Can you be a Marine Veteran and not be a Marine?

2014-08-06T15:49:17-04:00

If you are in USMC basic training and you become injured and are medically discharged, which then entitles you to disabled veterans benefits would you consider yourself a Marine? I have an in-law who started Marine Corps basic, sometime during 1st phase had some kind of injury where they had to decide whether to stay in PRP or discharge medically. This individual discharged medically and is now collecting disabled veterans benefits. This individual purports to be a Marine and has Marine Corps Paraphernalia everywhere. Even though this individual is a medically discharge veteran, would you consider this person a Marine?

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Aug 6 at 2014 3:51 PM

2014-08-06T15:51:56-04:00

Regardless of the sheet of paper, if you did not earn that Eagle Globe and Anchor, you are not a Marine.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 6 at 2014 4:37 PM

2014-08-06T16:37:28-04:00

Someone I know was in a similar situation (broke his arm, complication after surgery) except he does not claim to have made it. In fact, he makes it a point to state that he didn't. I have a lot of respect for him.

This cat on the other hand . . . Marine Corps paraphernalia when you didn't even make it through boot? Really?

Response by COL Randall C. made Aug 6 at 2014 4:48 PM

2014-08-06T16:48:13-04:00

Cpl Private RallyPoint Member, this is more of a tradition question, rather than one of laws/regulations, that you likely could answer better than those of us in other Services.

From a 'legal' interpretation, was your in-law discharged from the Marines? If the answer is yes, then they can truthfully say "I was in the Marines". However, from the tradition point of view, their having earned the right to say "I am a Marine!", would be very debatable to many.

I would point out one thing though - you said your in-law is collecting VA disability because they were injured during basic and medically discharged. This makes it very different from a similar discussion about someone who left basic voluntarily and was accepting accolades of being a veteran.

Your in-law is eligible for many things because they were honorably discharged from the Marine Corps because he/she is viewed as a "Marine veteran", but does that make them a "real" Marine in your eyes? Opinions will vary, but really yours is the only one that counts in this situation.

Response by SGT Richard H. made Aug 6 at 2014 5:06 PM

2014-08-06T17:06:45-04:00

I'm going with no.

Response by MSG Wade Huffman made Aug 6 at 2014 5:10 PM

2014-08-06T17:10:24-04:00

While he is a Veteran (can't be denied if he is drawing disability), I believe tradition dictates that if he was never awarded the title by graduating from basic, he doesn't deserve to claim it. I'm not a Marine, but I certainly respect their traditions!

Response by LCpl Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 6 at 2014 5:24 PM

2014-08-06T17:24:01-04:00

He was not presented with the EGA, he did not graduate Bootcamp, I don't believe he is given veterans pay because he is not a veteran why? He didn't serve. You are military once you complete your training. He never made it passed 1st phase. He has no right at all to claim the title United States Marine! As for the things he has that are Marine Corp related that's fine he can cheer us on from the side line. So to summaries he is NOT a Marine nor does he rate to call himself one. And is disrespectful for him to call himself one when he didn't earn it. Hope this helps. By the way I AM a Marine and I earned my title. As for what the army legal guy said he is incorrect! He can not say at all that he WAS in the Marines! Again if he didn't finish Bootcamp he doesn't rate! You are either a Marine Or your not! There is no in between!

Response by LCpl Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 6 at 2014 5:28 PM

2014-08-06T17:28:51-04:00

He need to stop he did NOT earn the Title! And he's not a veteran because he did not serve

Response by SSG Marcus Brothers made Aug 6 at 2014 6:12 PM

2014-08-06T18:12:58-04:00

I have to say that I am in the minority on this one, but I am saying he can claim it. I don't the text of the yes option, because I don't think that simply enlisting as a Marine gives you rights to the title. But, here's my case for him specifically:

I must concede that, traditionally, the title Marine is bestowed upon a recruit when he completes his training. I further must concede that he did not reach that point. However, the reason that he didn't reach that point was not fault of his own. He was legitimately injured, apparently enough so that the Veteran's Administration is extending benefits to him. Given their general lack of inclination to extend benefits, the fact that they are extending benefits to him as what amounts to an exception to policy goes directly to my argument. He did what many Americans refuse to do, report to Boot Camp and subject himself to the Uniform Code of Military Justice.

My final point comes from taking this question to its next logical step. If he had fallen off of a rappelling tower to his death, would you expect a Marine detail at his funeral and a flag draped over his coffin?

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 6 at 2014 6:29 PM

2014-08-06T18:29:13-04:00

Use to call them Baby Blue Marine. Marine tradition dictates if you didn't earn the EGA then you are not a Marine. A lot of blood sweat and tears go toward earning that EGA. I have a friend that only made it three weeks and in my eyes he does not deserve to use the title that I worked so hard to earn. He is not part of the brotherhood. For me there is no doubt, NO!

Response by CPL Charles Gale made Aug 6 at 2014 7:00 PM

2014-08-06T19:00:37-04:00

I view the Corps as a very tight knit group or brotherhood so to speak. I personally believe that one must server with that brotherhood to earn that title.I commend his efforts, however he should quit pretending to be something he is not.

Response by CMSgt James Nolan made Aug 6 at 2014 8:34 PM

2014-08-06T20:34:39-04:00

He would be absolutely safe in stating that he was training to become a Marine and got badly injured, which permanently prevented him form completing his training.

He is not a Marine, which is unfortunate, because it was not his fault, but he is not a Marine.

He is a veteran, evidenced by the fact that he is receiving benefits. It is what it is.

Response by SPC David Blackman made Aug 6 at 2014 8:49 PM

2014-08-06T20:49:31-04:00

I have a high respect for marines, and the military in general, and it pisses me off that there are people out there that do this. Especially the ones who are kicked out. I worked hard to become the soldier I am and take pride in that accomplishment.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 6 at 2014 10:27 PM

2014-08-06T22:27:11-04:00

When you are in basic training for the Marine Corps you are considered a recruit until you complete the entire course. After you complete the crucible you earn your eagle, globe and anchor and finally claim the title of Marine. If your friend did not complete the training, then they are not officially a Marine.

I have a similar experience with my friend's sister. She went to Army basic and was injured and did not complete the training. I always see her post comments about being a veteran and it's really irritating. It just seems disrespectful to claim to be the same veteran status as people who have served combat tours for years at a time.

Alll that being said, your friend just seems proud of what he did accomplish and proud to have served at all. Nothing wrong with that.

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 6 at 2014 10:49 PM

2014-08-06T22:49:05-04:00

One of my co-worker's has a son that left for boot camp three weeks ago. In is first week, he caught pneumonia. The x-ray showed an abnormality in that his spine was curved, scoliosis. He's home now and disappointed that MEPS didn't catch it.

Response by Capt Jeff S. made Aug 7 at 2014 12:20 AM

2014-08-07T00:20:38-04:00

I'd call them a disabled veteran but not a Marine. You are not a Marine until you complete bootcamp. While in basic training you are called "recruit".

Response by Sgt Andrew Pouliot made Aug 7 at 2014 1:38 AM

2014-08-07T01:38:11-04:00

No he did not earn the title, and therefore, never was a marine; however, his injuries were a direct result of military-mandated basic training, which means he technically rates those benefits by virtue of having suffered them from the military before he completed his training.

Response by Maj Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 7 at 2014 1:58 AM

2014-08-07T01:58:41-04:00

No, absolutely not. That individual made an honorable choice to enlist but should be very careful not to claim the title if it wasn't earned. Anyone can enlist and then not show up for boot camp. Are they a Marine? Clearly not. If they make it through the first day of boot camp, or first week, or first month, great, but they are not yet a Marine. This only shows they had the courage to show up. The day you transition from Marine Recruit to Private(or LCpl for that hard-charging SOB) is when you're a Marine. The individual you're referring to is walking along the border to stolen valor town.

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 7 at 2014 11:35 AM

2014-08-07T11:35:42-04:00

I am sorry this happened to this individual, but this person did not finish boot camp, so therefore this person did not Earn The Title. Just my 2 cents

Response by Cpl Edward Evans made Aug 7 at 2014 12:00 PM

2014-08-07T12:00:12-04:00

I am a Social Worker that works with veterans benefits here in Cleveland Ohio. I deal with issues such as this on a weekly bases. The answer to your question is this, unfortunately your in-law does not qualify for any veteran services other then from the private sector meaning public charities. The U.S. Government will not recognize him or her as a veteran sadly, even at the state level. I had a homeless client here in Ohio with the exact issue, hurt in boot camp and was discharged. He couldn't even file a claim or apply for financial aid through the local service commission. I am sorry brother.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 7 at 2014 12:12 PM

2014-08-07T12:12:24-04:00

There are only two kinds of people that understand Marines: Marines and the enemy. Everyone else has a second-hand opinion.
Gen. William Thornson, U.S. Army

Response by Maj Chris Nelson made Aug 7 at 2014 12:46 PM

2014-08-07T12:46:53-04:00

I have been Army and Air Force. MY personal opinion is that while injured in line of duty and receiving disability pay, to be a veteran, you must at least complete basic training....I would even go so far as to say even AIT or TECH school. I know the Marine Corps is pretty set on the Crusible.... if you have not completed that, you have not earned the title Marine (again, only my guess tho...). VA is a different creature..... So, I would suspect he could say he was a disabled vet, but not sure how he would discuss it..... ;-)

Response by CWO2 Shelby DuBois made Aug 7 at 2014 2:43 PM

2014-08-07T14:43:54-04:00

I know someone who was put out under similar circumstances. No... he is not a Marine, but that does not stop him from supporting the Corps... bumper sticker on the car, t-shirt, mug... but unless you have the EGA and an I Love Me Wall then no... cannot call himself a Marine.

Response by SGT Ben Keen made Aug 8 at 2014 9:54 AM

2014-08-08T09:54:20-04:00

Veteran...yes; Marine...no.

It's not his fault that he was injuried unless did something dumb like jump out a window. But he never stood to receive his Globe and Anchor therefore the title was never awarded.

Response by Cpl Glynis Sakowicz made Aug 8 at 2014 10:10 AM

2014-08-08T10:10:02-04:00

As someone who was boarded out and retired with a spinal injury, I can identify with this person, because it wasn't his fault he was injured. That said, I can say that I would see this person as a veteran, but not as a Marine.

Response by Cpl Mark Middendorf made Aug 8 at 2014 4:26 PM

2014-08-08T16:26:43-04:00

Certainly not. He's a terminal recruit. Why does it seem that people who haven't done anything are the biggest motards?

Response by SGT Jd Ashley made Aug 12 at 2014 10:17 AM

2014-08-12T10:17:33-04:00

He is not a Marine at all, he tried and failed. I blew out my left knee and had a stress fracture in my right leg while I was becoming an Infantryman for the US Army. You can overcome any injury if you have the mental and intestinal fortitude to continue on. I may be being a little harsh as I do not know this person or his exact injury or circumstances. But from an outward perspective, that is my opinion.

Response by Sgt Samantha Jee made Aug 12 at 2014 5:31 PM

2014-08-12T17:31:01-04:00

He is entitled to benefits since the injury occurred while in service and was discharged for this injury. However, the individual did not pass through boot camp and does not get the title of Marine since he did not earn it.

Response by Sgt David Marksberry made Aug 13 at 2014 1:54 PM

2014-08-13T13:54:59-04:00

Recruit veteran

Response by Cpl Charles Del Rio made Aug 13 at 2014 5:02 PM

2014-08-13T17:02:52-04:00

To me this is really simple. Where the person may have had the heart to become a Marine. Until they actually are givin the EGA they are not Marines. 1st phase bootcamp. (atleast when i was there.) would not allow you to wear anything that said marines. We wore everything inside out. Minus our actually cammies of course. Even then you don't wear the Marine tag either. So I say no. Just my personal opinion though.

Response by Sgt Packy Flickinger made Aug 31 at 2014 5:57 AM

2014-08-31T05:57:11-04:00

First phase? Tough one. I guess if he's collecting disability then he is legally. But if hes going to talk with someone who's done a tour, its going to be hard to keep up when everything starts with "one time in Boot Camp".

When I went in, you didn't "earn" the Eagle, Globe and Anchor untill the last week.

Id give him points for trying, but not really of the brotherhood. I'd also have to know his cicumstances for medical. I've seen a few blow a minor injury out of proportion to get out. NOT that I'm saying hes a maligerer, but it has happened and that would be on my mind.

I had severe bilateral knee injuries in boot camp and they wanted to discharge me. A friend, called a friend who called another with alot of pull (and brass) and here I am. I barely made it through my enlistement and I have nearly daily knee pain now. Denied twice for disability.

Response by LCpl A. Chapman made Sep 1 at 2014 12:49 PM

2014-09-01T12:49:34-04:00

Someone not finishing boot camp does not rate the title Marine, plain and simple. I respect them if the individual states they were a recruit but never finished for whatever reason. I knew someone I found to be doing this on Facebook and called him out on it. He was going around telling people he was in the Corps a while and even had it on his profile he had been in 4 years when I know his whole injured at boot camp story. I cannot stand military posers and I see that as being a military poser.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 2 at 2014 2:47 PM

2014-09-02T14:47:39-04:00

This person did not complete the required training to "earn" the title of Marine. So in retrospect, they should consider them selves a "recruit" as all Marines are considered until they complete their basic training and are given their EGA. I am sure Cpl Private RallyPoint Member you heard and have seen what happens to recruits that call themselves a Marine before they earn it.

-Semper Fi!

Response by Sgt Todd Hinkle made Sep 2 at 2014 3:03 PM

2014-09-02T15:03:47-04:00

As all my fellow Devil Dogs know, there is only one way to be able to claim the title "Marine." That would be, after being awarded your Eagle, Globe, and Anchor. There are no ifs, ands, or buts about it. If he was hurt in boot camp and discharged AFTER being awarded his EGA then yes.....he's a Marine. If he was NEVER awarded the EGA then no he is not a Marine.

With all that being said, I'll say this. Him having a lot of Marine Corps gear around his house, I have no problem with that. He chose to step on those yellow footprints and had the desire to earn the title Marine and I'm sure it affects him to this day that he did not accomplish that feat. As to him, referring to himself as a Marine, I'm sure he's probably not doing it in the sense of "Stolen Valor Act" but he should be set straight that while unfortunate and to no fault of his own, he is NOT a Marine.

Response by SGT Robert Croce made Sep 3 at 2014 1:06 PM

2014-09-03T13:06:58-04:00

Don't forget, hundreds of USMC reservists that never went through Boot Camp were activated for Combat duty in Korea. They fought, were wounded and died with their units. They never went through Boot Camp before or after the war. Never officially awarded the Globe and Anchor but in my book Marines through and through.

Response by SSgt Lance Taylor made Sep 3 at 2014 3:38 PM

2014-09-03T15:38:41-04:00

We were called Recruits until graduation day at boot camp. Only then were we told that we had earned the title of Marine. Therefore, no someone who had the heart to try to become a Marine, but didn't complete boot camp is not a Marine.

If the story in one of the comments about some Reservists that went to war without going to boot camp is true, then they earned their title on the battlefield. However, that story sounds a bit fishy.

Response by Sgt Cedric Brookes made Sep 3 at 2014 3:40 PM

2014-09-03T15:40:13-04:00

The title Marine is earned and not given. Your in-law is receiving compensation for injuries sustained while in training to become a Marine. During boot camp we were not allowed to call each other Marine or even bark like a devil dog up until phase 3. He had the heart to become one so I'm on board with any Marine Corps paraphernalia that he'd like to display, after all it doesn't take a marine to love the Corps or Marines. Semper Fi!

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 3 at 2014 7:12 PM

2014-09-03T19:12:40-04:00

Veteran: Yes.

Enlisted in the Marine: Yes

A Marine: No, if he did not go through the crucible, and did not earn his Eagle Globe and Anchor, then Nope.

Response by Capt Chris McVeigh made Sep 3 at 2014 11:12 PM

2014-09-03T23:12:49-04:00

That's like saying "I attended BUD/S but I got injured in the first week so they dropped me. But I went to part of the course so I'm totally a SEAL."

Response by Cpl Benjamin Miller made Sep 10 at 2014 11:47 AM

2014-09-10T11:47:44-04:00

He didn't make it so he can never call himself a Marine. I worked with 2 of these broke recruits and they have stickers and t shirts and tell boot camp stories. It makes me sick. They even wanted to join in on our Birthday Celebration one year.

Response by SSG Maurice P. made Sep 10 at 2014 4:38 PM

2014-09-10T16:38:57-04:00

he to me earned the title when he got disabled...

