What advice would RP Marines give to a young lad about to go off to boot camp in San Diego?

2015-09-20T14:52:34-04:00

I realize there is another discussion about this, but it was a LT asking about infiltry.

I do not know a thing about the Marines.

My grandson's mom's boyfriend just signed up. He has no family/friends who were in the service much less the Marines.

Is there or are there any tips from RP Marine members can give me and I can share it with him.

Thanks in advance.

Response by SSgt Terry P. made Sep 20 at 2015 2:58 PM

2015-09-20T14:58:57-04:00

Tell him to remember that Boot Camp does end,and he will be a Marine for life when he finishes his training. Semper Fi

Response by CWO3 Victor E Velasquez made Sep 20 at 2015 2:59 PM

2015-09-20T14:59:17-04:00

Do what they ask of you, and do not give up! The weather is excellent hear in San Diego enjoy your training.

Response by Sgt Cody Dumont made Sep 20 at 2015 3:03 PM

2015-09-20T15:03:28-04:00

Remember the goal of boot camp is to prepare you to be a Marine, it's not personal and all it takes to complete boot is the will to complete it. The pain during 13 weeks is nothing compared to the pride he will feel for the rest of his life.

Response by Cpl Chris Cargile made Sep 20 at 2015 3:05 PM

2015-09-20T15:05:29-04:00

Every day in boot camp is going to suck, some will just suck more than others. The thing is, you're not good enough the way you are: you're not strong enough, fast enough or tough enough. You don't know enough or care enough about your Corps or your Brother Marines. Just try to absorb everything they try to teach you, in and out of class. Realize that the reason that bastard of a DI and his two buddies are there is because they're some of the best the Corps has, there to teach you some things by their example. Oh, and try not to call too much attention to yourself, in the Marines the nail that sticks up gets hammered down!

Response by MCPO Roger Collins made Sep 20 at 2015 3:08 PM

2015-09-20T15:08:25-04:00

Stay away from Tijuana?

Response by Capt Walter Miller made Sep 20 at 2015 3:11 PM

2015-09-20T15:11:08-04:00

Take it one day at a time. Or even from one meal from the next.

And just say to yourself, "No way in Hell am I going back home until I get this done."

In my platoon at Parris Island we started with 70 and graduated 36.

I don't know if is like that now or not. The DI's were always screaming, "I'm setting you back, I am setting you back!" Boot camp is in 3 phases, so they meant to the start of the previous phase.

Try to excel. Stay engaged.

Walt

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 20 at 2015 3:32 PM

2015-09-20T15:32:50-04:00

Listen intently, respond when required. Help those who need help, but don't compromise your own success.

Response by LCpl Mark Lefler made Sep 20 at 2015 3:43 PM

2015-09-20T15:43:41-04:00

Realistic piece of advise even if it chaps a few people. Don't be an under achieve or an over achiever, one does not want to be "on the radar". Being middle of the pack means your not scrutinized as other people.

When he's there, he's there and doing things to try and get out just means he'll be there longer then everyone else ultimately. People who try to get out before the end, they make sure to keep longer.

Even if he's not religious, go to church, its one of the few places he can sit somewhere without someone breathing down his neck.

My DI's gave the bottom 3 recruits more guard duty so they could study the knowledge questions more, so be good at them. I found that the guard duty list was recycled at times so being good at the knowledge and in the middle with everything else kept me off guard duty. I think in the 13 weeks of basic training I had guard duty about 6 times.

Don't fail the practice PFT or the PFT, that will result in some serious DI misery.

DO NOT FAIL THE RIFLE RANGE!! watching the people who failed it and had to be recycled looked like misery on earth. I was so glad not to be one of them.

Take nothing personal, ever, they will say some really jacked up stuff. My DI found out i was married and commented he bet my wife was ugly as hell, which wasn't true. He was just testing my discipline.

Don't put anything in a letter home you don't want anyone else to see.

Don't receive compromising pictures of ones girlfriend/spouse, they will be seen by others.

Now I will say there are toxic DI's out there, I remember being in the fleet and listening to a Staff Sgt say "I remember when I was a DI, I loved torturing the recruits when I was in a bad mood because it made me feel better.".

