals and bread are the best options to keep you full in the field during training.
   5. Squad Formation. You, and a selected group of the platoon, will conduct moving in tactical formations different from marching as a platoon. These formations will be taught and practiced silently with hand and arm signals. They will be on the third phase test.
   6. Land Navigation. You will learn the basics of map-reading, reading a compass, counting paces and finding specific points/locations on a map.

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3. 3
   Final Drill

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   The mother of drill competitions, this will decide who is the best in close order drill.

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4. 4
   Physical Fitness Test (PFT)

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   This will determine whether or not you are physically able to graduate to a Marine. Don't do any physical training alone before the PFT as you may strain yourself, causing you to fail the test. The requirements are to complete at least 3 pull-ups, 100 sit ups and complete your 3-mile run under 24 minutes. Failure to complete any of these tests will result in a fail, and you won't be able to graduate with the rest of your platoon. You'll be put back in training unless you can complete your one retake of this event. Drink lots of water the night before to ensure you're well-hydrated. Mentally prepare yourself by imaging yourself graduating, and how proud your family will be.

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5. 5
   Final Written Test

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   This test is your final - which will include all the knowledge from previous tests, and all material learned in boot camp. Studying will certainly secure your chances at passing this written exam because it is the last exam of boot camp.

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6. 6
   Platoon Trophy Ceremony

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   This day all the platoons in the company will be awarded trophies based on the scores from the rifle range, test taking and drills. Hopefully, your platoon with receive some kind of award, making you proud, your platoon proud, as well as your Instructors.

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The Crucible is the final test you have to complete as a recruit to gain the title of US Marine. To get through this 54-hour, 48-mile march, use all the tips listed above, and everything you've learned in training. This training will be compiled of everything taught through recruit training, and will also be used to refresh or ensure of your mental retention. During this training you will receive 2.5 MRE to field strip for use in this training venture. This is the final test for you during recruit training. Focus on the fact that the end is near and all your hard work is about to pay off. This is no easy task. Good luck, and hope you finish and go on to answer the call of your country - to become a US Marine.

The Marine Corps Moto Run (motivational run) is a four mile traditional run during the Boot Camp graduation ceremony on Family Day. The platoon, composed of four squads of new Marines, runs past all four battalions and the Support Battalion. There is a bell standing in front of each battalion that a chosen recruit rings at each cycle of the run. During this ceremonial run, the platoon sings a Marine song loudly as they follow the Drill Instructor's lead. This celebration symbolizes these recruits have successfully completed Marine Recruit Basic Training. A Squad Leader is at the front of the line of each of the four squads, with the platoon selected Guide at the very front. During the entire four-mile run, he carries the small flag brandishing the platoon's ranking color and number (Guidon) high.

The Moto Run Formation

Each platoon, composed of 60 recruits, will be practicing a graduation drill on the parade deck early morning on Family Day. Each recruit will be in the same position within the platoon formation for the Moto Run, graduation drill, up until they are dismissed for family day, and a chance to visit his loved ones. If you know his platoon number and color, you will see it on the Guidon during their morning practice. The Guide leads at front of the 1st squad.

• Sxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
• Red
• Sxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
• Yellow
• Sxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
• Blue
• G SxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxX
• Green
• Red = 4th Squad
• Yellow = 3rd Squad
• Blue = 2nd Squad
• Green = 1st Squad

• G = Guide
• S = Squad Leaders
• Each vertical line (one of each color) = Rank or "Family"
• Each color = Squad

How To Hold The Flag During The Moto Run

The Guide has the honor and task of carrying the platoon guidon during the entire four-mile Moto Run. He must carry it while leading the run, setting the pace for the platoon. The guidon is held in the left hand - near the bottom of the guidon at his left hip. The right hand holds the guidon at his right shoulder. He must be an exceptional physically fit recruit to perform this properly, as he cannot lose pace, nor allow the platoon guidon to slip from this position. The Guide is a senior recruit, who must be respected by his fellow recruits. The Drill Instructor is known to test this respect for the Guide by belittling him in front of his fellow recruits. The DI expects the recruits to speak up and defend the Guide.

Every recruit is expected to perform all of his tasks to the best of his ability as commanded, and avoid standing out. The best way to show leadership among the other 59 platoon recruits is to be confident, vocal, positive, and stand out by motivating the other recruits to improve their performance. He should participate during classes, and help other recruits. When possible, to show leadership, a Marine recruit takes initiative. Every Marine is expected to show courage when performing any task presented by the DI.

1. 1
   Research All You Can About Basic Training

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   Research on the internet prepare yourself, and know what to expect. Ask others who've gone through the training, to fill you in on what's required, and how to prepare in advance.

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2. 2
   Make sure you are in good physical condition

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   It is best to be in tiptop shape before going through physical training. It is very hard work, so if you are not in the best of shape, now is the time to do it. If you're overweight when you go, they will make sure you are put on a diet for training. Practice doing push-ups, sit-ups, jumping jacks, and walk every day.

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3. 3
   Prepare Yourself Mentally

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   Drill Sergeants are known to be very tough, as you have probably heard. They will belittle you, yell, and scream to test how strong you really are. Don't take it personally. Just be brave and think positively and you will get through it. They want to make a man out of you.

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What kind of braids are allowed for marine boot camp?

For females only cornrows. Males can't have hair.

See more questions like this: Can you quit the Marine Corps during MCT

Tricks for getting through the marine corps gas chamber?

Sadly, there really aren't any tricks. When I went through the gas chamber for the first time, it wasn't easy, and it's not meant t be. Pay attention to your instructor's advice and directions. Your instructor will give you all the advice needed, so make sure you pay close attention.

See more questions like this: How often can a Marine use their cellphone after SOI

Tricks to score well on marine corps boot camp defensive driving course?

With any Driving course, they will teach you the basics, some tricks and a set of do's and don'ts. The best way to pass a Marine Corps defensive driving course is by taking down notes and putting all of them to practice. A recording app/a real recorder helps a lot for reviewing later.

Is there some way to find out what date a platoon will finish the Crucible in advance? I'd like to order a flag to be flown on that date.

I don't want to guess at the date & get it wrong.

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Hi, on the written test, can you help me, I hope you can.

What is the score you have to get because my boyfriend got a 69 is that bad or good? I just want to know what he needs to get by. I just want to know what you have to get on the written test that's all. I have tried: I look up everything. I think it was caused by: No problem. I just want to know.

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How can one train at the jungle warfare training center in Okinawa?

How can one train at the jungle warfare training center in Okinawa?

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What is the total distance that recruits have to run and in what time frame?

I've read that recruits are initially required to run 3 miles in 28 minutes. Is this true?

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