Response by SgtMaj Christopher Gagliano made Sep 11 at 2014 11:56 AM

2014-09-11T11:56:24-04:00

If you didnt cross the grinder on Graduation day you were just another washout and wanna be

Response by Cpl Dr Ronnie Manns made Sep 11 at 2014 12:16 PM

2014-09-11T12:16:09-04:00

It has always been those who earn the title completed the training, you cannot call yourself a doctor if you did not earn the degree but left school for any reason before graduating. I do believe that they do deserve respect because at least they tried. The ones I really would like to shake are those who never attempted but tries to claim the name.

But there is another form of Marine Veteran who is not a Marine. It's those who earned the title but conduct themselves both in the Corp and in the civilian world in a manner that reflects badly on our honor. If you honorably earned the title then you are much more than just another military member, you are a Marine and should always conduct yourself as such. I'm talking about those who use the title to advance themselves knowing that the Corp has never been about self-indulgence or those who appear in public wearing the uniform helping a group who are not performing for the good of the nation but for the good of their wallets, purses or themselves. I'm talking about those who may have earned the title but have forgotten that we always head toward the noise instead of away from it, those who say they are Marine but wouldn't stand and defend those who cannot defend themselves. You know the ones.

Response by SFC Mark Merino made Sep 12 at 2014 2:00 PM

2014-09-12T14:00:34-04:00

I have nothing but love and respect for the USMC. But aren't you all bonded by surviving boot camp and earning your coveted EGA?

Response by CPO Jon Campbell made Sep 12 at 2014 2:10 PM

2014-09-12T14:10:42-04:00

I worked with guy who lied about not having asthma and then fell out of a run with an attack at the beginning of boot camp. He was processed out (not retired). He has a huge Marine tattoo, and he will let anyone believe he was a Marine.

Response by Cpl Murray Estes made Sep 12 at 2014 2:23 PM

2014-09-12T14:23:42-04:00

I say no. I'm a firm believer in not having earned the title of Marine until you've recieved the Eagle, Globe, and Anchor from your DI and undergo that ceremony at the end of the Crucible (or for you salty dogs before the Crucible, surviving basic training in general). Either way, the title isn't earned until the end of boot camp. If you drop from basic for whatever reason, you don't have the right to call yourself Marine (okay, you do have that right, but I have the right to beat your ass for being a liar).

Response by Sgt Britton Burkett made Sep 12 at 2014 2:35 PM

2014-09-12T14:35:19-04:00

He's a punk

Response by SPC Jason Tapert made Oct 5 at 2014 11:33 AM

2014-10-05T11:33:48-04:00

Most people that Claim this and that and have stickers and paraphernalia everywhere from what I have noticed never have or were active duty. They put the stickers and stuff to make themselves feel big and feel like they are doing/did something for the country.

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 6 at 2014 11:51 AM

2014-10-06T11:51:37-04:00

I've seen this before and it really kinda pisses me off.. They didn't make it through and get the EGA... so I for one would say nope... not even close. If he had fought hard enough they would have let him stay in... Hell he may of even been able to try again once he was fixed... No offense to the in-law but sounds like a case of sand in the v... can't claim it if you didn't earn it.

Response by Capt Richard I P. made Oct 28 at 2014 2:35 PM

2014-10-28T14:35:43-04:00

Cpl Private RallyPoint Member Seems like a lot of people have already answered this the way I would: earned, never given.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 29 at 2014 11:41 AM

2014-10-29T11:41:05-04:00

I don't know if it's different in the Marine Corps, but when I was in Army basic, we could not be called Soldiers until we completed all of the requirements to graduate.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 29 at 2014 11:56 AM

2014-10-29T11:56:01-04:00

I'm not a Marine, but I do care. You have to earn the title and respect a Marine, Sailor, Soldier, or Airman is given.

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 29 at 2014 12:57 PM

2014-10-29T12:57:14-04:00

HMMMM... someone has hijacked my thread and added a picture. Not really the picture I would have used for this thread... I would have used a picture of someone in civies carrying a duffle bag.

Response by SSG Ronald Limbaugh made Oct 29 at 2014 1:27 PM

2014-10-29T13:27:32-04:00

If I had failed to complete Infantry OSUT, there is no way way I would be able to say I was an Infantryman... as with any sort of school, you have to complete, or graduate, in order to claim the title. Sorry, but this kid/guy is not a Marine.

Response by MSgt Samuel Thornton made Oct 29 at 2014 3:45 PM

2014-10-29T15:45:33-04:00

Whether it's with the Marine Corps, the Air Force, or the Navy, etc. If you did not complete basic training then you have not earned the right to carry the title regardless of why you did not complete it. Yes he's a Marine Corps veteran but he's not a Marine. That's my opinion.

Response by LCpl Clint Atkins made Oct 29 at 2014 5:15 PM

2014-10-29T17:15:59-04:00

He was injured so yes he served but you are not a Marine until you are called one at graduation

Response by SGT(P) Harry Clyde Jr. made Oct 29 at 2014 5:42 PM

2014-10-29T17:42:06-04:00

I honestly believe that unless its catastrophic that you need to finish basic then ait (job) to gain the title of your service.
Ive seen where a service member gets hurt in basic/ait and given the choice heal and continue or get out and get benifits/retirement they choose the latter. I wont mention the service but one told me he took the latter cause he knew he would get paid and without having to do anything. He had a pre condition prior to coming in that the recruiters bypassed then got through basic and part of ait before the issue came up again. Was pulled from training and yhe medical paperwork was completed along with a new physical. He was gone around the same time he could have graduated.Though he thought differently he didnt earn the title or the retirement for that matter.
My 2 bits.

Response by SGT Kristin Wiley made Oct 29 at 2014 5:45 PM

2014-10-29T17:45:11-04:00

Under law he is a Marine, according to anyone else he isn't.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 29 at 2014 5:53 PM

2014-10-29T17:53:54-04:00

You are not a Marine until you earn the title after you complete the crucible and graduate. That's why you aren't called a private in recruit training. You are a recruit in recruit training. You have not even earned the title of basically trained Marine which is what you become after recruit training. I can't stand when individuals who fail to graduate recruit training go around claiming to be Marines (whether medically discharged or not). If you got medsepped you can go back in 2 years and try again. It seems these individuals are always the most moto individuals too, kind of like poolies...

Response by SN Jennifer M. made Oct 30 at 2014 4:21 AM

2014-10-30T04:21:55-04:00

My sister went into the Navy and didn't make it through boot camp. What annoys the most is that she says that she was in the navy. NO YOU WERE NOT & I for sure beg to differ.

Response by Cpl Aaron Nelson made Oct 30 at 2014 10:00 AM

2014-10-30T10:00:34-04:00

Let's see.. I was called all kinds of colorful things during all three phases of boot camp, but never once was I called a Marine until I stood on the Parade Deck graduation morning. So no, if he didn't graduate he doesn't get the title. Good try buddy, but you didn't make it.

I don't have a problem with folks wearing moto gear in support of the Marine Corps, but don't call yourself a Marine because you went to boot camp for a week or two. Unless you heard the words "Good Morning Marines" on that glorious morning then you are not a Marine.

Response by PO1 Ron Clark made Oct 30 at 2014 3:50 PM

2014-10-30T15:50:36-04:00

Disabled veteran yes, Marine no! You have to complete Marine Basic Training prior to becoming a full fledged Marine. If you just got injured the first or second week of training and then discharged you have not fulfilled all the boot camp requirements to become a Marine and it would not be fair to those Marines who have.

Response by SSgt Gregory Gardner made Nov 2 at 2014 12:44 PM

2014-11-02T12:44:05-05:00

If on graduation day, you were not given and you did not receive your eagle, globe and anchor, you have not earned the title of Marine...

Response by SSG (ret) William Martin made Nov 2 at 2014 2:33 PM

2014-11-02T14:33:37-05:00

I know what its like to earn something, and when I do I take pride in the accomplishment. Wearing a hat to show pride in the USMC as a time honored organization is great but saying one is a Marine yet they did not complete boot camp but was discharged medically shows a lack of integrity and reality.

Response by Cpl Christopher Allen-Shinn made Nov 2 at 2014 6:11 PM

2014-11-02T18:11:15-05:00

With all due respect to your in-law, I don't believe that he has the right to claim the title, but I also have empathy for him because I am a disabled veteran too. It's a hard situation and a fairly unusual one. He enlisted, but if he did the "seabag drag" prior to earning the title, he should tone down the USMC talk and paraphernalia. That's my opinion on this matter.

Response by CW2 Joseph Evans made Nov 3 at 2014 12:19 AM

2014-11-03T00:19:05-05:00

I'm going with veteran, because he signed on the dotted line. His injuries were service related even if he never completed the training.
But I fully understand that to be a "Marine" there is a requirement he failed to meet, in much the same way the Army Infantry feels about their ropes.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 3 at 2014 8:58 AM

2014-11-03T08:58:13-05:00

He has done more than most of the population by at least raising his right hand and trying to service his country.

Response by Capt James Clement made Nov 3 at 2014 10:31 AM

2014-11-03T10:31:08-05:00

I can't say anything better than what all the Marine NCOs say below...They know better than I do, so I'm siding with them.

Response by Cpl Christopher Bishop made Nov 4 at 2014 7:07 PM

2014-11-04T19:07:10-05:00

The process of being trained to serve, in and of itself, is NOT serving. In fact I don't personally believe the start date of the years you committed to should even begin until after you have graduated Boot Camp, gone home for your short break, and then actually reported to your school.

You didn't do your country any good by being around Drill Instructors only to cry boohoo and go home. And if you don't care about that because you were only in it for the benefits to yourself, than you were just another Exploiter instead of Contributor to American society anyway, and it must have been "God's Will" (a bit of sarcasm, most of you whom are active here know I'm Agnostic) that you went home.

Additionally I suspect most basic training injuries could have been avoided. No rewards should be given to those who had a hard time separating one's Brain Housing Group from one's Excrement Dispenser.

If the particular person mentioned above is parading around as a Marine, they should be treated in same way we generally treat other Stolen Valor asshats...at least some of them were actually Veterans.

Pay close attention to the words you Marines heard the night you at Boot Camp. "...you will pass through these doors one time and begin the transformation into becoming a United States Marine."

The end of that very transformation is not until Graduation Day.

Semper Fi.

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 5 at 2014 11:02 PM

2014-11-05T23:02:12-05:00

As one Marine to one that almost made it...for whatever reason...almost doesn't count. However, what is the difference if he graduated boot camp, and the same thing happened one week later? I guess, on the latter, he would of earned his EGA....thus earning the title of Marine. So according to everything that I have ever known and celebrated. You have to graduate first. 1st phase...pssshhht, anyone can make it through 1 phase...well maybe not everyone, not my bunk mate anyways.

Response by LCpl Ray Gaytan made Nov 6 at 2014 11:05 AM

2014-11-06T11:05:50-05:00

Nope - didn't make it past 1st phase, and to earn the title, you must earn the Eagle Globe and Anchor.

Response by Cpl Gregory Hajder made Nov 6 at 2014 12:47 PM

2014-11-06T12:47:03-05:00

Only those who have completed basic training can call themselves Marine.

Response by LT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 7 at 2014 7:10 AM

2014-11-07T07:10:52-05:00

He never completed basic training, so no. If he volunteers at organizations and supports the USMC, that is great, but it does not make him a Marine

Response by Cpl Jeremy Jones made Nov 7 at 2014 7:33 AM

2014-11-07T07:33:17-05:00

Maybe if made it half way I could maybe see it but no I feel if did not complete 13 weeks and earn yourself the title your not a marine your a recruit

Response by PO2 Christopher Morehouse made Nov 9 at 2014 7:35 AM

2014-11-09T07:35:28-05:00

I earned the title, but only served a year and a half in the Reserves, and I have a hard time calling myself a Marine when standing next to those who served a full contract and performed multiple tours in the sand box. The man's goal and attempt were great, but close equals no cigar.

Response by CPO Ed Hanley made Nov 9 at 2014 7:18 PM

2014-11-09T19:18:53-05:00

am not a Marine so would defer to those that are if he has the right to use the title

Response by SGT James LeFebvre made Nov 10 at 2014 8:45 PM

2014-11-10T20:45:41-05:00

No, because you are not a Marine until you're done with boot camp. Same as someone who failed to finish basic calling themselves a soldier.

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 10 at 2014 9:34 PM

2014-11-10T21:34:56-05:00

Of course not. He didn't earn it. I'm in the navy and even I know that

Response by A1C Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 11 at 2014 7:30 PM

2014-11-11T19:30:36-05:00

In the Air Force, you are a trainee until you finish basic. You graduate or you will not call yourself an airman, I think that would be the case in every branch, considering basic training teaches you to be the person they want you to be.

Response by LCpl Ray Gaytan made Nov 12 at 2014 4:02 PM

2014-11-12T16:02:40-05:00

If everyone was hurt due to injury and medical reasons, everyone would be a Marine; and therefore full basic training wouldn't be required. I hurt my knee, back, and was in severe pain - but persevered because that what makes a Marine!

During receiving, I remember DI saying 30-40 percent of you won't make it through boot camp, at the time, I didn't know what he meant. "No I do......." This is why we are the "few and proud."

So no, he is not a Marine - if you can't make it past 1st phrase, there you weren't fit to be a Marine.

It is all mental.

Again Respectfully

Response by Sgt Franklin B. made Nov 12 at 2014 4:53 PM

2014-11-12T16:53:29-05:00

He did not graduate boot camp he has not earned the right to the title.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 14 at 2014 7:04 PM

2014-11-14T19:04:05-05:00

I dont think they have the right to call themselves marines if they didnt complete the training.

Response by SPC Geoffrey Jenkins made Nov 16 at 2014 11:43 AM

2014-11-16T11:43:59-05:00

He does not qualify as a Marine veteran.
He did not take the road to heal and finish his training/it makes me sick to hear these stories of stolen valor.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 16 at 2014 11:53 AM

2014-11-16T11:53:05-05:00

Considering he did more than the rest of the country has done which is raise his right hand and volunteer to protect the country I kind of think he's still a marine. I was always told there is no such thing as a "Former Marine"

Response by Sgt Philip Edwards made Nov 16 at 2014 3:41 PM

2014-11-16T15:41:18-05:00

Can't give him the title. Sorry. PRP? I remember MRP (med rehab platoon), and PCP (pork chop platoon).

Response by Sgt John Coningsby made Nov 17 at 2014 11:10 PM

2014-11-17T23:10:50-05:00

Forget the official graduation...no Eagle Globe and Anchor ceremony, not a Marine.

That's why we referred to ourselves as recruits throughout boot camp. No other service does that, that I'm aware.

Response by Cpl Rusty Benigar made Nov 19 at 2014 3:23 PM

2014-11-19T15:23:50-05:00

no he is not a marine. he didn't complete bootcamp. I will give him a big E for effort. thanks for trying.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 6 at 2014 11:00 AM

2014-12-06T11:00:56-05:00

He was supposedly afforded the opportunity to stay in and try to recover and chose to take an 'out'. What's he a 'veteran' of? Boot camp? I wouldn't call him a Marine or a veteran. I'd call him a military washout at best.

It's one thing to fall to an injury while at least trying to serve your country. It's a whole separate thing for a boot camp washout (who didn't even TRY to go through PRP/MRP) to shamelessly flaunt USMC paraphernalia, while REAL veterans are recovering from REAL combat scars.

What a tool!

Response by PO2 Corey Ferretti made Dec 6 at 2014 3:58 PM

2014-12-06T15:58:35-05:00

I would say he is not a marine he did not complete the crucible. Im pretty sure he has been told this before from Marines.

Response by Cpl Josh Webber made Dec 6 at 2014 4:30 PM

2014-12-06T16:30:05-05:00

No way! He didn't recieve that EGA, Hes not a Marine

Response by CWO4 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 6 at 2014 7:35 PM

2014-12-06T19:35:07-05:00

You earn the title Marine when you graduate Recruit Training. He may be entitled to Veteran's Benefits but he did not become a Marine.

Response by Sgt James Fraser made Dec 6 at 2014 11:08 PM

2014-12-06T23:08:49-05:00

I know a person that does something similar except he is a Marine. He got med separated during SOI so he never graduated that training, yet his truck is decked out with all kinds of 0311 and Grunt stickers. When talking to him he even used the term POG in referring to other Marines. I've confronted him on his stance and claim before and he just blows it off.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 7 at 2014 3:00 PM

2014-12-07T15:00:42-05:00

Hell no. I was injured after having been deployed to Afghan and completing MSG school but now an fighting my ass off to not get admin separated for gaining weight tryn to lose weight before i lose my G.I. Bill so fuck that guy and EARN dosnt need quotations cause we all earned it.