That's everything I can think of at the moment.

Response by Sgt Tom Cunnally made Sep 20 at 2015 4:24 PM

2015-09-20T16:24:12-04:00

Get in the best physical conditioning possible..I was told to do a lot of running before going to Boot Camp..

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 20 at 2015 4:39 PM

2015-09-20T16:39:17-04:00

Boot Camp is an intense learning experience. Pay attention to everything the DI's say and do. Study and learn all of the lessons that are presented to you. If you are weak in one area, work to improve so that you are solid in all areas. keep your focus and always strive to be the best Marine that you can be.

Response by Capt Richard I P. made Sep 20 at 2015 5:28 PM

2015-09-20T17:28:54-04:00

There is only one secret to success in the Marine Corps (and probably in life) refuse to quit. If you refuse to quit, there are only two outcomes, success and death. Not many people die in Boot Camp, the instructors and medical staff are there to help prevent that. That only leaves success.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 20 at 2015 5:31 PM

2015-09-20T17:31:34-04:00

Every second they have with you is one second less that they have with you. It's going to feel like forever, your whole world is going to be rocked and you're not going to know what is going on half of the time. Just be loud, be expedient in your actions and remember that you are not in this for yourself, your brother next to you is just as important as you are.

Response by LCpl Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 20 at 2015 7:53 PM

2015-09-20T19:53:03-04:00

When your drill instructors mess with you and say it's one of the other recruits fault it's probably not they are trying to put you under as much stress as possible and turn you against each other don't let them keep y'all from acting like a team

Response by Sgt Pedro Jauregui made Sep 21 at 2015 12:23 AM

2015-09-21T00:23:50-04:00

I honestly believe that the first week there sucks and the first week training starts sucks. But then you just get used to it. Tell him to hang in there and stay strong. Once he acclimates to the training it gets easier. Because then you have your platoon brothers pushing and motivating each other. And that's the true essence of the Corps. One brother helping another brother.

Response by Cpl James Waycasie made Sep 21 at 2015 2:46 AM

2015-09-21T02:46:13-04:00

Pay close attention to what the D.I.'s are saying and do your best to follow their instruction to the letter. Do not say I, You, or me. First word out of your mouth is Sir, last word out of your mouth is Sir. DO NOT look your D.I. in the eyes, pick a spot right above his head when being addressed by him. Do not scratch, look around, rub your head, or anything else without asking permission to do so first from Your D.I. If he says no you can't, do not try and sneak a scratch in. He will catch you and you will pay dearly. Eat your food fast, very fast or you might not get but a few bites. Unless things have changed, after lights out and fire watch is posted, individuals can whisper to the fire watch and get permission from him to go use the head ( Bathroom). This is very important. D.I.'s most times will reject your request to make a head call. Do not request permission again and say it's an emergency head call. All you will accomplish is to get to run around screaming like a siren. A lot of guys having to hold their bowel movements would end up seriously constipated and endure severe pain until they get to see a Corpsman for meds to regulate them again. I don't care how tired you are, utilize the lights out time and use the Head every night. When first experiencing taking a shower, lather up sparingly with soap, you are not going to get it all rinsed off and if you put a lot on it's going to dry and itch like crazy. You will be lucky if you are in the shower a whole minute before the D'I runs you out and he is not going to give you permission to scratch the itchy dry soap. Do everything very fast. You are never going to be fast enough but go as fast as you can. Remember this one thing. The D.I.'s are going to torment you, ridicule you, punish you , and pretty much make your life more miserable than it has ever been. You are going to think they hate your guts. That's not true, it is not personal, it's a weeding out of the mentally and physically weak people. Just remember that their job is to see if you have what it takes to wear that EGA. Just keep in your mind that it's a test to see your mettle. Take bootcamp minute by minute, do not focus on how long you have left. Keep telling yourself that no matter what they say, no matter what they do that you can beat this. You will find out when they hand you your EGA on graduation day that they are no longer your D.I, but they have accepted you forever as a brother. I touched the tip of the iceberg. I could write 20 pages of advice, lol, but these will be a big help on how to get off on the right foot.

