Basic Training in the US Marine Corps
Arguably the most difficult of all military service training, Marine recruits go through rigorous physical fitness and emotionally challenging requirements. They also learn the warrior ethos and learn about different types of subjects, including combat medical care. The classes are designed to reinforce these basic values, and many of the recruits find the process very challenging. Upon entering training, recruits will receive their first haircut (or trim for the females) along with initial gear issue, which includes uniforms, toiletries, and letter writing supplies.
Marines will learn how to respond to simulated combat, while enduring grueling training. They will be tested on their physical strength, their endurance, and their ability to perform under pressure. This isn’t a time to let your guard down. Recruits should have a strong mental attitude and be prepared to work as a team. The training program is designed to transform the individual into a team member, and it will be crucial to their future success.
During the first week of training, recruits will take academic classes and learn about the history of the US Marine Corps. They will also receive instruction in basic first aid and firearm handling skills. Throughout this training, recruits will practice a variety of combat techniques, including how to survive in deep water. After passing these challenges, they will take the infamous Swim Qualifications. If they fail to pass the Swim Qualifications, their training will be halted.
During this challenging phase of the training, recruits will undergo rigorous physical training. After passing the PT, they must undergo the Crucible. The Crucible is a test every recruit must go through to become a Marine. It tests every recruit physically, mentally and morally and is the defining experience of recruit training. During the Crucible, they will be given two MREs a day and six hours of sleep a day. They will also need to complete a grueling examination and undergo a number of other tests. They will have to walk 45 miles and practice shooting techniques. During this training, they will need to use their skills to work as a team. It is important to keep in touch with the recruits as much as possible. The US Marine Corps sends letters to their families and relatives to keep in touch with their loved ones.
During training, recruits are tasked with learning the rifle. This weapon is never referred to as a gun and it is always carried by the recruit throughout the entire training period. During nighttime, the rifle is locked in the squad bay of the recruit. It is stored in the armory during the day. During chow and indoor classes, the rifle is kept locked away. During the rifle phase, the recruit is also required to memorize the serial number of the rifle. In addition to memorizing the serial number of the weapon, and four weapons safety rules. During this period, the recruits must know how to clean the weapon.
The drill instructor is an essential part of the training. During this period, the recruits must complete the confidence course, a nine-station obstacle course that builds upper-body strength. Recruits must run for one mile and a half, perform sit-ups and pull-ups, and enter an enclosed structure filled with CS (tear) gas. This training provides confidence to the Marine recruit that their “gas” mask properly keeps chemicals away from their airways – training normally begins with wearing the mask into an enclosed building and then the mask is removed. This experience is crucial in training the recruit about the importance of proper mask use – and the consequences of improper use.
The first day of Marine recruits’ training is a hectic one. A typical day for a recruit begins at 0400 hours, where they perform morning hygiene and clean up. Then, they spend the next seven weeks on the battlefield. During this period, they hike up to 20 kilometers and carry 98 pounds of gear. These activities are vital for a recruit’s physical and mental well-being. Marine basic training will require a lot of discipline, and recruits will have to push themselves to work as hard as possible to succeed. Marine veterans pride themselves on completing the training and develop a bond for life.