Response by SSgt Dan Montague made Dec 7 at 2014 7:30 PM

2014-12-07T19:30:53-05:00

When I was a recruiter, we had kids come home injured. Some of them devastated to no end. However, they did not earn that title. Because you did 4 months in PCP or medical then discharged doesn't earn you the title.

Response by Sgt Marty Acosta made Dec 7 at 2014 8:24 PM

2014-12-07T20:24:24-05:00

Could definitely say he was in training to be a Marine, but no, he did not earn the title.

Response by LCpl Clif Crosswhite made Dec 7 at 2014 8:22 PM

2014-12-07T20:22:12-05:00

Once A Marine Always A Marine

Response by LCpl Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 7 at 2014 8:29 PM

2014-12-07T20:29:20-05:00

Unless he was handed an Eagle, Globe and Anchor like the rest of us, he is not a Marine.

Response by Cpl Dave Ulmer made Dec 7 at 2014 10:05 PM

2014-12-07T22:05:50-05:00

You don't enlist as a Marine. You enlist to become a Marine. The first option isn't even a valid one. If you don't complete the training you haven't met the first requirement in becoming a Marine. I have no problems with him flying the flag or wearing t-shirts ot sweatshirts with the USMC on them. Support us and be proud of us. Just remember that you aren't one of us.

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 7 at 2014 10:17 PM

2014-12-07T22:17:42-05:00

The Title is earned. Yes he went to Boot Camp, unfortunately he did not graduate. He never earned it, so therefore he cannot claim it.

Response by TSgt Jackie Jones made Dec 7 at 2014 11:40 PM

2014-12-07T23:40:35-05:00

Does the VA recognize him as a Marine?

It seems as though his heart was fully in it, but something prevented him from remaining a Marine. I know the Marine mentality (I married one) and I think it's safe to say as long as he doesn't go around telling fake stories and lying about his service, he can call himself a Marine.
I know people who never served that have the memorabilia and military SWAG.

Response by Sgt Chris Sotak made Dec 8 at 2014 1:21 AM

2014-12-08T01:21:34-05:00

I had USMC paraphernalia @ 16 years old, including a giant poster of Ollie north taking the oath before the congessionial committe for iran-contra. I thought he looked bad ass in his Alphas!

Response by SSG Christopher Parrish made Dec 8 at 2014 8:41 AM

2014-12-08T08:41:11-05:00

I have had this discussion in the past with others SM and Vets on a separate site, and pretty much got blasted for my thoughts. So here goes...

It is my understanding, as a Soldier, that you are not a Marine until your DIs address you as such, which usually means you have made it through the Crucible. Where I got blasted was from older Marines who became Marines before the Crucible was instituted, so I explained my ignorance of the time in which a person makes the magical transformation from boot to Marine.

If someone went on medical disability before officially graduating, I would think they would not be called a Marine. They have certainly earned my respect as someone who signed up with the full intent of serving and they took the oath we all swore to.

Response by Cpl Brian D made Dec 8 at 2014 10:51 AM

2014-12-08T10:51:30-05:00

While I commend the original effort, the answer is NO! Abso-effin-lutely NOT! There's a hot shot I went to HS with who was booted from PI long after the rest of us had gone to war and back. To this day he claims he had kidney failure. Tells everyone. He told ME his mother called either PI or his recruiter stating he lied during enlistment and had psych issues as a kid. I'll believe she did that. He tells people that the Marines sent him "honorary blues" in the mail and extended an invitation for enlistment again. Right. Major BS. Neither of these people are Marines nor should they be considered a veteran. A veteran of what?

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 8 at 2014 2:35 PM

2014-12-08T14:35:17-05:00

If he didnt cover up medical disqual then technically yes. But of he didnt get as far as getting his globe and anchor at the end of the Crucible to it. other vets probably wouldnt take to kindly to it.

Response by Sgt Virgil Medeiros made Dec 8 at 2014 3:51 PM

2014-12-08T15:51:13-05:00

I understand why they are able to collect disability but that doesn't make them a Marine. Marines don't just show up, they must endure, and stand on the parade direct on graduation morning, shoulder to shoulder with all other Marines that have graduated.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 8 at 2014 3:54 PM

2014-12-08T15:54:11-05:00

Not a Marine but I see no issue wearing and displaying Marine Corps paraphernalia as a means of support. Just as long as the individual doesn't claim the title when questioned

Response by SSG John Erny made Dec 8 at 2014 5:01 PM

2014-12-08T17:01:33-05:00

The correct tittle would be disabled service member, they tried. You have to honor that, the same applies to all branches. If you get hurt in Airborne School and do not make all 5 training jumps you can not wear the wings, you are not a paratrooper.

Response by Cpl Andrew Pritchett made Dec 8 at 2014 5:45 PM

2014-12-08T17:45:00-05:00

No EGA no title

Response by Cpl Kyle Donoho made Dec 8 at 2014 6:12 PM

2014-12-08T18:12:15-05:00

No Eagle, Globe and Anchor, no title. Not a Marine.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 8 at 2014 7:24 PM

2014-12-08T19:24:12-05:00

Nothing wrong with having moto stuff but you have to earn the title to claim the title. That means walking across the parade deck on graduation day.

Response by LCpl Todd Rimbey made Dec 8 at 2014 7:54 PM

2014-12-08T19:54:34-05:00

Your not a marine till the ega is earned.

Response by Cpl Larry Anderson made Dec 8 at 2014 7:58 PM

2014-12-08T19:58:22-05:00

No you are not a Marine if you did not complete Boot Camp training .

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 8 at 2014 8:11 PM

2014-12-08T20:11:44-05:00

In the Air Force, you are called an Airman until you graduate from basic training. Until then, you are a trainee. In the Navy, you are not called a Sailor until after you graduate from basic training. Until then, you are a recruit, or "Rick." Unsure of what the Army and the Coast Guard does, but it has got to be similar. It would only make sense that you should not expect to be called a Marine until after completing Marine Corps basic training.

Response by SPC Vinnie Trujillo made Dec 8 at 2014 8:15 PM

2014-12-08T20:15:51-05:00

I am not a Marine and did not vote...the vote should be left to Marines. This is a simple one though...if you have to ask...don't you already have the answer? In the Infantry (U.S. Army...no jokes assholes...lol)...everything was Go or No Go...you passed it all or you didn't pass it period.

Response by Cpl Darren Thomas made Dec 8 at 2014 8:43 PM

2014-12-08T20:43:21-05:00

Sorry!!! You have to earn that title. Doesn't matter if you made it until the night before graduation and got injured. You have to walk across the parade deck!!! That's where the title is bestowed!

Response by GySgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 8 at 2014 9:12 PM

2014-12-08T21:12:19-05:00

Medically discharged in 1st Phase? You're still wiping your ass "By the numbers" in 1st Phase. Hell, he was probably still wearing sneakers in cammies when he got hurt. No, he didn't earn it. It's just how the culture thinks and feels. Could one claim the title of SEAL if you got cut before finishing BUDS?

Response by Cpl Brian Yanez made Dec 8 at 2014 9:31 PM

2014-12-08T21:31:15-05:00

As many have already stated, you are not a Marine unless you have done all of your training and have officially earned your title and awarded your Eagle, Globe, and Anchor. My only true gripe are the people who exaggerate how much they really did and that they are indeed a full fledged Marine. To be honest in my opinion, a Marine is also fully trained so if you also did not complete MCT/ITB (either or) and also not completed your MOS school then I still have my doubts about calling you a full fledged Marine.

Response by PO2 John Winters made Dec 8 at 2014 10:02 PM

2014-12-08T22:02:35-05:00

My son is a Marine. If you didn't make it through "The Gauntlet" and earn your EGA, you're not a Marine. Until that minute, they were recruits. Only after they were given their EGA were they called Marines. This guy is embellishing his service and I believe he wouldn't fair well faced with a real Marine.

Response by LCpl Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 8 at 2014 10:14 PM

2014-12-08T22:14:23-05:00

no that is absolutely ridiculous

Response by Sgt Joshua Seavey made Dec 8 at 2014 10:21 PM

2014-12-08T22:21:15-05:00

If you do not go through and graduate Marine Corps Basic Training... you are NOT a Marine.

In order to become a Marine you must complete:

The minimum (core) graduation requirements are:

(1) Pass the physical fitness test and be within prescribed weight standards

(2) Qualify for Combat Water Survival at level 4 or higher

(3) Qualify with the service rifle

(4) Pass the batallion commander's inspection

(5) Pass the written tests

(6) Complete the Crucible

If you fail in any of the above areas, you are subject to be "recycled" (sent backwards in time to another platoon), or may possibly be discharged. Here's how your 13 weeks breaks down in actual hours:

Instructional Time (The Crucible / Combat Water Survival / Weapons and Field Training): 279.5 hours
Core Values / Academics / Values Reinforcement: 41.5
Physical Fitness: 59
Close Order Drill: 54.5
Field Training: 31
Close Combat Training: 27
Conditioning Marches: 13
Administration: 60
Senior DI Time (nightly free time): 55.5
Movement Time: 60
Sleep: 479
Basic Daily Routine: 210
Chow: 179
Total: 1518 hours

Source: http://www.militaryspot.com/marines/get-ready-for-marine-bootcamp/
In case you want to see where I pulled the info from.

Hope this clears things up for you.

Basic Training - Marine Corps - U.S. Marines

Basic Training - Marine Corps

Response by Cpl Robert LaVoie made Dec 8 at 2014 10:41 PM

2014-12-08T22:41:40-05:00

Corporal

Response by SPC Phillip Ludlow made Dec 9 at 2014 1:19 AM

2014-12-09T01:19:32-05:00

Response by Cpl Curtis Olsen made Dec 9 at 2014 4:41 AM

2014-12-09T04:41:55-05:00

To this day I still remember receiving my EGA and my drill instructor tell me "now you may call yourself marine" we had to earn it all the right to wear our boots the right to blouse our boots and even the right to undo the top button of our blouse, everything about a marine is earned not given and to me this individual has "given" himself the title of marine, forget the technicalities of whether he was a marine he did not earn it, ask any marine and they will stand by these words

Response by Cpl Timothy Holt made Dec 9 at 2014 7:49 AM

2014-12-09T07:49:58-05:00

You have to earn the title. Until then, your'e just a recruit. My vote is not a Marine.

Response by MSgt Ken Roberts made Dec 9 at 2014 8:01 AM

2014-12-09T08:01:46-05:00

I'm glad he didn't make it. He obviously has no honor nor conscience.

Response by LCpl Joshua Sauvageau made Dec 9 at 2014 8:08 AM

2014-12-09T08:08:53-05:00

I have to say no.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 9 at 2014 8:35 AM

2014-12-09T08:35:31-05:00

As all Marines know, you do not earn the title of Marine until you march across the grinder at graduation. Albeit he was injured during recruit training, he chose to leave without attempting rehab. 1st phase is all admin and drill, not sure how a severe enough injury could have resulted.

Response by LCpl Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 9 at 2014 9:41 AM

2014-12-09T09:41:28-05:00

We had a recruit in 3rd phase find out he had a heart problem and had to go home , he knows he's not a marine but we still consider him a brother.

Response by 1stLt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 9 at 2014 10:32 AM

2014-12-09T10:32:00-05:00

I think he's great for trying, but not a Marine. He didn't complete the whole program, which washes candidates out at indescriminate times, therefore he cannot be called a Marine. I lead a platoon that all met all training requirements, if those that I stand before didn't complete all requirements then they wouldn't be standing before me, or I before them, or could they, they can't, I couldn't, you see, surely; NO.

Response by SSG Ike Phelan made Dec 9 at 2014 10:49 AM

2014-12-09T10:49:17-05:00

No I did not earn the title Marine but I did earn the title Staff Sargent in the U.S. Army. While I was in the army I was awarded the great honor of getting to trian our troops at AIT where I served as both a platoon Sargent and an instructor. I was an instructor officially my duties as a platoon Sargent where just so I could be a liaison between the school house and the company leadership at the platoon level there where 220 soldiers in a platoon with only two platoon Sargent so as you can imagen I was less a liaison and more of a platoon Sargent I did everything they did to include working the hours that they worked.
I will ask this and then someone can tell me if I was informed correctly. Until you graduate your basic training in the Marines they call you recruit all through training and then at the end when you are handed the globe and Ankor they address you as marine for the first time if this is true then that says it all. If I am wrong then please call me out on it I am not trying to misinform anyone.

I will not say weather he can call himself a marine I believe someone who served in the Marines should make that call preferably someone who did more then four years I believe a lot of knowledge comes with time served more years served the more weight their opinion holds. I will speak on what my opinion would be if this was a soldier in the army and that is no they are not a soldier they never earned the title there for they are not soldiers you need to graduate from basic training and then be awarded a job in the military before you can consider yourself a soldier. I do not know of any job that you can claim to do if you never completed the training a plumer can not call himself plumber with out first finishing his training a kid who plays football in high school does not grow up and call himself a football player you have to graduate or atleast attend college for sometime and then be drafted in to the NFL before you can call yourself a football player and have it hold any weight. I think that this is very common situation were people who spend very little time with our armed forces tend to have the biggest mouths about there service.

Response by Cpl Jake Mullins made Dec 9 at 2014 10:59 AM

2014-12-09T10:59:17-05:00

He's a disgrace to everyone who ever wore the uniform.

Response by Cpl James Despenza made Dec 9 at 2014 11:08 AM

2014-12-09T11:08:41-05:00

If u ddnt pass the crucible then no not a marine

Response by Cpl Martin Trester made Dec 9 at 2014 11:13 AM

2014-12-09T11:13:52-05:00

He is entitled to benefits based on the fact that he was technically enlisted in the military at the time of his injury, however he is not entitled to claim that he is a Marine. He did not graduate boot camp and therefore did not earn the title Marine.

Response by Sgt Jason Lomeli made Dec 9 at 2014 11:38 AM

2014-12-09T11:38:28-05:00

Hell No!!!! Not a Marine!!! He didn't even finish first phase!!!!

Response by Cpl Jennifer Comford made Dec 9 at 2014 11:42 AM

2014-12-09T11:42:26-05:00

No,this person joined the Marine Corps but since they did not finish bootcamp you cannot be consider a Marine. They are getting benefits based solely on the fact that they were injured during training not because they are a Marine.

Response by Cpl Jared Kuyt made Dec 9 at 2014 11:46 AM

2014-12-09T11:46:56-05:00

That happened to a friend of mine, he doesn't claim the title, nor does he even mention he's receiving benefits.

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 9 at 2014 11:56 AM

2014-12-09T11:56:29-05:00

Medically discharged in training is not the same as medically retired due to an injury while serving (especially in combat). He was IN the Marines (for about 5 minutes), but he ISN'T a Marine, because you don't EARN that title until you complete the Crucible. Even if he's collecting disability, I wouldn't even call him a veteran because he never actually served.

Response by Cpl Austin Hayward made Dec 9 at 2014 12:13 PM

2014-12-09T12:13:56-05:00

Didn't o through the crucifix and didn't earn the EGA sorry bud not a Marine

Response by Cpl Michael Boyd made Dec 9 at 2014 12:25 PM

2014-12-09T12:25:21-05:00

I have no problem with the individual collecting these benefits, however, if he was not there to receive his Eagle, Globe and Anchor then he is not a Marine. If he never got "promoted" from recruit to Marine, then the title "Marine" is not something he rates.

Response by LCpl Michael Granado made Dec 9 at 2014 12:37 PM

2014-12-09T12:37:46-05:00

Not to sound like a dick..BUT.. if you didnt receive your EGA i dont see how you could consider yourself a MARINE.

Response by LCpl Ron Saporito made Dec 9 at 2014 12:56 PM

2014-12-09T12:56:35-05:00

Definitely not a Marine you need to earn it.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 9 at 2014 1:01 PM

2014-12-09T13:01:04-05:00

Regardless of his discharge he did not walk across that parade deck and get called a Marine for the first time. Not sure how they do it now but thats when you where able to call yourself a Marine back in 83.

Response by Pvt Travis Reiss made Dec 9 at 2014 1:12 PM

2014-12-09T13:12:18-05:00

I personally was discharge 2 years into the corps.. I finished boot and school and spent about a year in a half in camp Pendleton. I never deployed and state that every time. Due to my 25 days in the brig for smoking marijuana and violating the Corps drug policy. I do not receive any benefits. My friends and family all say I'm a marine. And I come from a whole family of marines (father brothers 3, and grandfather) but I have a hard time believing it myself. I do love to corps and have no regrets on joining. As for this guy... no didn't earn shit.