Response by Sgt Tom Cunnally made Sep 21 at 2015 6:13 AM

2015-09-21T06:13:31-04:00

There is not a day that goes by that I don't think about my years in the Marine Corps & Parris Island brings back memories of a time when you begin as a young boy but after only ten weeks you are a Marine.

Response by Capt Mark Strobl made Sep 21 at 2015 11:09 AM

2015-09-21T11:09:07-04:00

Tell the lad to prepare to submit his body and spirit to harsh instructors... He will receive a soul (stealing from R. Kiplling)! Submit wholly to the ethos of our Corps and he'll do just fine. And please, show up in good shape!

Response by SGT Jerrold Pesz made Sep 21 at 2015 5:31 PM

2015-09-21T17:31:12-04:00

I am not a Marine but the best advice that I would give the young lad is to join the Army. lol

Response by SSgt Alex Robinson made Sep 21 at 2015 11:55 PM

2015-09-21T23:55:17-04:00

listen and learn...

Response by SSG Carlos Madden made Sep 22 at 2015 2:15 PM

2015-09-22T14:15:05-04:00

Great question. Thanks for posting. I'm curious what younger Marines have to say.

Response by LCpl Adrian Ward made Sep 29 at 2015 1:32 PM

2015-09-29T13:32:48-04:00

Whatever you think you know about the military doesnt mean squat in recruit training. Its all about instant obedience to order and becoming a Marine. When I stepped on those yellow footprints, I was a turd that thought I knew what I was all about. Looking back, the best decision I made was to accept the challenge of being a US Marine. Also, on a side note to the lad, do not ignore a legitimate injury. Regardless of what others say, get it documented at Medical and then carry on. When your service concludes, you will be compensated for those injuries and receive care for the rest of your existence. Trust me, you will need it...

Response by Cpl Keith Gideon made Sep 29 at 2015 2:02 PM

2015-09-29T14:02:56-04:00

The Marines need two types of enlisted Men, Leaders and Followers. If you are a Leader, become a Squad Leader, and be Stronger, Faster, Smarter then the rest of the Recruits, and Help the followers. If he is a Follower, be a Great follower, Listen, follow direction , Be Fast, move with Speed and Intensity. Whatever path, Do not bring negative attention to yourself, because you will be Strong!, lol.
Not everyone can be a Marine, but it's harder to quit, than it is to Graduate and Earn your EGA. I was hurt , and dropped twice to other companies, and Platoons. I never gave up, ended up in Bootcamp for 6 Months, and even became Company High Shooter. He has to want to be a Marine, more than any pain he may endure, and will have to reach down farther inside than he has ever reached before. Good Luck to your Son, tell him to " EARN IT".

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 29 at 2015 2:10 PM

2015-09-29T14:10:21-04:00

"INSTANT OBEDIENCE TO ORDERS!"

Understand that it is the job of the DI to transform the worthless piles of scum they have the misfortune to attempt to train, into hard charging Devil Dogs.

Go in with an open mind and understand that sometimes you get what you ask for.

You do not know your limits, DI's will push you and your envelope until you become something greater than you thought possible.

The words "I Can't" should not be used, ever, while in MC bootcamp. What is being asked of you has already been done by every single Marine who has come before. If you truly feel "I Can't" you do not deserve the honor of "becoming" a Marine.

Pain is Temporary, Pride is forever

It is all in your mind, discipline the mind and the body will follow.

Response by 1stSgt Ray Binney made Sep 29 at 2015 2:18 PM

2015-09-29T14:18:52-04:00

Cpl Cargile & Sgt Dumont are spot on, It's going to suck from time to time and don't take it personal.

Response by Cpl Edward Ramos made Sep 29 at 2015 2:32 PM

2015-09-29T14:32:42-04:00

Marine Corps Boot Camp, whether Parris Island or San Diego is no walk in the park. He needs to start getting into the best physical condition possible before he even thinks about placing that foot on the yellow foot prints. He needs to keep his mouth shut and ears open. Take every available moment to memorize his General Orders and all the Practical Knowledge that will be thrown at him. For the time he is at boot camp he should completely forget about what is going on real-time outside the walls of MCRD and pay attention to what is happening all around within the yellow walls of MCRD.
Two keys to surviving boot camp: 1) It's a head game 2) take each day, one at a time.