Response by Cpl Dino Perry made Dec 9 at 2014 2:26 PM

2014-12-09T14:26:31-05:00

I keep reading these and people continue to say he can call himself a veteran but not a Marine. What is he a veteran of? Boot camp? He's nothing. He's somebody who tried but didn't make it,regardless of how he was injured. You don't earn things by failing to do them.

Response by A1C Sean Taylor made Dec 9 at 2014 2:32 PM

2014-12-09T14:32:02-05:00

He/She should get some respect. He/She volunteered to serve this country and was prevented from doing so by an injury.

Response by LCpl Clint McCaleb made Dec 9 at 2014 3:00 PM

2014-12-09T15:00:41-05:00

I appreciate the sacrifice of this person by getting in there, giving it a shot, and getting injured in the process. It is universally accepted that you earn the title once you are presented with your EGA. When I went through it was at the very end of boot camp right before you cross that parade deck. I understand that they may do it a little earlier now (post crucible).

This person is not a Marine, however he or she should be proud of the effort put forth.

Response by MSgt Andrew Radford made Dec 9 at 2014 3:53 PM

2014-12-09T15:53:58-05:00

Seems like a very simple answer to me. If you didn't complete recruit training (or OCS) then you aren't a Marine. Pretty much like graduating college; if you don't complete the classes required for the degree program, you can't really call yourself a college graduate, aside from walking in a graduation ceremony.

It's really a slap in the face to every Marine who did complete recruit training. As someone else stated, it sucks the guy was injured and had to be dropped from training, but just because he receives some sort of compensation for his service-connected injury in boot camp doesn't mean he's a Marine. He didn't complete boot camp, he's not a Marine. Period.

Response by MSgt Rick Runion made Dec 9 at 2014 4:28 PM

2014-12-09T16:28:02-05:00

Ask him if you called up his Senior Drill Instructor and ask him would the SDI call him a Marine.
3 1/2 years as a DI I saw a lot of young men come to San Diego, Some made it and some didn't. There were some who made it through and earned the title but never made it to the fleet do to injuries that could not be fixed. They were assigned to the Basic Marine Platoon until they either healed and went on or they were medically discharged. One in particular I remember was in the BMP for 6 months and was medically discharged due to a stress fracture in his pelvis while doing the Crucible. The kid endured immense pain and refused to tell the DI's. He kept going until he collapsed. He didn't make it to the ceremony but He was awarded the Eagle Globe and Anchor at the hospital. Bottom line he accomplished enough for his Drill Instructors to call him a Marine. And yes it was only when our DI's who had trained us and molded us said it, we then could proudly call ourselves a U.S. Marine. And as a DI I was proud to give that title to those who had earned it. The training is tough for a reason, and it's not so we can sport our Blues and impress our friends. To be a Marine means that you have earned the privilege to fight in battle with a unique Brotherhood of Warriors. A Marine will lead you to the fight and will always have your back. Tell your friend that he can be proud that he tried, most won't even go that far, but respect those who made it and don't claim the title. He's welcome to give it another shot.

Response by LCpl Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 9 at 2014 5:08 PM

2014-12-09T17:08:11-05:00

what a fucking faggot.

Response by LCpl Chris Butterfield made Dec 9 at 2014 5:05 PM

2014-12-09T17:05:25-05:00

Hell no

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 9 at 2014 5:12 PM

2014-12-09T17:12:39-05:00

No. At no point during training was I called a marine until I walked across the parade deck at PI. if you didnt complete training. Then your not a marine.

Response by Cpl David Schaffer made Dec 9 at 2014 5:15 PM

2014-12-09T17:15:46-05:00

No way! He may have tried to become a Marine but he fell short of that title. In my opinion he is now a lifetime recruit! I had a mild fracture in my ankle that I received on a night hump before starting the Hollywood Crucible and I made sure to make it through. No finishing the Crucible means no earning the title of UNITED STATES MARINE!

Response by GySgt Lloyd LaGrange made Dec 9 at 2014 5:44 PM

2014-12-09T17:44:43-05:00

Even though HE was Medically Injured in Boot Camp and by CONTRACT an active service member, HE did NOT Formally under go THE ENTIRE Boot Camp Training Regime. He DID not EARN An EGA. THIS is the SAD but unfortunate truth. Although HE should be afforded some degree of respect as even being a RECRUIT, HE should not PROCLAIM that HE is a MARINE. That would not be fair & Respectful of THOSE of US THAT DID EARN our EGA. I have a Father-in-law that enlisted in the Marine Corps during Korea, but was MEDICALLY discharged for being a BED WETTER. He had his Picture taken in 1st phase, just AS all RECRUIT's do. But until YOU Pass The Crucible and that EGA is placed in your hand, SHOULD you be afforded the UTMOST respect as a UNITED STATES MARINE.
Just so WE are clear about this issue unlike any other Service Branch, as soon as you swear in The ARMY, You are A Solider , The Navy, A Sailor, The Air force, An Airman. In THE UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS, YOU are a POOLEE, then upon arriving at MCRD YOU are a RECRUIT. Like my Father-in-law, HE wanted to earn the title MARINE so bad he could taste it ,as I am sure is the case with the Young Man in question or ANYONE who beckon's a Marine Recruiter's office.

Response by Sgt Michael Coleman made Dec 9 at 2014 6:16 PM

2014-12-09T18:16:15-05:00

If you didn't complete basic training, you are NOT a Marine.

Response by LCpl Alan Marsa made Dec 9 at 2014 6:22 PM

2014-12-09T18:22:25-05:00

No way, you absolutely, most definitely HAVE to graduate Boot camp to claim the title.

Response by Sgt Jason Hill made Dec 9 at 2014 6:36 PM

2014-12-09T18:36:08-05:00

You may be a "vet", but you have to complete bootcamp to be a Marine.

Response by Cpl Jeff Schmidt made Dec 9 at 2014 6:40 PM

2014-12-09T18:40:01-05:00

Unless you take a step backwards, about face and give a hoo rah, as you were dismissed from your last formation..., you are just another dirt bag civilian.
WPNS Co. 2/7 (88-94)

Response by Cpl James Hatheway made Dec 9 at 2014 7:13 PM

2014-12-09T19:13:58-05:00

If I had a relative like that he would get a good THRASHIN.

Response by Sgt Eric Laliberty (Liberty) made Dec 9 at 2014 7:19 PM

2014-12-09T19:19:30-05:00

He should have finished... unless, it was life threating...and even then, he didn't finish...sorry, you need to earn it!

Response by LCpl Anthony Chavez made Dec 9 at 2014 7:31 PM

2014-12-09T19:31:58-05:00

Honestly, after the crucible you your EGA and then your a Marine, and not until then. You should correct his ass.

Response by LCpl Jose Valdez made Dec 9 at 2014 8:01 PM

2014-12-09T20:01:13-05:00

At minimum has to report to find unit

Response by LCpl Rob Bissell made Dec 9 at 2014 8:06 PM

2014-12-09T20:06:12-05:00

No no no and no

Response by SSgt Rosario Felice made Dec 9 at 2014 8:44 PM

2014-12-09T20:44:29-05:00

I don't see how this happened I think someone is trying to pull something every Marine earns there title ! If there doing this everyone behind it is discarding the Name! I don't believe it at all!

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 9 at 2014 8:52 PM

2014-12-09T20:52:21-05:00

Never earned the title, he is not a Marine or a veteran and should be man enough and have the integrity to admit that to anyone who asks. There are real Marines with injuries from combat and combat training who deserve the benefits and title who he should meet and maybe he would grow up and change his outlook on what he thinks he is and what he deserves. Veterans serve their country he didn't make it out of boot camp and into the service.

Semper Fi,
Sgt Jacobs

Response by Sgt Bobby Lewis made Dec 9 at 2014 8:59 PM

2014-12-09T20:59:38-05:00

I am on the fence with this one, but he signed the contract, started boot camp and obviously wanted to be a Marine. The Marines don't hand out med discharges like candy, so his injury must have been legit. I don't know that I would go around bragging about being a Marine if I were him, he didn't finish boot after all, but he can certainly be a proud supporter. He is definitely NOT a veteran however, but he does deserve to get benefits.

Response by SPC Donald Moore made Dec 9 at 2014 11:24 PM

2014-12-09T23:24:38-05:00

Even in the Army, you have to finish training before you can call yourself Infantry.
I would say that he is a poser.

Response by LCpl Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 9 at 2014 11:30 PM

2014-12-09T23:30:07-05:00

Well the 5 percent that say that they are Marines because they enlisted are not Marines them selves and wouldn't know because every Marine knows that you have not earned the title Marine until the very end

Response by PO1 Joey Willis made Dec 10 at 2014 12:16 AM

2014-12-10T00:16:59-05:00

I was an FMF Corpsman "Doc" to the leathernecks out there!! I was also "Marine Corps Regs" and was honored and entitled to wear the Eagle Globe and Anchor on my Alphas Bravos and Charlies, as well as, it is a part of my FMF warfare pin....but with the honor of wearing such a revered device came the responsibility of doing everything my Marines did. From training in the rain, sleeping in holes, and marching alongside them even when the corpsman could technically ride in the safety vehicle. I went to Corporal's and Sergeant's course...best leadership training ever and never thought of myself as something any more special than the grunt next to me. Did this guy give it his best...most likely...but unless you are a devil dog yourself you may not be the right one to inform him that he didn't earn it...if you are light him up!!! But he did try which is more than many do and still exercise their freedom of speech without any discomfort of forethought.....

v/r
HM1(FMF)
OIF 2-2

Response by Sgt J. Robert Perez made Dec 10 at 2014 12:28 AM

2014-12-10T00:28:38-05:00

We were called many, many names in boot camp but never "Marines." That name was reserved for graduation day (at T-91), and only then, once we'd earned the title Marine were we actually referred to as Marines.

I would say that the aforementioned individual was more of a "Washout" rather than a disabled veteran and definitely had not earned the title Marine!

Response by SSG Tim Everett made Dec 10 at 2014 1:00 AM

2014-12-10T01:00:07-05:00

I am not a Marine. My father is a retired Marine officer, my brothers and sisters are Marines. That is the extent of my association, besides a host of mentors and friends who are Marines.

In my humble non-Marine opinion, if you didn't earn your EGA, you are not a Marine. This person earned disability pay through injuries sustained in training. That doesn't make them a Marine.

To put an Army point on it, if I go to Ranger Assessment Program (or RIP/ROP as it used to be known) to earn my place in a Ranger battalion but I get injured, I am not a Ranger. The end.

Response by Cpl Blake Chapman made Dec 10 at 2014 1:07 AM

2014-12-10T01:07:13-05:00

You need to earn the title of a Marine and graduate boot camp to earn the title. Being strong in the body and in the mind is what makes a Marine a Marine. Not breaking something half way through boot and decide you do not want to continue bit have the title.

Response by Sgt James Mitchell made Dec 10 at 2014 1:12 AM

2014-12-10T01:12:58-05:00

How can you say you are a Marine and not get through Boot camp, When i joined i was told by my DI that you do not become a marine until you get you EGA eagle, globe, and anchor.

Response by SPC David S. made Dec 10 at 2014 1:17 AM

2014-12-10T01:17:16-05:00

I consider a vet to be someone that has not only completed basic but also their AIT. Got to draw the line in the sand somewhere.

Response by Cpl Arville Duff made Dec 10 at 2014 1:22 AM

2014-12-10T01:22:38-05:00

NO! If you don't finish MARINE CORPS BOOT, then you aren't a Marine

Response by Sgt D Smith made Dec 10 at 2014 1:52 AM

2014-12-10T01:52:23-05:00

You are a Marine when they pin your emblems on you. Anyone can enlist only those who pass boot camp can say they are Marines

Response by Cpl Matt Mcph made Dec 10 at 2014 2:21 AM

2014-12-10T02:21:37-05:00

No because to be a marine you earn your EGA (Eagle Globe and Anchor)
I didnt earn mine until graduation the recruits that didnt earn theirs and went home are not considered marines.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 10 at 2014 3:06 AM

2014-12-10T03:06:02-05:00

My Uncle is a Marine, and I would say, didnt complete the training, not a Marine. Disabled Vet, sure but not Marine.

Response by PV2 Charles Stewart made Dec 10 at 2014 4:25 AM

2014-12-10T04:25:10-05:00

The Marine Corps discharged him a medical discharge instead of just drumming him out, so he should be allowed to keep the title.

Response by 1SG Michael Blount made Dec 10 at 2014 6:01 AM

2014-12-10T06:01:28-05:00

Cpl Private RallyPoint Member - an individual such as the one you described is only slightly above the slime wearing uniforms that don't fit with medals they didn't earn telling stories that begin with "no shit, there I was..."

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 10 at 2014 7:34 AM

2014-12-10T07:34:47-05:00

simple answer in NO.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 10 at 2014 7:48 AM

2014-12-10T07:48:44-05:00

My girlfriend went to boot camp, was dropped for medical reasons. She understands that she didn't make it and that it's still honorable that she at least raised her right hand. You don't graduate, you ain't it killer.

Response by Sgt Alan Voracek made Dec 10 at 2014 8:10 AM

2014-12-10T08:10:45-05:00

He is not a Marine. If someone does not complete recruit training and or spend any time in the fleet should not be calling themselves a veteran or a Marine.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 10 at 2014 8:22 AM

2014-12-10T08:22:30-05:00

I am an independent motorcycle enthusiast with no affiliation or allegiance to any Riding Club or Motorcycle Club. My exposure to the motorcycle world is quite limited. My views and opinions are my own and in no way reflect that of my employer or any person (s).

Prior to retiring from the Army I met a member of a 1% Outlaw 3-Piece Patch Motorcycle Club (MC) who had me under the impression that he was a retired Marine GYSGT. Before being patched over his sponsor had one of their support MC's prospect him. He and a member of that support MC were patched over at about the same time.

He and the other member conduct themselves as if they are rock stars at ever venue. With his claim to fame of having been a Marine now a 1% Outlaw MC member along with the other member who never served in the military having been in a lowrider car club and support MC they both believe themselves to be somebody special.

One of the biggest unofficial support MC's to their MC is one of the many Marine Outlaw Veteran MC's who are more tight with them than any of their support MC's. Even of the many Marine MC's they have infighting amongst themselves which is why there are so many different factions of Marine MC's throughout the United States.

The point here is the number of so called Marines that actually did not do as they claim while in service and those who where actually put out bad. You meet these guys and some of them only ever went to Marine Corps Boot Camp or didn't make it while they have "USMC" and the EGA tattooed all over their body, on their Harley-Davidson motorcycles, vehicles and will adamantly proclaim that they are Marines and superior to all mankind with all other branches of our Armed Forces being inferior to their beloved Marine Corps which they fore sought in not serving with honor and distinction.

This is just one example of where a "Marine Veteran" is not a Marine in that this 1%er is not a rock star, but a groupie who talked a good game, acted like he was hard not shaking citizens hands while fist bumping them and hoodwinking the other member he patched in with that was a nobody himself into believing he was this big time successful Marine.

CAVEATE: I am not a Marine and never served in the Marine Corps. I am a United States Army Soldier who retired as a SFC in the SNCO ranks. These individuals need to stop falsely representing the Marine Corps just as if they were disgracing any other branch of military service in the same manner. We have a large number of Marines now serving in the Army for whatever their reason we proudly accepting them as our brethren. I kid you not as my final words will be that I have had Soldiers claim to have been Marines who come to find out hadn't even made it past phase-1 of Marine Corps Boot Camp!

Response by SPC Matthew Farnsworth made Dec 10 at 2014 8:37 AM

2014-12-10T08:37:16-05:00

I am not a Marine so this is only my .02. My sister joined the army shortly before I got out and every time she says something about it I tell her that she is not a vet. I may be a cold hearted asshole but in my opinion if you did not complete basic you should not even get a DD-214. Now if he was injured while training then he is entitled to disability and him having Marine Paraphernalia everywhere is all well and good. But going around saying yea I was a Marine is not cool.

Again my $.02

I failed to mention that my sister did not complete basic training.

Response by Pvt Dennis Flynn III made Dec 10 at 2014 9:26 AM

2014-12-10T09:26:18-05:00

This is almost exactly what happened

Response by Pvt Dennis Flynn III made Dec 10 at 2014 9:44 AM

2014-12-10T09:44:17-05:00

This is almost exactly what happened to me. I enlisted in May 2008 to become an 0313\0311 Marine. My father served 20 years in the US Army, 10th Mtn Division, had Airborne wings from the school at Benning, and served 2 tours in Afghanistan & one on Bosnia-Herzagovina., he then served in the NY Army National Guard while serving at home in Syracuse, NY as a Syracuse city police officer, detective & now Sergeant. My grandfather served 2 years in the US Army & 20 in the US Air Force. So I came from a military family through & through. I knew since childhood that I wanted to enlist in the Army like my Dad but it wasn't until I saw a recruiters pamphlet that came in the mail for my oldest brother Rich that showed a group of 5 guys in camo, face paint with rifle . At the ready, laying prone on a small rubber raft through a bunch of reeds in a river at night time. I asked my Dad what Army unit it was & he said they weren't Soldiers & that they were Marines. Instantly I knew that it was what I wanted to do. I was like 8 years old at the time & from that moment on I was obsessed with the USMC. I was so excited to finally arrive at Parris Island th

Response by Cpl Heather Heinzman made Dec 10 at 2014 9:55 AM

2014-12-10T09:55:14-05:00

There was a girl in my boot camp plt that made it all the way through the crucible and bitched out when they asked if you got hurt during it. She was on that island for 6 months more after that and got discharged. She likes to think she's one of us that's just not the case. She never hit the fleet and doesn't know/understand what it's like to be a Marine. At all.

Response by Maj Shawn Cape made Dec 10 at 2014 10:06 AM

2014-12-10T10:06:48-05:00

Although I respect that this individual made the jump and enlisted in the Corps, until he or she crossed the parade deck and received their EGAs they are not yet a Marine. I understand the gung-ho nature of the situation, but they haven't earned the title. But the line is blurred in many cases and this person isn't hurting anyone, valor is being stolen, and it shortens their military description; to say "I was a Marine" rather than "Well, I went to boot camp, blah blah blah, injured and blah blah blah, and here I am".
That's my two cents worth.

Response by 1stSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 10 at 2014 10:30 AM

2014-12-10T10:30:10-05:00

I've seen this way to many times. I personally don't believe they earned it. The Marine Corps though feels that if they took their oath and showed up, then it's not their fault they got hurt.

Response by Cpl Thomas Bryan made Dec 10 at 2014 10:30 AM

2014-12-10T10:30:59-05:00

You have to graduate from boot camp to be a Marine.

Response by Pvt Dennis Flynn III made Dec 10 at 2014 10:59 AM

2014-12-10T10:59:15-05:00

Crap, I accidentally hit the post button but to continue my story, I was b basically excited as fuck to start training. I knew everything I was in store for. I had spent the last 12 years of my life planning to become a Marine, with little to no thought as to what other career path I might enjoy because it was just out of the question for me to consider anything else. I did well up until the very end of phase I. Right before swim week we had our 3rd & final bout of pugil sticks. It was on that day of training that my life went to shit. During my fight I injured my wrist though I honestly don't even remember it happening or which part of the fight it happened cat. My adrenaline was just pumping so fast & I was just focused & zeroing in on the task at hand. Match ended, I lost & went back in formation with the rest of the platoon. We had to hold our canteens in our left hands with our arm bent at a 90 degree angle with the canteen resting on my palm, wrist & forearm. It was a few minutes later that I realized it was getting heavier & heavier, until it became so excruciating that I couldn't hold it in that arm at all. We had MCMAP training afterwards & I kept thinking, dude, just push through the pain & it will be chow time soon & I can think for a few seconds of what I should do. But then it got worse & worse until I finally had to speak to my Senior DI that I thought I had jacked up my wrist. A female corpsman came forward to check it out & confirm if it was a legit injury. Next thing I knew I was at Beaufort MemoriaHospital being x-rayed & dropped to MRP. Two weeks into MRP I am switched into PEB where I remained for the next 4 months. I had shattered the bones in my wrist & was honorably discharged and put on TDRL. I was completely shattered & deflated. I had no idea what I was going to do now. My lifelong dream was snatched away from me. I do not consider myself a Marine at all. I did not earn my EGA or finish the Crucible or walk across the parade deck. But I will say that I served in the United States Marine Corps, though I never earned the honour of being named a Marine. Our Drill Instructor overseers in the PEB platoon all claimed we got a raw deal. One of them, Sgt. Cheek, gave our PEB squad leader the EGA from his DI hat as a gesture of respect and a memento. I still hate to this day that I never made it. And often I stay quiet & hang my head in shame when asked if I am a veteran. But I did serve, however small it was...

Response by Cpl John Doe made Dec 10 at 2014 11:49 AM

2014-12-10T11:49:05-05:00

you don't earn the title "marine" till the ceremony, if you dont pass first phase you dont know the history, if you dont pass second phase you dont have the skills or discipline. so while he tried and thats good and well, he's not a marine.

Response by Sgt Michael Selbach made Dec 10 at 2014 12:12 PM

2014-12-10T12:12:40-05:00

Until you are presented your EGA and given the title then a Marine you are not.

Response by Cpl James Gray made Dec 10 at 2014 12:20 PM

2014-12-10T12:20:04-05:00

No u are not a Marine until you walk across the parade deck and receive the title US Marine.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 10 at 2014 12:17 PM

2014-12-10T12:17:13-05:00

He's a disabled servicemember, I don't believe he should call himself a Marine. That said, I don't see anything wrong with him being a fan and supporter of the USMC.

Response by Sgt Melinda Enfinger made Dec 10 at 2014 1:17 PM

2014-12-10T13:17:10-05:00

The title of United States Marine is earned, NEVER GIVEN. If a person doesn't march across that parade deck on graduation day, he or she did not make the cut and is not a Marine. He may be a MILITARY veteran, but certainly not a Marine.

Response by LCpl Thomas Wernig made Dec 10 at 2014 1:42 PM

2014-12-10T13:42:01-05:00

You have to be in 180 days to qualify, or at least graduate boot, AIT, staging battallion and get stationed somewhere on a base. Sorry if others feel different but those are my beliefs, I know some guys who deserted after boot and they think they're Marines, No Way, they are deserters period. " Semper Fi " to real Marines.

Response by PO1 Donald Hammond made Dec 10 at 2014 1:40 PM

2014-12-10T13:40:56-05:00

This feeds into a beef I have where I work. A guy came to us from A school as an E-2. Rapidly went to E-3. No problem. Then was promoted to E-4, then E-5. Then got out of the Navy. Never went to sea. I have a problem calling him a sailor.

Response by Sgt Mark Jones made Dec 10 at 2014 2:42 PM

2014-12-10T14:42:21-05:00

He earned the title... it's called recruit!

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 10 at 2014 4:11 PM

2014-12-10T16:11:03-05:00

I am in a rather similar place and for a while it kind of made me mad but I had to step back and think.
My Step Father was also enlisted into the Marines and also suffered an injury in Boot Camp and was subsequently medically retired. He is all about support all military services but does the same, flaunts his enrollment in the Marines.
After thinking about it I came to the conclusion that he did what most Americans wouldn't and that is enlist. He decided to do as most of us did and swore an oath to support and defend the united states. This alone earns my respect. No, he didn't finish training, however he attempted. A medical issue is a different beast.
If you look at this differently, Say you had a service member that did 12 years in the service and had 6 deployments and was wounded and ended up turning to drinking which lead to a dishonorable discharge. He did serve honorably for many years but couldn't face some of the things that happened and was discharged, not because he broke the law but because he couldn't stop drinking. Can you not consider that person a veteran because they might have a dishonorable discharge? They fought and sacrificed for so long....

Response by Sgt Mike Lochiatto made Dec 10 at 2014 4:42 PM

2014-12-10T16:42:35-05:00

There is no question here. I am guessing the 5% who said 'yes' in the poll are turdbirds of the same feather as the individual in question.

Response by PO2 Allan Winger made Dec 10 at 2014 4:49 PM

2014-12-10T16:49:59-05:00

He may be entitled to disabled veterans benefits, but he didn't even make it through basic training, let alone deploy overseas and learn what it is is to be a Marine and actually do what Marines do.

Response by Sgt Andrew Cruz made Dec 10 at 2014 4:56 PM

2014-12-10T16:56:36-05:00

He signed the dotted line and got broken during 1st phase. I don't think he'll have many war stories to tell about his entire 4 week experience so I'd say yes with quotation marks and an asterisk. "*Marine*"

If he's honest, up front and truthful I'd give him at least the benefit of the doubt because he did step up, unlike many others, and demonstrates a love for the Corps, unlike some current and past Marines.

"I joined the Marines, but I broke my ______ during 1st Phase and was sent home with a Medical ."

"Damn Dude, tough break."

But, if he's an obnoxious pain and representing as something he isn't, stand by to be outed and severely embarrassed...

"Hey POS, you couldn't even get through 1st Phase, you're weak."

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 10 at 2014 5:18 PM

2014-12-10T17:18:24-05:00

I understand He was injured in recruit training and i do believe he should receive benefits.......... But to claim you are Marine when you didnt go through the crucible didnt make that long ass hike didnt stand by the iwo jima memorial to get your EGA..... NO SIR you are not a Marine

Response by Sgt David Miller made Dec 10 at 2014 6:21 PM

2014-12-10T18:21:12-05:00

You have to earn it, if you didn't graduate, you are not a Marine. I applaud the effort, but if you didn't earn the EGA, you are not a Marine.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 10 at 2014 6:34 PM

2014-12-10T18:34:51-05:00

As a DoD employee, you might rate the benefits. But not the title.

Response by 1SG Nick Baker made Dec 10 at 2014 8:18 PM

2014-12-10T20:18:47-05:00

Only 6.8% of the American population are veterans. I will not question someone's status if they are receiving benefits. At least they raised there hand. Our veteran ranks are on a downward trend.

Response by Cpl Dustin White made Dec 10 at 2014 9:17 PM

2014-12-10T21:17:39-05:00

Had this happen to a recruit when i was in boot, although this was at the end of third phase. Drill instructors indicated that the recruit would be considered a fellow Marine even though he didn't get to complete training-because it was not his fault he no longer had the opportunity to complete training. I don't think first phase is close enough to earning the title. Not so sure how I'd feel about it if I were him though.

Response by SGT(P) Chris Maroni made Dec 10 at 2014 9:23 PM

2014-12-10T21:23:42-05:00

Until you are given your EGA you are a "recruit". You do not get the title of Marine until just prior to graduation. It is a bad deal that he was injured during training, and he tried to do what few attempt, but he did not get to the point of being called a Marine.

Response by CWO2 William Bowen made Dec 10 at 2014 9:28 PM

2014-12-10T21:28:23-05:00

Was taught that in boot camp I was I was a recruit! when we graduated boot camp we were told now you hold the title of Marine! So he got out before he earned the title Marine!

Response by Sgt Cindy Joa made Dec 10 at 2014 9:51 PM

2014-12-10T21:51:07-05:00

Idef would NOT consider them a Marine!

Response by LCpl James Fenton made Dec 10 at 2014 10:20 PM

2014-12-10T22:20:15-05:00

You have to make it out of boot camp to earn the title of US MARINE otherwise you are still a recruit.

Response by LCpl Dennis Pennington made Dec 10 at 2014 10:41 PM

2014-12-10T22:41:14-05:00

I went through boot camp in 79. There was a recruit who was attempting a third try at becoming a marine. He was 28 years of age, maybe 29, and his Senator made it possible for a third try. The two previous times he developed kidney problems and had to leave boot camp. During his third try he developed kidney problems again, but with the help of the platoon and drill instructors, he made it to graduation. I think he was immediately medically discharged but i will never forget his grit and determination to be a marine. He was an inspiration to everyone.

Response by Capt Mark Strobl made Dec 10 at 2014 10:50 PM

2014-12-10T22:50:47-05:00

We do not call those who dropped out of medical school, for whatever reason, "doctor." For those who didn't graduate from boot camp or OCS, (for whatever reason) we call you "civilian."

To relate this to civilian terms: If a guy was in training to be a certified mechanic. And during his training, he slips on a puddle of grease, falls, hits his head, and becomes blind. Subsequently, he is not able to complete his certification training. Later he gets a job as a teacher. Now, do we call this guy a "certified mechanic?" No. We call him a teacher who receives disability.

Response by LCpl Tyler Prince made Dec 10 at 2014 11:01 PM

2014-12-10T23:01:18-05:00

Simple question you can ask your friend.. Did he cry when his kill hat handed him his EGA or did he keep a dry eye? If you can't answer that then you aren't a Marine. Until you are handed that EGA you are nothing but a recruit.

Response by LCpl Darren Maguire made Dec 10 at 2014 11:20 PM

2014-12-10T23:20:48-05:00

Saying this person is a Marine is like saying a guy is an electrician when he was injured during OJT and received workman's comp. He'll receive benefits paid by Electrical Unions but will NOT be an electrician. Definitely not a Marine!

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 11 at 2014 2:25 AM

2014-12-11T02:25:55-05:00

He did not earned the title of being a Marine. So just like any other person who washes out of boot camp can claim that branch? I think not. You need to earn that title and not be a wash out.

Response by Sgt Chandler Walker made Dec 11 at 2014 7:27 AM

2014-12-11T07:27:06-05:00

The title of Marine is something you must earn and through all of boot camp you are told many times over that your not a Marine until you earn it.

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 11 at 2014 8:56 AM

2014-12-11T08:56:37-05:00

There is a possibility that he would have made it. But it's not a 100% and for that reason he should be clear. Regarding the USMC swag, good for him for supporting the cause. I bet you have some Jerseys and never played that sport professionally.

Response by SgtMaj James Kuiken made Dec 11 at 2014 9:28 AM

2014-12-11T09:28:11-05:00

No. He is not a Marine (did not graduate and earn the title - i.e., "Earned. Never given."), but by regulation, he is a "Veteran" by VA definition. Honorable mention for stepping up and volunteering...but that "honorable" mention can be lost quickly by false claims.

Response by Cpl Thomas Davenport made Dec 11 at 2014 9:57 AM

2014-12-11T09:57:10-05:00

If they were injured and discharged before earning the title . . .it just wasn't meant to be. Sorry. There is a clear path for the warrior that overcomes all obstacles. I was injured in boot camp AND SOI. Went on to 2 combat tours with 2/7 FOX in Iraq and Afghanistan. Overcame combat injury in Afghanistan to finish the deployment. That's what MARINES do. 0311

Response by Cpl Chistopher Brodbeck made Dec 11 at 2014 10:04 AM

2014-12-11T10:04:18-05:00

This guy is notch above a stolen valor phony. He wouldn't know anything about life as a Marine. Complete poser, trying to look hot shit.

Response by Cpl D Reil made Dec 11 at 2014 10:56 AM

2014-12-11T10:56:07-05:00

Just because you got your head shaved and ye;lled at a bit doesn't give the right to bare the name or title MARINE> barely gives the right to be a veteran. sorry. but it was earned blood sweat and gas chamber tears for sure...or snot...not to mention life for more than a 5 weeks- please- HE IS NOT A MARINE PERIOD. POSER. Especially when given the option and he chose to discharge? Didn't even posses the heart or drive to be a Marine. I could go on and on about the many reasons this individual is NOT a Marine.

Response by MGySgt Fred Culp made Dec 11 at 2014 10:58 AM

2014-12-11T10:58:49-05:00

Injury was due to no fault of his own..so as long as he was dedicated, and receiving benefits those he deserves the title. However, he should be humble.

Response by CWO2 Shelby DuBois made Dec 11 at 2014 11:33 AM

2014-12-11T11:33:16-05:00

Lots of posts and the jury says 'no go' to being a Marine unless you earn the title, plain and simple. The whole purpose of Boot Camp is to weed out those who can't make it... whether mentally or physically, and through no fault of your own or not.
Making the Warrant Officer ranks is tough enough, but you not only have to be selected, you have to pass the Warrant Officer Basic Course at Quantico... We had a gent fail the first physical fitness test on the three mile run... turned out he had a serious internal illness that had not been diagnosed prior. He returned to the enlisted ranks until he was medically discharged... He can call himself a Marine veteran, but cannot call himself a Warrant Officer since he never completed training. The world is full of goals unattainable.. Titles can be bought or earned... "Marine" is earned. period.

Response by 2LT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 11 at 2014 12:32 PM

2014-12-11T12:32:33-05:00

If you don't graduate college you don't get a degree, why should it be any different for boot camp?

Response by LCpl Jeff Jacobs made Dec 11 at 2014 1:12 PM

2014-12-11T13:12:54-05:00

You have to graduate to be called Marine. We all know this. It is not up for debate.

Response by Sgt Harlin Seritt made Dec 11 at 2014 2:29 PM

2014-12-11T14:29:18-05:00

Technically did not earn the title but not his fault. Unfortunate, but that's the way it is. Personally, I do not get into calling people out over technicalities though. If he wants to call himself a Marine, I'm not going to rebuke him for it. It's really none of my business. That's between him, God and Chesty Puller.