Response by MSgt Ronald Hays made Sep 29 at 2015 3:06 PM

2015-09-29T15:06:46-04:00

Do what he's told, don't give up, give it your all. First they break you down mentally and physically and then they build you back up. Stay with the program and he'll be okay.

Response by LCpl Ray Gaytan made Sep 29 at 2015 3:52 PM

2015-09-29T15:52:23-04:00

Oh yea!!!! 13 weeks of intense training. Drink lots of water. stay away from junk. I am assuming he is probably in the delayed entry program. He will never sleep. learn to speak in 3rd person. It is all mental. Learn the ranks. Lean the general orders. lots of games. might want to watch some youtube videos on Marine Bootcamp. he will survive! He will be tired, they will break him, everyone is broken. I wish the new recruit good luck! run a lot. stay away from weights. Oh boy!!!! here comes the fun.

Response by Cpl Jamie Youngs made Sep 29 at 2015 3:55 PM

2015-09-29T15:55:54-04:00

I would say study Marine Corps history!! Know it inside out. Then I would say be somewhat in shape. Run in your off time. Then I would say, stand tall, eyes forward, feet 45 degrees, do everything with a purpose. Never give up and never let them see you break. Bend maybe but never break! Sound off loud! And lastly, stay disipline! When you think nobody is watching you and what you do at that time will define you as a recruit in basic training. One more thing! If you already know how to shoot a weapon, forget everything you know. Let them teach you! And pay the hell attention!! :-)

Response by LCpl Rickey White made Sep 29 at 2015 5:03 PM

2015-09-29T17:03:04-04:00

I was in the corp in 1972. parris island. it was a living hell. I do agree with cpl cargile .on what he has stated. keep a low profile, do as you are told and don't volunteer for anything. just remember, that you will make it through all of it like 1000's before him.and when he get to the end of his training and graduates, he will look back and say , that wasn't bad after all. and it will change his life....
good luck to you.

Response by Cpl Carlos Tombo made Sep 29 at 2015 5:17 PM

2015-09-29T17:17:49-04:00

Eyes and ears, look, listen, everything has a purpose, never give up period!!!!!

Response by LCpl Steve Panza made Sep 29 at 2015 6:03 PM

2015-09-29T18:03:56-04:00

30 years later, boot camp is still a very vivid memory. Especially waking up the first morning to screaming, metal trash cans flying, and it's still dark out (in August). I wouldn't trade the experience.

Response by Cpl Charles Vadnais made Sep 29 at 2015 6:10 PM

2015-09-29T18:10:39-04:00

The best advice I got was to just take it a day at a time. Don't count yourself up or down. Just focus on the moment. Once I did that time flew by.

Other than that most advice I can give pertains to leaving bootcamp, you'll see good leaders and bad ones throughout your career. Learn from both of them and do your best not to become the leader you hate later in your career.

Response by GySgt Moses Lozano made Sep 29 at 2015 6:13 PM

2015-09-29T18:13:09-04:00

Just tell him to do everything with speed and intensity. As long as he does that he will get his opportunity to earn the title.

Response by Cpl David Klassen made Sep 29 at 2015 6:18 PM

2015-09-29T18:18:47-04:00

Don't look at the airplanes taking off and landing, you wont be fast enough to catch one till you graduate. Know your weapon as well as yourself. Listen to your SDI, PMI and DI's and take it to heart what they instruct you, it can serve you well. and for after you graduate "Semper Fi, Marine!" because before you do you are the lowest form of life, a recruit for the Marines Corp
For you non-hackers out there:
SDI - Senior Drill Instructor
PMI - Primary Marksmanship Instructor

Response by LCpl Steve Smith made Sep 29 at 2015 6:30 PM

2015-09-29T18:30:11-04:00

Sgt Kelli Mays,
Marine Corps Boot Camp will test his Physical and Mental toughness, endurance, and will to it's limits and then they will push those limits even further (what he "thinks" his Limits are, are not his real limits). Oh tell him Do NOT shave his head before entering Boot Camp! ( he want to be invisible )entering boot with your head already shaved will bring attention to himself. And that means more friendly interactions with the Drill Instructors lol(see it happen) they want to shave his head ( it's part of the processes of getting rid of the Slimy Civilian in him). Tell Him to get ready to "pay" the consequences for other Recruits mistakes (and yes it will happen a lot) lol.