Response by Cpl Anthony Pearson made Dec 11 at 2014 3:14 PM

2014-12-11T15:14:53-05:00

Sadly, no. I give major kudos for signing the contract, showing up for the bus ride, standing on the yellow prints, and suffering through whatever he/she went through up until their time of injury. It was a valiant attempt, but fate was not on their side.

If you didn't complete boot camp, I do not feel you are a "MARINE".

I will say that if their injury occurred during the Crucible (last major obstacle before graduation), I would probably overlook this feeling more, but still - not really a "Marine".

Good question.

Response by LCpl Benjamin Wilson made Dec 11 at 2014 3:28 PM

2014-12-11T15:28:37-05:00

He to me is disabled discharged government personnel that did not complete his training. Which surprises me he gets any benefits. Yes it sucks he got injured and yes he got injured while in training which ended his time in the Corps, but he never received his Eagle, Globe and Anchor.

Response by Cpl Oscar Deleon made Dec 11 at 2014 3:46 PM

2014-12-11T15:46:35-05:00

If the guy got hurt during basic he deserves the benefits but he shouldn't be called a Marine .

Response by Sgt Sequoia White made Dec 11 at 2014 4:47 PM

2014-12-11T16:47:30-05:00

As a Marine I had to earn Mt title. Until you are handed your EGA and called a Marine by the Drill Instructor that trained you, or the old school way by graduating Marine Corps Basic Training. YOU ARE NOT A MARINE.

Response by 1stSgt Ron Gallegos made Dec 11 at 2014 4:45 PM

2014-12-11T16:45:25-05:00

When a Boot Graduates the Drill Instructor announces "Now you are a Marine and nobody can ever take that away, You are part of a Brotherhood forever" this is not for someone who does not make it out of Basic Training. Comparing Earning a Purple Heart with out being Wounded??????

Response by Cpl David Han made Dec 11 at 2014 5:21 PM

2014-12-11T17:21:15-05:00

I believe it was called MRP. Either way I know lots who stayed in. One joined our platoon after being in MRP for a month. He stayed and earned that title.

Response by SSG Robert Eshbaugh made Dec 11 at 2014 5:25 PM

2014-12-11T17:25:52-05:00

Just another failure wanting a handout or a discount card.sad.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 11 at 2014 5:53 PM

2014-12-11T17:53:01-05:00

I am sorry, but if you didn't even finish basic training then you are not a veteran. You were injured and are entitled to be treated for the injuries, but nothing more.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 11 at 2014 6:36 PM

2014-12-11T18:36:31-05:00

He should not call himself a Marine if he did not earn it. 'Former Marine Recruit' is a more fitting title for this guy.

Response by Sgt Brandon Palmer made Dec 11 at 2014 6:36 PM

2014-12-11T18:36:47-05:00

To me he's getting workman's comp. The title of Marine isn't given until the Crucible is finished.

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 11 at 2014 7:46 PM

2014-12-11T19:46:41-05:00

No. Plain and simple, did not become a Marine. It's like saying I did some a class on how to treat an injury now I'm a surgeon?

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 11 at 2014 8:10 PM

2014-12-11T20:10:44-05:00

Unless the Eagle Globe and Anchor ceremony is conducted by authorized personnel from the depot, it isn't official. This is why there are some cases who are allowed to come back 6 months to a year after incident after being medically cleared to try again.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 11 at 2014 8:14 PM

2014-12-11T20:14:07-05:00

I do not feel that, as an Army/Air Force Enlisted/NCO and current Army Reserve Officer, I have sufficient credentials to give an opinion. However, if someone is unable to move beyond initial indoctrination to an organization, they do not seem to have sufficient substance to subscribe to the basic tenants and, therefore, are ineligible the noble title given to those who pushed through to achieve it. They will receive monetary recompense for their disability in line with the regulations, but not the title.

Response by Cpl Cody Brooks made Dec 11 at 2014 9:17 PM

2014-12-11T21:17:48-05:00

No, no, no, a thousand times NOOOOOO! You are not a marine until you earn that title...and that title is not bestowed on you until you are presented your E.G.A. at the ceremony in which you have completed all requirements to earn said title. If you are a marine just because you did time in boot camp then any idiot could enlist, fail out, but still go on into service-at which point boot camp would be unnecessary. So NO-that guy is not a marine!

Response by LCpl Jacob Kichline made Dec 11 at 2014 9:33 PM

2014-12-11T21:33:49-05:00

no, I wouldn't even consider him to be a vet, he hasn't been anywhere other than basic.

Response by Cpl Nick Cada made Dec 11 at 2014 10:13 PM

2014-12-11T22:13:27-05:00

That person is a poser mooching of benefits he doesn't deserve.

Response by Sgt Johazais Wyble made Dec 12 at 2014 8:07 AM

2014-12-12T08:07:28-05:00

They may receive disability benefits from the VA since "Recruit" is a rank, but they are not a Marine.

Response by Sgt Chris Harman made Dec 12 at 2014 8:47 AM

2014-12-12T08:47:11-05:00

No... He is not a Marine. I myself, have a friend with a similar story, here is the difference. My friend refuses to collect disability benefits, and refers to himself as a former recruit.

Response by Sgt Sabrina Williams made Dec 12 at 2014 10:33 AM

2014-12-12T10:33:11-05:00

No, I don't see this person being a Marine. They didn't earn the eagle, globe, and anchor. I can say I went to college but I can't say I have a degree until I have actually done the required work and graduated. Just because they completed part of basic training doesn't make them a Marine. Only when you have completed the requirements and is pinned with the eagle, globe, and anchor then are you a Marine. I get upset with the Navy because now they are authorized to wear the eagle, globe, and anchor just because they serve with us. To me that doesn't make them no more a Marine than me carrying a band aid makes me a corpsman.

Response by PFC Gene Shott made Dec 12 at 2014 11:15 AM

2014-12-12T11:15:51-05:00

I think you should have to finish basic the whole 13 weeks then you have earned the title that is how I see it.

Response by Cpl John Davis made Dec 12 at 2014 12:03 PM

2014-12-12T12:03:35-05:00

No while it is honorable what he did it is not right to claim to be a Marine. He did nit graduate boot camp.

Response by Cpl Paul D. Schmidt made Dec 12 at 2014 12:17 PM

2014-12-12T12:17:36-05:00

I have no problem with recruits drawing benefits for being medically discharged during Boot Camp. But one has to earn the title of Marine.

Response by Cpl James Simpson made Dec 12 at 2014 12:25 PM

2014-12-12T12:25:36-05:00

I wasn't going to comment, but I have to say:
I've read a great number of the comments here and I'm filled with pride to see that you all (even those of you not in the Marine Corps) have a similar opinion!
I too, stand by the notion that you can never be considered a marine until you earn the eagle, globe, and anchor (EGA). THERE ARE NO EXCEPTIONS to that simple rule.
I have a story that is similar to some of yours. While in bootcamp, I suffered a hernia and damage to my achilles tendons (in both of my feet). I didn't go to sick bay. I didn't go to the hospital. I decided the only way I was leaving that island was by finishing.
My tendons never got better. To this day they stiffen up and hurt when I stand for an hour or so.
As for the hernia, I didn't even see the doc about that until years later (when I came back from deployment).
And you may not agree with me, but in my opinion: THAT is the spirit of the Marine Corps. Marines never say retreat, we never give up, and if our mission requires our last breath, we give it! For the sake of our brothers; past, present, and future. Marines give 110% in all that we do! That is what makes us different. That's what makes us the few. And that's what makes us proud!
I can appreciate that this person stood on the yellow footprints and that he tried to become a Marine, but trying and succeeding is (by definition) the difference between a recruit and a Marine!
I apologize for the long winded comment, but I always get angry when people make incorrect claims about being Marines.
Thank you to all who have served in any service! And to my brothers: Semper Fi!

Response by LCpl Richard Peifer made Dec 12 at 2014 3:07 PM

2014-12-12T15:07:29-05:00

I would be okay with this person calling himself what he really is... a person who tried. I have been told and truly believe in the difference between a service member and a veteran. I completed boot camp and served in Iraq. I served a faithful one enlistment and was honorably discharged. Its not my completion of boot camp that makes me a veteran not my honorable discharge but my service in a foreign war. Otherwise I'd be a service member or former service member. Just my opinion though.

Response by 1SG Frank Boynton made Dec 12 at 2014 4:58 PM

2014-12-12T16:58:15-05:00

Actually, no they are not Marines because they didn't complete their training. I know in the Army we call them Soldiers from the day they get to reception center, but if they fail to make it through training - for whatever reason - they are not soldiers. And in basic, they receive a TDP discharge (Trainee Discharge Program). It's under honorable conditions, but it's not the same as an Honorable Discharge. To be a Soldier, Sailor, Marine or Airmen, you must successfully complete your initial training. Many soldiers are released in basic because they can not mentally or physically adapt to the military. They are not Soldiers.

Response by Cpl John Davis made Dec 12 at 2014 9:33 PM

2014-12-12T21:33:15-05:00

Again I say no. He is not a Marine he did not earn the title. I served for 3 years and received a medical discharge. I was a Cpl when I got out. Sorry I could not have served more. I am proud to be a USMC veteran and proudly wear the USMC EGA and colors, but one thing you will never see on me and that is anything that says "USMC Retired" I did not earn that distinction thus I will not wear it.

Response by Sgt Gene Showalter made Dec 12 at 2014 11:05 PM

2014-12-12T23:05:21-05:00

As one of the few Marines who was medically discharged during boot camp for a bad diagnosis, and then later returned and became a Sergeant in the most deploying unit in the world, on the literal sense. I have a DD214 stating I was a "Basic Marine" from the flu diagnosed as death, as well as a DD214 Stating I was a Sergeant of Marines in Supply.

Response by LCpl Gene Foreman made Dec 12 at 2014 11:08 PM

2014-12-12T23:08:09-05:00

No Sir, he was not able to finish and graduate.

Response by LCpl Anthony Greer made Dec 12 at 2014 11:35 PM

2014-12-12T23:35:15-05:00

Hell no, if you couldn't make it off the yellow foot prints to the chow hall you don't even deserve bragging rights. If you did not make it through boot camp, your still a civilian and are not entitled to our benefits that we fought for.

Response by Maj Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 13 at 2014 4:15 AM

2014-12-13T04:15:39-05:00

Tough question. What if he made it through most of boot camp? Boot camp but not SOI? No easy answer. I would say that as long as it was a real injury through no fault of his own, and he is medically retired, then in a way he has earned it.

Not to say that I wouldn't jab him every now and then, and help tone down the moto display!

Response by Sgt Justin Smith made Dec 13 at 2014 6:28 AM

2014-12-13T06:28:20-05:00

I had been out for fifteen years and took over an assistant parts manager position at Karl Malone Toyota on a friends request who was the manager. His current asst. was joining the Marines on a moments notice decision with a friend. He finished two weeks and didn't even try to rehab his knee. He came back after a month and a half and talked himself up as being a Marine all the time and had many people at the dealer ship calling him a Marine. One day this puke was telling Karl about how hard he trained and firing the rifle and several other events he never came close to even seeing I finally had to walk over and call BS. I asked him, Now how long were you in before you hurt your knee?" He responded nervously (as he knew I was a Marine with Eight years of active duty and Gulf War veteran) "Um...well it started hurting around two weeks but I stayed with the platoon for another two weeks." I looked at him and called him on it. "You told everyone in here you were in the med platoon at two weeks, and even if you had made it to four, you would have never even seen the rifle range. Your just trying to be cool for Karl. You were never a Marine you were a recruit and never earned the EGA period." Karl was startled and asked me, Why are you being so harsh to Phil?" I told him, "Because I am a Marine and served Eight years and I am a Gulf War veteran. I had a severe knee injury in boot camp but sucked it up and stayed with my platoon never accepting light duty even when the DI's told me to. You have to finish boot camp and graduate to be a Marine!" I walked away in disgust and later Karl came up to me and shook my hand and thanked me for my service and said "I have never seen anything like that but understand how you feel. You earned the right to call yourself a Marine." Oh and by the way the kid was a runner and was running 5 miles a day after one week of being back. I reported him to the VA and let it go from there. He never called himself a Marine around me again but I heard him talk about it to others when he thought I wasn't around. Obviously my take is definitely not a Marine obviously. I also don't think he deserved the disabled status as he was just fine when he got home. Oh, and yes he has all kinds of paraphanelia and has it all over his new office where he was transferred too as he was the General Managers Nephew.

Response by LCpl Joe McKenna made Dec 13 at 2014 11:24 AM

2014-12-13T11:24:47-05:00

Through all 3 phases of training there is one thing I was never called and that's a Marine I was called everything else but and I will never forget the first time I was called a Marine it was the night before graduation we were all in the rack and our senior came out and said listen up Marines I ll never forget that moment as long as I live

Response by LT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 13 at 2014 12:49 PM

2014-12-13T12:49:07-05:00

To become a service member regardless of the branch, one must first actually complete boot camp. You can't claim you're part of something so big, when you didn't even make it through the first phase.

Response by Cpl Patrick Burman made Dec 13 at 2014 2:41 PM

2014-12-13T14:41:52-05:00

I have respect for his trying, and sympathy for his being broken in doing so. However he's not a Marine. I graduated Bootcamp with a dude who could not see after a flare went off in his face in the night course. They offered him an out, or recycle, and he just kept up with us, walking behind the platoon holding the last recruit's shirt so he didn't get lost.

Response by LCpl Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 13 at 2014 4:49 PM

2014-12-13T16:49:59-05:00

Definitely not, until you get handed your EGA at PI or at Edson Range aboard Camp Pendleton, you aren't a Marine. Props to this guy for going to boot, and it sucks that he got injured and medically discharged, but you gotta get through boot to be part of the club.

Response by Sgt Christy Giles made Dec 13 at 2014 4:54 PM

2014-12-13T16:54:56-05:00

Until they pin the Eagle, Globe, and Anchor on you, you are nothing more than a Recruit! Not a Marine...sorry!

Response by LCpl Daniel Brewer made Dec 13 at 2014 6:57 PM

2014-12-13T18:57:07-05:00

The title of United States Marine is one not taken lightly by the few that have earned it, if you did not graduate then the title is not yours to claim (sucks about the inability to finish boot camp but many more have attempted than have made it and this is just the nature of the beast )

Response by Sgt Adam Jennings made Dec 13 at 2014 8:59 PM

2014-12-13T20:59:28-05:00

Absolutely not!!! I have my EGA that I earned and it is framed right next to my grad pic and a WWII EGA that was given to me as a gift. If you didn't earn the title, regardless of the reason, then you simply aren't a Marine. Same goes for Ranger training, BUD/S, Recon, Scout Sniper School, etc.

Response by Cpl Brendan Bownes made Dec 13 at 2014 9:42 PM

2014-12-13T21:42:56-05:00

If you don't finish, you ain't a Marine, you're just a disabled recruit.

Response by Cpl Joseph Grier made Dec 14 at 2014 4:23 AM

2014-12-14T04:23:08-05:00

I work for the Wounded Warrior Regiment and I have to call these people who claim the title but never finished boot camp. I finished, and I earned it, and I have a hard time dealing with the fact that some of these fools a posers and lie about having PTSD from damn bootcamp, fucking p$&&y.... Some of these people play the system and make it harder for real Marine Vets to get the help we need

Response by Pvt Nick Frontuto made Dec 14 at 2014 9:17 AM

2014-12-14T09:17:57-05:00

No you have to finish boot to become a Marine.

Response by Cpl Joshua Sochanek made Dec 14 at 2014 10:19 AM

2014-12-14T10:19:50-05:00

Fuck no.
First of all, this individual absolutely did not earn the title of Marine by not finishing boot camp. Then while boot camp gives you the title, you are not even close to being a true Marine until after you get through your MOS school and get to the fleet.
If you didn't finish boot camp, do not call yourself a Marine.

Response by Cpl Dave Ulmer made Dec 14 at 2014 11:33 AM

2014-12-14T11:33:32-05:00

I thought some more about this (as it keeps popping up on facebook) and I want to add alittle more to this. A lot of Marines have talked about graduating from boot camp (or the crucible). I think there is a lot more to being a Marine than 13 weeks. Yes, graduation from boot camp or OCS is a criteria (which this guy did not meet) but Simple graduation is not enough for me to consider anyone else a Marine. A person with a BCD o a DD is not a Marine to me (With a few exceptions).

Response by Cpl Tammy Rangel made Dec 14 at 2014 12:46 PM

2014-12-14T12:46:33-05:00

No, I would not consider this person a Marine. First phase we are still being led around like children; your also still learning how to walk, talk like a Marine, speak the jargon, and getting all your gear. You haven't done anything yet because they are still testing you. There are are LCpl's, Cpl's, Sgt's, and on, and on, who can't get benefits who deserve it. This individual didn't even finish first phase and didn't graduate boot camp to even earn the title, so no I would not consider this person a Marine.

Response by LCpl Mario Chavarry made Dec 14 at 2014 2:07 PM

2014-12-14T14:07:07-05:00

I wouldn't even consider that person to be a Marine until they hit the fleet, regardless of getting some eagle globe and anchor in bootcamp. But that's just the salt dog in me.

Response by A1C Hillary Matchen made Dec 14 at 2014 4:15 PM

2014-12-14T16:15:31-05:00

They are not a marine until they finish boot camp and then MOS school. Until then they are a "candidate for the marine core", just like every other branch.

Response by SPC John Decker made Dec 14 at 2014 4:35 PM

2014-12-14T16:35:28-05:00

While the circumstances allow the individual to collect benefits, which I have no problem with as the injury/illness was incurred while attempting to serve our country, the title was not earned.

Response by PO3 Paul Stai made Dec 14 at 2014 4:50 PM

2014-12-14T16:50:44-05:00

You have to graduate to become anything

Response by PO3 Paul Stai made Dec 14 at 2014 4:50 PM

2014-12-14T16:50:31-05:00

I know of a guy in the Naval Reserve that claims to be a sailor and I'd to kick his ass for a number of reasons but he smokes "spice" and that to me means he's not a valid member of any unit I'd want to serve with.

Response by Sgt Dan Raymond made Dec 14 at 2014 7:06 PM

2014-12-14T19:06:44-05:00

I believe, By VA standards, an individual must serve at least 180 days active duty to receive medical benefits. If you can, look at his DD214, member copy bottom right corner for RE CODE. That's a start. If an individual does not graduate Marine Corps Boot Camp, the name Marine is not earned. I knew 1 individual who came over from the Army who claimed he didn't go through boot camp due to the needs of the Corps at the time for his expertise. Never verified that though. Semper Fi!

Response by SSG Peter Muse made Dec 14 at 2014 7:18 PM

2014-12-14T19:18:26-05:00

Have to agree with some of the great comments. If you didn't graduate, you don't get the title. My Army hat off to the life long affiliation Marines have with the Corps
.

Response by LCpl Mark Lefler made Dec 14 at 2014 7:46 PM

2014-12-14T19:46:19-05:00

for me unless a person completes basic, they are not a marine, some might even say they need to enter the FMF.

Response by Sgt Hugh Casey made Dec 14 at 2014 8:04 PM

2014-12-14T20:04:11-05:00

Do the Time....Do the Service for the Corps. Boot Camp doesn't count. Real USMC can do boot camp standing on their head, especially now. This is why the VA is under 'fire.' Served my country in combat, time served in 'Hell's Kitchen' and earned the right to make the above statement. Semper Fi....to those that Served...

Response by SSgt Christophe Murphy made Dec 14 at 2014 8:52 PM

2014-12-14T20:52:30-05:00

Sadly in the eyes of the government he is a disabled veteran from the ranks of the Marine Corps. Yes he did not earn the title and he did not serve as a Marine but on paper he is a Marine vet. Because of that he rates all kinds of benefits from the VA. The real question is what rating did he receive because if it is 30% or higher he rates a medical retirement which is a horrible thought.

Response by Sgt William Cole made Dec 14 at 2014 9:06 PM

2014-12-14T21:06:05-05:00

First off in any military boot camp or basic training and you get hurt period, and hurt enough to medical sep, they have to take care of it and if you at bad enough to get a rating for the disability then they discharge you send you to the VA for your payment for the injury and your medical for follow ups or any other things needed for that injury. But if you didn't complete full boot camp of 13weeks and get your EGA and earn that title, than fuck no your not a Marine, you tried but you failed son plain and simple.

Response by SGT Michael Glenn made Dec 14 at 2014 10:24 PM

2014-12-14T22:24:34-05:00

If I read this correctly he did NOT complete his entry level training and therefore would not be able to claim being a Marine.

Response by MSG Karl Arrington made Dec 14 at 2014 10:35 PM

2014-12-14T22:35:54-05:00

I respect you for having the gumption to try, but I cannot put you in the same group as those that made it all the way through.

Response by SSgt Robert Clark made Dec 14 at 2014 11:30 PM

2014-12-14T23:30:02-05:00

Being that I am not a Marine my 2 cents may not matter, but I would have to say no.
Just because you have a piece of paper that says you earned some veterans benefits based on medical reasons if you did not earn the Eagle Globe and Shield then you are not a Marine. That's the very heart and soul of being called a Marine. All the other branches earn a ticket to wherever their tech school is once they complete basic.
It's no different than someone being medically disqualified from special forces training and then claiming they are just because they were in the school. You didn't make it to the end and earn the title then you aint, it's just that simple.

Response by SFC Howard Kempf made Dec 15 at 2014 9:04 AM

2014-12-15T09:04:16-05:00

Need one more category - Enlisted as a Marine, Served for years as a Marine ETS'd. Joined Guard because Marine Reserve to far away.

Response by SFC Mark Hoover made Dec 15 at 2014 10:50 AM

2014-12-15T10:50:06-05:00

But at least he tried where others did not

Response by SGT Andrew Hurst made Dec 15 at 2014 11:15 AM

2014-12-15T11:15:35-05:00

Coming from the Army, I would say absolutely not. I've got a lot of marine buddies and they take that stuff a lot more seriously than we even do. It's like showing up to jump school, not making it and saying you are a paratrooper. You didn't earn your wings. Same goes for any other training.

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 15 at 2014 11:37 AM

2014-12-15T11:37:19-05:00

Unless the CG stands in front of your series and says, "Men, it is my honor to be the first to call you United States Marines," then you are not a Marine. At least, that's how they did it at PI back in 81. Not sure how they do it at Quantico. I am an Army Chaplain now, and I have some Navy Chaplain friends who have served with Marines. They call themselves Marines, but unless they've earned the title, they are just squids.

Response by Cpl Steve Williams made Dec 15 at 2014 2:41 PM

2014-12-15T14:41:50-05:00

Unless you march in that final graduation ceremony, you didn't finish and didn't earn the title Marine.

Response by Cpl Mike Sherriff made Dec 15 at 2014 2:59 PM

2014-12-15T14:59:32-05:00

Nope, not a Marine.

Response by Cpl Peter Martuneac made Dec 15 at 2014 4:48 PM

2014-12-15T16:48:41-05:00

Your in-law needs to fix himself. You're not a Marine until the Eagle, Globe, and Anchor has been pressed into to your filthy palm by your Drill Instructor, and that's (in the words of Stone Cold Steve Austin) the bottom line.

Response by PO1 Michael Fullmer made Dec 15 at 2014 5:49 PM

2014-12-15T17:49:13-05:00

As far as I am concerned...and I was not a Marine...the only ones who can be a Marine without actually being one is possibly an HM-8404 FMF corpsman who served with a Marine unit.

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 15 at 2014 6:37 PM

2014-12-15T18:37:08-05:00

Nope...didnt COMPLETE basic training and EARNED the Eagle, globe and anchor...no..he is not a Marine but simply a former MARINE CORPS RECRUIT!

Response by Cpl Joshua Hollers made Dec 15 at 2014 7:00 PM

2014-12-15T19:00:13-05:00

The term "veteran" is given to someone after 2 yrs service. Certainly after 1 month's service there shouldn't be an issue...

Response by LTC Richard Wasserman made Dec 15 at 2014 10:11 PM

2014-12-15T22:11:00-05:00

But he is a disabled Vet.

Response by Cpl Jay Shaw made Dec 18 at 2014 2:51 AM

2014-12-18T02:51:55-05:00

Unfortunately no, they're not a Marine. Valiant try, but didn't complete all of the initial training

Response by PO3 William Canet III made Dec 19 at 2014 12:17 AM

2014-12-19T00:17:41-05:00

If you didn't finish boot then you are not a marine. However, I was a doc...does that count as being a marine? I earned the right to wear the eagle globe and anchor.

Response by SPC John Cummings made Dec 20 at 2014 8:03 PM

2014-12-20T20:03:47-05:00

Interesting... What I wonder is if his injury was permanent and sustained in the act of service to the Corps, would you feel the same way? Just a what if, say: Trainee shot stepping in the line of fire from disgruntle peer...etc PS I'm not a Marine but still care and hold the Few in high esteem.

Response by Cpl Krys Hendrix made Dec 21 at 2014 12:23 AM

2014-12-21T00:23:35-05:00

If he didn't complete training and receive an EGA he doesn't rate. End of file.

Response by MSgt Rob Weston made Jan 5 at 2015 8:30 PM

2015-01-05T20:30:29-05:00

I am not a marine, however the total of veteran should be held exclusively to those who have completed basic training. If a person is dropped from a police academy or fire fighter academy due to an injury does not result in them being called a firefighter or cop. Same in the military. At the very best I would call them a disabled recruit.

Response by Cpl Terry Hutchinson made Jan 7 at 2015 7:45 AM

2015-01-07T07:45:05-05:00

Tradition holds. He did not finish boot camp, therefore, did not claim the title, "MARINE".

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 23 at 2015 4:44 PM

2015-01-23T16:44:31-05:00

Didn't complete boot camp means you are not a Marine

Response by SSgt Jay Dee made Jan 30 at 2015 11:41 PM

2015-01-30T23:41:34-05:00

I was not only a Drill Instructor, but I also worked in the section that processes recruits off of the depot briefly. I promise you, he is not and was not a Marine. The fact that he collects money has nothing to do with the training and the fact that he did not complete it. This is simply a case of a young man who is having a hard time accepting the fact that he did not get to fully live out his dream and is holding onto what he can. If he is claiming to be a Marine, he is wrong. I'm curious to know what the injury is though. Because it's extremes rare that a recruit gets any type of benefit once dropped.

Response by GySgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 25 at 2015 10:41 AM

2015-02-25T10:41:48-05:00

I saw a response below that said up until we were given the title, we were called privates. I don't remember being called "Private." I remember recruit, maggot, scumbag, among other titles. LOL

No, this person is not a Marine, never was. He went to boot camp and got injured as a result of boot camp, hence the disability pay -- the government is paying for the injury, not for perceived "service." It's coincidental that it happened at Marine Corps recruit training.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 4 at 2015 11:59 AM

2015-03-04T11:59:39-05:00

In Navy boot camp you are a "recruit" until you graduate and become a Sailor. The symbolic removing of the recruit cover to replace with the U.S. Navy cover is the best example. You have not earned the right to wear the Navy cover until you have proved your merit. I would say that regardless of branch if you did not complete basic then you cannot call yourself the equivalent.

Response by PO3 Amanda Crippes (Powell) made Mar 4 at 2015 12:43 PM

2015-03-04T12:43:39-05:00

Very good question. I was in the Navy but I was stationed with the Marines my entire enlistment and even wore the Marine cammo, however I did not have Marine anywhere on my uniform and the only EGAs were the ones on the boots and the ones in the actual MARPAT. I never even pretend to be a Marine even though I filled a Cpl. billet. I know how much Marines pride themselves on finishing boot camp and being called a Marine for the first time. I show tons of Marine pride and have Marine stuff in my house, and I feel that he really wanted to be one and that's great and he should still be proud he tried, but he did not earn the title (whether or not it was of his own fault).

Response by PO3 Amanda Crippes (Powell) made Mar 5 at 2015 2:28 AM

2015-03-05T02:28:04-05:00

A little off topic, but my Marine family must have done a great job brainwashing me if my OCD is pinging like crazy with all the responses with lowercase "marine" in them. I know its not intentional, just wanted to mention this random tipbit that I've never really noticed in myself until now.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 5 at 2015 4:49 PM

2015-03-05T16:49:37-05:00

This is a very circumstantial question, in this case the individual did not complete basic so it is an opinionative question on if they even earned the title “Marine”. I think this really boils down to the extent of the injury and what caused it. You said they were given a choice to stay in or get out and receive medical discharge. I can only speak for myself and this is only a “personal opinion” however, I came in to the military after an injury that normally would have made me have to wait 6 months to go in, I have had multiple injuries to which I keep driving on. Again that is me personally, but in my personal opinion I find that if you take the easy way out you really didn’t have the drive and want to be in so as a personal opinion if they were given a choice and medical said they were okay to stay in if they wanted to than in my opinion they are NOT a marine, the same would go for any other branch on soldiers, sailors, and airmen. I personally would want someone by my side in a firefight that WANTS to be in the military and takes pride in it not someone looking to get out and get some money. Again this is subjective as I do not know the specifics of the situation and will not make an actual comment to them deserving the title or not due to not knowing all details in this situation but only fragmental pieces of information.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 5 at 2015 4:55 PM

2015-03-05T16:55:34-05:00

I believe he should not be getting VA benefits because you are not considered veteran if you have not completed your initial training.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 5 at 2015 9:34 PM

2015-03-05T21:34:11-05:00

Would someone be considered a doctor if they dropped out of medical school?

Response by SPC Chelsea Fernandez made Mar 11 at 2015 1:05 AM

2015-03-11T01:05:23-04:00

Once a Marine always a Marine

Response by MSgt Jim Pollock made Mar 11 at 2015 1:52 AM

2015-03-11T01:52:17-04:00

Here's a hypothetical twist to the scenario:

Lets say a Marine recruit is deep into training and is on track to graduate. Then through some unfortunate accident, say during the crucible, he is tragically killed. Assume this is not through any kind of negligence on his part.

Would the Corps consider granting him the title posthumously? Is that even possible (never given, always earned)? What say you, Marines?

Response by SSG Harper Peterson made Mar 11 at 2015 7:38 PM

2015-03-11T19:38:02-04:00

1) In order to be considered a Marine, one must graduate Marine Corps Boot Camp. If you don't finish, regardless of the reason, you are NOT a Marine!

2) If you are "medical discharged" from MCRD (Marine Corps Recruit Depot) you can get disability benefits from the VA but are not considered a Marine!

3) Anyone can wear all the clothing, get Marine Corps tattoos, and what have you but it doesn't make them a Marine.

Being a "groupie" doesn't make you part of the Band!

Response by Cpl Chris Mcqureerir made Mar 18 at 2015 4:12 PM

2015-03-18T16:12:23-04:00

No EGA, No Title. Plain and simple.

Response by COL Charles Williams made Mar 25 at 2015 11:39 PM

2015-03-25T23:39:08-04:00

I am not a Marine, and none of your answers really suit my thinking. They enlisted, got the boot... so, I think the answer is clear. Unless they complete Boot Camp... they are not a Marine; the reason doesn't really matter. A Soldier, which a bigger deal to me, is not a Soldier unless they complete Basic Combat Training.

Response by Cpl Tou Lee Yang made Mar 26 at 2015 1:30 AM

2015-03-26T01:30:17-04:00

Sorry, unless you put on the EGA, you were never a Marine. I specifically remember when my Eagle, Globe, and Anchor was presented to me so I can placed them on my Service Alpha. That was the day I transition from a recruit, to a Marine and I was addressed as such.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 31 at 2015 1:25 PM

2015-03-31T13:25:45-04:00

Well he is not. The special examples I will use can also apply to Marines. If a Service Member (SM) attends Ranger School, he is not a Ranger if he just got injured. If a SM attends Airborne School but is injured if that SM does not complete the final jump. If he is going through selection to a special operations unit but is injured.. he is not Special Operations. Thems the breaks. (The above are titles that can be applied to very select Marines). One of my RIs in Ranger School was a Force Recon Airborne Ranger Marine.

He may have the title Honorary or former candidate but not actual. That is why some people limp to the finish line. I hide and nursed an injury through Ranger and Airborne School.

Response by SSgt Joe V. made Mar 31 at 2015 1:28 PM

2015-03-31T13:28:08-04:00

No...'nuff said

Response by SGT Bryon Sergent made Mar 31 at 2015 2:32 PM

2015-03-31T14:32:43-04:00

I was always told by my Marine friends that once a Marine always a Marine. So there fore if you did not earn the Eagle, Globe and Anchor How could you be a Marine Veteran?

Response by LCpl Ed Mcgonigal made Apr 11 at 2015 3:51 PM

2015-04-11T15:51:40-04:00

medical discharge while in boot camp and 1st phase none the less might have been self inflicted

Response by SGT Anthony Bussing made Apr 11 at 2015 7:28 PM

2015-04-11T19:28:36-04:00

unless you cross the grinder at USMCRD Dago or Parris Island or Quantico...a Marine you are not...PERIOD! that title is EARNED, never given

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 15 at 2015 5:23 PM

2015-04-15T17:23:42-04:00

Claiming to be a Marine just cause you went to boot camp but failed to earn your Eagle, globe and Anchor is like calling yourself a doctor cause you went to med school but failed out. You are only a Marine when you finish, not cause you began.