He just like most people that have been in Boot Camp will get pushed to his Braking point and question if he made the right choice wanting to become a Marine. Tell him to Keep his eye on the Prize and he just might make it. He will have 2 or more (more then likely more) Drill Instructors getting up close and personal with him all giving him different orders at the same time (Very Funny to see not to have happen to you) That is a Training tool (it is to help you learn to Focus while distractions are all around him). Tell him to listen (the best he can) to the 1st Drill Instructor that gets in his face, which is Very hard at 1st to do because all the other Drill Instructors are yelling at the top of their lungs other things and orders. Another big tip is NOT to say "I" he is no longer an individual. Never Never leave his foot Locker unlocked..lol ( Yes it is Like in the movies ) that is one of the things they always look for. It doesn't matter if he knows his left from his right before going in because he will forget and will get yelled at lol and or "Bent" for it lol. and last tell him he better listen and learn how to shoot the Rifle (Every Marine is a Riflemen above anything else)

Like Cpl Chris Cargile Said "Every Day in Boot Camp is going to Suck"
So tell him if he has any doubts about becoming a Marine, he might as well not enter Boot and save himself the hair cut lol. Why do I say that?, Because the Doubts he has now prior to going in, will get amplified in Boot Camp. Being a Marine is a way of Life, and if he wants to make it a Carrier that is what his mind set needs to be, That the Marine Corps is a way of Life, not a Life style. And if he makes it and becomes a Marine. He will have a Family for Life.

Response by LCpl Chris Laemmle made Sep 29 at 2015 6:36 PM

2015-09-29T18:36:46-04:00

The most important thing he can take into boot camp is that nothing that goes on is personal. Boot camp is designed to make civilians into Marines and the corps has been doing it for a long time. They have it down pat. First they strip you of your civilian identity and make you feel like the lowest piece of scum on earth and then they gradually build you up and shape you into being a Marine. He just has to remember that it is all planned out. His focus has to be on finishing. The DI's focus is on making you break, for his job is to weed out those who will snap under pressure and make the remainder into Marines.

Response by SSgt Pedro Estrada made Sep 29 at 2015 6:46 PM

2015-09-29T18:46:41-04:00

Three words that you'll always remember and utilize on a daily basis, regardless if military or civilian. Adapt, improvise and overcome. Boot camp is a physiological and physical demanding world. Class of 1978, San Diego, Ca.... Semper Fi.

Response by Cpl Robert Masi made Sep 29 at 2015 7:59 PM

2015-09-29T19:59:26-04:00

The same advice I'd give to Paris Island Marines:
1. Most tasks you are given, you are expected to fail, initially. Keep calm in those moments of failure. Most guys lose their heads and they shut down mentally, and start yelling at everyone, which is bad for group moral. If you want to be a Squad Leader or Guide, stay calm and be the positive force to get everyone to dig in.
2. At some point, you are likely to get so frustrated, you'll lose your shit. That's fine. Just have the strength to pick yourself back up again. If you allow yourself to break, don't stay broken. Harden up and get back on point.
3. As a squad leader, I learned that if you are respected by your squad, they'll dig in harder and will achieve more than the squads led by the asshole Squad Leaders. Be supportive, and on runs, support your weakest links to keep on pushing. Build a bond with your weak links, so they try harder. Your entire squad will respect you for stuff like that. And your DI's will respect you for bringing the squad together. Which is what a good Squad Leader should do anyway, get the best results out of their subordinates......But don't be a pushover.
4. The Squads led by the assholes that always yell at their guys, will give up on their Squad Leader. So if you're a good Squad Leader, you may have the worst squad (Like I had been given), but they'll end up doing better on all the tasks.

Response by LCpl Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 29 at 2015 8:05 PM

2015-09-29T20:05:57-04:00

MARINES, that is how you spell the best. M is motivated. A is always ready. R is rough as hell. I is in the shit. N is never quit. E is everday. S is Semper Fi till I die.

Response by Sgt Loren Petty made Sep 29 at 2015 8:09 PM

2015-09-29T20:09:09-04:00

Tell him to start running now. Run every day until he can easily run five miles. When he gets to boot camp, the best advice is to keep your mouth shut at all times and obey all orders instantly. The rest he will learn as he goes along. It will be fun. ;-)

Response by Cpl Michael Mead made Sep 29 at 2015 8:17 PM

2015-09-29T20:17:53-04:00

Prior to bootcamp start getting in shape. LOTS of running, pushups, situps & pullups. During bootcamp WHATEVER a Drill Instructor tells you to do, do it. Without hesitation. During classes make sure to take detailed notes (there will be a test). Everything you are doing you should have finished 5 minutes ago. No one is truly "READY" for boot camp.

Response by SSgt James Howerton made Sep 29 at 2015 9:41 PM

2015-09-29T21:41:09-04:00

I'll try to give you some help that I wish I had known going into the Corps. You have to remember that I joined in 1977 so some things have changed but not the main parts of earning the title and being a Marine. I was medically retired after 12 years of Active Duty due to an injury, so like I said, some things have changed. First off, he should get as physically fit as he possibly can between now and when he has to report. Run, run, and then run some more. If he can run 3 miles in 20-25 mins he'll be OK there. By 3rd Phase he'll be able to run 5-10 miles with ease. At a minimum he should be able to run 3 miles in under 28 mins, unless that standard has changed. Next, he should work on his upper body strength, by doing push-ups, pull-ups, lifting weights, etc. If he can do between 12-20 pull-ups (Marine Corps pull-ups, arms extended straight and pulling his chin above the bar and then back down to a straight hang, but he doesn't have to stop completely, just make sure he extends his arms fully) then he'll be fine there. They might even allow you to kip by now but they didn't when I was a kid. At a minimum, he HAS to be able to do 3 Marine Corps pull-ups. The 3rd part of the Physical Fitness Test (PFT) is sit-ups. Again, unless the standards have changed, he should be able to do 80 in less than 2 minutes. Sit-ups are the easiest part of the PFT. They may seem hard at first but the human abdominal muscles adapt and repair quickly.
Next, his physical appearance should be as squared away as possible. If he has super long hair, cut it. This usually isn't a problem nowadays but when I went in during June of 1977, it was. And don't wear pants that hang off your a** showing your underwear. Don't wear a tee shirt that says something like "Marijuana is God's Natural Healing Herb." Believe it or not, some kid had on that tee when I went into Boot Camp. Even I knew that was stupid (this was all before they had urinalysis).
I'd also echo some of the other posts on here. Be low key. Don't attract attention. Speak ONLY when spoken to by a Drill Instructor (or Officer, obviously). Start each reply with the word "Sir". "Sir, yes sir" is the correct answer when a D.I. asks you if you're an idiot. Every answer will start with "Sir" and end with "Sir". Always refer to one's self as "The Private." For instance, "Sir, can the Private use the head, Sir?" NEVER use the words "I" or "You". An Eye is in your head and a Ewe is a female sheep. LISTEN VERY CAREFULLY AND WATCH EVERYTHING a D.I. says or does. D.I.'s HATE repeating themselves. To be a D.I., you have to be one of the best Marines in the Corps. The selection process and training school are brutal. Do everything as quickly as possible, then do it faster.
If your Grandson's Mom's boyfriend shoots a rifle, good. If he owns or has access to an AR-15, even better. If he does have this advantage, tell him when he's not PT-ing (Physical Training) to go to a gun range and practice as much as he can. I know the Known Distance Rifle Qualification has changed quite a bit from the last time I fired an M-16 in 1988. The young man could probably get the dope of Marine Corps Rifle Qualification standards from his Recruiter. Remember, EVERY MARINE IS A RIFLEMAN.
As long as he does the best he can and remembers that this is training to make him a combat-ready individual, he should be good to go. Once I made it past 1st Phase I started to realize I had been broken down and now they were starting to build me back up. I thought, "Just treat this as a challenging game" and that's what I did. I also had some songs in my head that helped me make it when I was exhausted, like Tom Petty and the Heartbreaker's "You Don't Have To Live Like A Refugee." I know that may sound dumb to some people but it was a coping mechanism I used and it served me well. I got laid out by a D.I. once for something he had told the Platoon not to do but the Senior D.I. had come by and told me to do. When the original D.I. saw that I was doing what he saw as complete disobedience of a lawful order, he went off high and to the right. When the Senior D.I. saw what happened, he explained that he had told me to do the activity. I think then it dawned on the D.I. that he could be busted for what he did and it was the only time I saw uncertainty in a D.I.'s face. Of course, I would never have reported any D.I. for a jab to the chest. But they're not even allowed to touch you now.
Tell your future Marine I said good luck and God Speed. Semper Fidelis!