Response by Sgt Brian Hoffman made Apr 21 at 2015 1:04 AM

2015-04-21T01:04:14-04:00

No, and that's not even a difficult no. Here's an anecdote that makes this question easy for me.

My wife endured 4 years of ROTC, Field Training, OTS, yet was medically discharged mere days before getting her butter bars. She had an allergic reaction in the field with asthmatic symptoms (probably not the best articulation) from allergies she wasn't even aware she had since they hadn't been an issue since she was an infant. She was devastated.

Also at the top of her ROTC up to that point, it seems clear to me (though I'm obviously biased) that she invested and proved quite a bit more than a 1st phase boot drop.

Yet - and here's the kicker - she would cringe if someone asked her why she didn't claim being in the military. She doesn't feel she deserves to say that.

Getting medically dropped as a 1st phase, 2nd phase, or 3rd phase boot does not make him a bad guy. It just also doesn't make him a Marine.

Response by MSgt Willie Crotsley made Apr 23 at 2015 2:50 AM

2015-04-23T02:50:00-04:00

I went through 12 weeks out of 13 and could not qualify with the M-16. Had some other issues go one, but was discharged. I was told I am not a Marine because I did not earn my Eagle Globe and Anchor or walk the Parade deck in 1997. Joined the Air Force and just medically retired. When I went to the VA office they asked me the question, if I want Marines or Air Force on my VA ID, I told them I did not graduate from the Marines therefore, I am only entitled to the Air Force Emblem. Now, how is that taken? Not sure, but in the VA eyes if you are injured during basic training and you become Permanent Disabled you are allowed to call yourself a Marine, but for those who are Marines, the story is different and the tradition is different. Marines hold a standard that means you must earn your right to wear the Eagle, Globe, and Anchor by finishing the final week crucible and walking the parade deck. That is the honor and tradition. As for his clothing and everything he purchased, means he has a sense that he wanted to be in a place where he felt the he belonged, just was not given a full chance to finish his dream so he lives out his life by helping the Marines make money through clothing and glory purchases. It happens, let him think in his mind his way and you think your way, but for the most part, those who been past first phase and served know the rules/tradition.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 30 at 2015 2:02 PM

2015-04-30T14:02:54-04:00

Would've , could've, should've not a Marine period....could receive some benefits for life long injury...

Response by Cpl Anthony Pearson made May 6 at 2015 11:27 AM

2015-05-06T11:27:11-04:00

Wondering if this thread was merged with another. If so, it may have been done in error.

One topic is about Marines graduating boot camp and earning the title, as opposed to those who 'ALMOST' made it.

Another topic deals with being a Marine veteran, and still claiming to be a Marine, after their service has ended.

I wish these threads remained separate.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 12 at 2015 11:04 PM

2015-05-12T23:04:07-04:00

While I am not a Marine I am a Soldier and if you washed out of basic and never even signed in to a unit, then you are not a Soldier, a Marine , an Airmen or a Sailor. It's to easy to collect benefits for something that you never were and claim other wise. When he talks to a real service men/women they will stand stand out like a sore thumb for not having completed the basic task of becoming one of us!!!

Response by SGT Kevin McCourt made May 12 at 2015 11:21 PM

2015-05-12T23:21:39-04:00

I'm not a Marine, but, I have seen these types plenty. Army, Navy, etc. I give them kudos at the attempt. But to say you are a vet, disabled vet. No. Just that simple.

Response by PFC Tuan Trang made May 16 at 2015 2:28 PM

2015-05-16T14:28:09-04:00

"Title is earn, not givin".

Response by SGT Jeremiah B. made May 19 at 2015 3:51 PM

2015-05-19T15:51:43-04:00

I was actually on Sand Hill at Fort Benning with my future brother-in-law (though we didn't discover this for YEARS). I went on through to complete 7 years. He was medicalled out about halfway through infantry school due to a misdiagnosis. He would never in a million years call himself a Soldier. Hell, I don't think he'd refer to himself as a veteran even though most of us would acknowledge that he did what he was asked and was put out through no fault of his own. He loves and supports the Army but there's always this distance created by his inability to finish initial training. Sometimes, you have to make it to the end before you can claim something.

Response by SGT Will Perkins made May 20 at 2015 11:27 AM

2015-05-20T11:27:46-04:00

My father is a retired Marine. There's only one way to be a MARINE....YOU EARN IT. Doesnt matter if he got hurt during BASIC TRAINING or not. The key words here are BASIC TRAINING. You are not a veteran of ANY BRANCH unless you make it out of Basic/Boot. There is nothing wrong with being proud of the fact that you signed up and were willing to do your duty. But the fact is you got hurt and they discharged you PRIOR TO GRADUATION. No Graduation, means you did not serve = NOT A VETERAN = NO BENEFITS.

Response by SPC Donald Moore made May 20 at 2015 1:11 PM

2015-05-20T13:11:33-04:00

I voted on this before, but I feel the desire to comment again.
I don't see how getting injured in basic (earning disability or not) should qualify anyone, in any branch of service to call themselves a veteran at all. They didn't complete training and never served. That would be like someone that voluntarily quit or washed out calling themselves a veteran. Or someone that never served calling themselves a veteran. Stolen Valor.

I recently read a post on here that people that were not in combat shouldn't even call themselves veterans. I don't agree with that, but there are some people that feel that strongly.
How do you feel?

Response by LCpl Francisco Bedoya made May 20 at 2015 2:11 PM

2015-05-20T14:11:34-04:00

What do you call a doctor that did not finish medical school? that's right he's a dentist lol.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 20 at 2015 2:45 PM

2015-05-20T14:45:20-04:00

It is unfortunate that some Marine recruits will be dropped from training for medical reasons. But, until you graduate from Boot Camp, you are not a Marine. Semper Fi.

Response by TSgt David L. made May 28 at 2015 4:25 PM

2015-05-28T16:25:20-04:00

Nope, not a marine. Through no fault of his own, but he didn't complete the transformation. If you fail or medically drop from astronaut training you don't get to be called an astronaut. Right?!

Response by SGT Anthony Bussing made Jun 1 at 2015 10:25 PM

2015-06-01T22:25:07-04:00

you also cannot be a "retired marine" if you did not retire from the Marine Corps...

Response by SSgt Scott Schwerman made Jun 24 at 2015 3:17 PM

2015-06-24T15:17:45-04:00

Veteran, yes. Marine Veteran, no. The title was never earned if you didn't go all the way through with training.

Response by PO1 John Miller made Jul 2 at 2015 8:42 PM

2015-07-02T20:42:16-04:00

HELL NO they're not a Marine. I don't even consider them a veteran. Some may consider that brutal, but if you don't complete basic training from any branch YOU ARE NOT A VETERAN. I don't care WHAT the VA or anybody else says, that's my opinion and I'm sticking to it.

Response by LCpl Mark Lefler made Jul 2 at 2015 9:04 PM

2015-07-02T21:04:09-04:00

IMO you're not a marine until you get into the FMF.

Response by Cpl Warren Howerter made Jul 2 at 2015 9:37 PM

2015-07-02T21:37:28-04:00

During time of "war" once you completed at least the 2nd phase. The recruit could be deployed. Now I can't say if that is true or not. Scuttle Butt. My thought you need to earn the title not givin.

Response by Cpl Michael Jones made Jul 14 at 2015 8:44 PM

2015-07-14T20:44:48-04:00

I respect him for going to boot camp but the title of Marine is earned upon completion of boot camp.

Response by PFC Terry Kuehner made Jul 16 at 2015 3:04 PM

2015-07-16T15:04:40-04:00

No I would not as a Marine vet. myself you earn that title at graduation

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 27 at 2015 3:32 AM

2015-07-27T03:32:10-04:00

No and Yes. First, he didn't complete his basic training because of an injury. Second he must have gone through the PEB because of his injuries to receive his VA service-connected disabilities while in basic training. Further more he must have received a discharge from the Marine Corps stating the fact that the PEB inquiry stated his injuries could not justify him continuing his basic training. So to answer your question if a Marine Veteran can be or not be a Marine because he did not finish his basic training due to his injuries is pretty moot. To be recognized and receive VA benefits you have to be eligible as a veteran whom served on active duty in any capacity and was discharged with an other than Honorable discharge. No, he maybe not a Marine in our eyes, but the facts remains that another Government Agency like the VA says he's eligible because of his status of being active duty for training and being injuried the same time. 38 CFR. JK

Response by LCpl Dale Blackmon made Jul 27 at 2015 8:39 AM

2015-07-27T08:39:38-04:00

I don't believe so because, he didn't graduate. It's unusual that he's collecting VA benefits regards of graduation. It's really a question to be posed to CMC, I guess. I've been out since '93. I don't know what the current regs are.

Response by PO1 John Miller made Jul 31 at 2015 7:01 AM

2015-07-31T07:01:45-04:00

Since this came up in my feed again, I felt this scene from Full Metal Jacket was appropriate.

Pay particular attention to 0:35-0:45
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bu0juhFBbjA

Full Metal Jacket- Graduation

These recruits of platoon 3092 are salty. They are ready to eat their guts and ask for seconds. At first, they came walking through the woods as they are in ...

Response by SPC Geoffrey Jenkins made Sep 28 at 2015 12:46 AM

2015-09-28T00:46:34-04:00

I am prior service Army and Navy,
once a Marine always a Marine!

Response by SSG Todd Halverson made Nov 5 at 2015 5:44 PM

2015-11-05T17:44:26-05:00

Your friend may be a Veteran because of the VA Disability they are receiving, but they are no Marine. That is something they earn upon completion of basic. Just like in any other branch, you are just a trainee until you complete basic. Then, you are just a Soldier/Sailor/whatever. Once you pass your advanced training you are a trained one. I have friends who did not make it past basic and try claiming they are a Vet and try talking crap about the other branches. If I am with them, I bust their balls and ask them how would you know, you never made it past basic.

Response by LCpl Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 22 at 2015 12:37 PM

2015-12-22T12:37:16-05:00

It's nothing against him at all, actually good on him for having the balls to go for it but at the end of the day the drill instructors have a job to do and if you can't get past them and their island you'll never make it in the fleet

Response by LCpl Billy Bastian made Feb 3 at 2016 5:25 PM

2016-02-03T17:25:25-05:00

To be specific, if you make it through Boot Camp, the day the DI refers to you as a Marine and you get the EGA you are an official Marine...what and where your service takes you after that is icing on the cake! Bad Conduct and Dishonorable discharge from what I have been told don't even change that because you did earn the title...and that's coming from Vietnam Vets who know that bad things sometimes happen to good people. That part would be the only gray area but if you earned the title you can call yourself a Marine...just not an Honorably Discharged Marine. I am with the other Marines that feel being discharged during Boot Camp does not make the grade and would be then be called a Marine Recruit...because at least they tried while some can't even say that. Semper Fi

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 7 at 2017 4:36 PM

2017-07-07T16:36:01-04:00

No, if you don't finish boot camp, you're not a Marine. I get it though. Someone who wanted to be there and probably had what it took to be there and succeed, didn't get to because of an injury. That sucks. But if the #1 draft pick in the NFL gets hurt prior to draft day, he can't claim to be a NFL player. Again, that sucks for him. But it just didn't work out. The same goes for your in-law. Sorry.

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made May 8 at 2018 10:40 PM

2018-05-08T22:40:39-04:00

I thought they were not considered to be Marines until graduation!. This from my leatherneck buddies.

Response by Matt Moon made May 15 at 2018 2:27 PM

2018-05-15T14:27:08-04:00

Technically your required to earn the Egale, Globe & Anchor by graduating from the Marine Corps Recruit Depot. I'm in the Texas State Guard Maritime Regiment we ware the same Desert Digital Uniform MCCUU - Marine Corps Combat Utility Uniform our NWU - Navy Working Uniform. We were created by Prior Service Navy Sailors & Marines onboard the USS BB35 Texan New York Class Destroyer on 10 October 2006 before it got decommissioned and turned into a museum peace . We have modified the EGA & ACE anyone who has never been a part of the Marine Corps is required to ware Navy Rank . I was a Young Marine when i joined i wanted to represent the Marine Corps not the Navy . The Texas State Guard Maritime Regiment is considered to be the 3rd stool of the Texas State Military Department also a part of the Department of Homeland Security under the Army National Guard & Air Force Air National Guard. The State Military Department & Governor of State consider us to be Marines & Sailors but the Department of Defense dose not we get looked down on for not completing A - School our MCRD. The Marine Corps dose not own the rights to the word Marine nor dose the Navy own the rights to the word Sailor. However it is a requirement in order to be a Merchant Marine you have to complete a Bootcamp the Marine Corps has to complete a Bootcamp the State Guard Maritime Regiment has to complete ROBOT- Reserve Basic Orientation Traning until they can officially say there a member of the Texas State Guard Maritime Regiment. The way i look at it anyone who has taken it upon themselves to serve there country our state is a Marine our Salior at the end of the day we both ware the same uniform. Regardless you earn the right to ware the uniform and call yourself a Marine our Sailor when you take the oath of enlistment and raise your right hand. The rest depends on if you serve honorably. People can't help it because a medical condition held them back form acomplishing there dream . The Navy & Marines aren't like Special Operations where you give your DOR- Drop On Request. You got removed because you got medically discharged and couldn't continue your training so you never had the chance to prove yourself it depends on how you want to look at it.

Response by Matt Moon made May 15 at 2018 2:43 PM

2018-05-15T14:43:05-04:00

Well there's shitbags in the Marine Corps who earned the title and they never should have been Marines in the first place. They set a bad image for the Marine Corps . So I wouldn't look down on someone who actually joined the Marine Corps but they got kicked out on a Medical Discharge and never had a chance to prove themselves. They could have been one of the best Marines the Corps has ever seen it's not really there fault that they couldn't get recycled and be given a second chance to prove themselves. That would be like me turning my back on fallen Marine because he's injured than i refuse to give him medical treatment and leave there to die telling him he's not worthy to be among us . We all stand together as one unless your a peace of shit . No Marine i know has ever looked down on us they consider us a part of there team they realize they have there job and we have ours .

Response by SSG Brian L. made Nov 16 at 2019 3:57 PM

2019-11-16T15:57:27-05:00

Bad joke

Response by MAJ Tom Harper made Nov 23 at 2019 4:45 PM

2019-11-23T16:45:41-05:00

Yes. But with an explanation.

Response by CPT Wayne Price made Dec 9 at 2019 1:14 PM

2019-12-09T13:14:50-05:00

The Marine Corp state ths you become a Marine when you complete Marine Basic and Receive the Eagle, Globe and Anchor.

Response by SSG Robert Mark Odom made Jan 4 at 2020 1:27 PM

2020-01-04T13:27:57-05:00

These are real Marines!

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 5 at 2020 9:04 PM

2020-01-05T21:04:48-05:00

What does his discharge papers say and his DD-214? I won’t judge someone for trying to be a Marine, but if he is receiving VA Disability benefits, then there’s more to this story.

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 5 at 2020 9:08 PM

2020-01-05T21:08:16-05:00

Not a Marine because he didn’t finish his Boot Camp BASIC TRAINING. Though he’s a Veteran due to his disabilities while in Basic Training.

Response by CPL Matthew Cervantes made Jan 9 at 2020 3:09 PM

2020-01-09T15:09:49-05:00

Opinion is likely going to vary. My own is this, per CFR you are a veteran. Now when people ask your branch I'm pretty sure you would say Marines, because you enlisted in the Marines. Which would technically make you a Marine despite not having the opportunity of earning the eagle, globe and anchor due to injury sustained during training.

Response by Cpl Bruce Hoffman made Feb 21 at 2020 11:37 AM

2020-02-21T11:37:05-05:00

While his experience is sad, and he may have put forth his best. That doesn't make him a Marine. The only thing required is to graduate. With out that your not a marine. A lot of people try. Which is admirable. But, sorry no cigar. That's why boot camp is so tough. To get only the best. Being a marine is a matter of completing certain tasks, and finishing. No cudos for trying.

Response by Sgt Peter Schlesiona made Apr 11 at 2020 8:41 PM

2020-04-11T20:41:18-04:00

I would not say he’s a Marine just because he enlisted. Dan Rather enlisted and washed out of Boot Camp. Non-hacker. Rather is not a Marine even though he has claimed he is for years.
In this case, however, not having finished Boot Camp was not his fault. Bad luck of getting injured. He’s a Marine in my book.

Response by Sgt David E. Daviston made May 31 at 2020 8:56 PM

2020-05-31T20:56:39-04:00

Once a marine always a marine i have been out since 87 i still can not stop being a marine ooh rah.