James A. Howerton II
SSgt USMC (Ret)

Response by Cpl Raymond Hottinger made Sep 30 at 2015 2:50 AM

2015-09-30T02:50:46-04:00

an old marine i used to work with gave me this advice before i went to boot camp in '94.
1. they can't eat you
2. boot camp is a game by Milton Bradley.

if your body is not strong enough it will be by the end but if your mind is not strong enough than you will have some serious problems.

Response by LCpl Ron Griffith made Sep 30 at 2015 3:02 AM

2015-09-30T03:02:14-04:00

I go back a ways MCRD SD 1979, some things have changed but the most important have not the primary duty of the Corps and Marines where ever they find themselves. In Boot the job is to tear the individual down to the basic and then rebuild them, Mentally, Physically and Emotionally (Psychologically), to perform the primary task of the Corps. Listen to everything, keep your ears, eyes (front only), and mind open to all the information given you, also move as fast as you can, (yes it will never be fast enough), to do everything you are instructed to do and above all “Never Give Up!”

Response by Sgt Sabrina Williams made Sep 30 at 2015 6:13 AM

2015-09-30T06:13:37-04:00

Marine Corps training is like no other training you will receive. If you're not mentally strong you won't make it. Boot camp isn't forever even though it may seem like it is. You will be yelled at constantly. If you don't know how to make a rack, you will. When you can bounce a quarter off of it, then its right. Tell your mom or who ever not to send you care packages with food in it like cookies. Do everything they tell you to do even if it doesn't make sense. There's a purpose for everything you do. Give your all in everything you do. Don't call unwanted attention to yourself. Pay attention to everything that they tell you. Don't take anything personal because its not. Soak up everything that they are teaching you. Never use the word I. You're no longer an individual anymore. Say I and they will make you pay for it. You're not going to get everything right so don't act like you know more than the DI's. Never give up and never leave your footlocker unlocked. Trust me if you do, you will pay for it. Nothing is ever given to you. You earn everything. Your proudest moment will be when you finally earn that eagle, globe, and anchor. Then you will be part of an elite family for life.

Response by Sgt Michael Batterton made Sep 30 at 2015 8:22 AM

2015-09-30T08:22:26-04:00

It's going to be hard, but remember they are going to break you down only so they can build you up and make you a Marine. There are few accomplishments in life that compare to the everlasting brotherhood of the United States Marine Corps. Don't quit and believe in yourself.

Response by Sgt Matthew Tosto made Sep 30 at 2015 9:19 AM

2015-09-30T09:19:38-04:00

the first 2 weeks will test everything you have. You will want to quit. Make it 2 weeks and your mind and body will already snap to. After that, it's just homesickness. Live from chow to chow, and from Sunday to Sunday

Response by Cpl Aaron Golbeck made Sep 30 at 2015 9:35 AM

2015-09-30T09:35:56-04:00

Life in Marine Corp Boot Camp is a bit easier if you follow three rules 1. Be Loud! Always sound off! 2. Be fast! Always attempt to be first or go hard and fast at whatever you do! 3. You are now part of a team! Never think about your needs as a singular being if asking for something, be it a head call or anything else, ask permission for the whole platoon. Nearly 90% of the time you will get what is needed! Good luck and hope to see a new brother on the other side!

Response by Cpl Ray Frigerio made Sep 30 at 2015 9:40 AM

2015-09-30T09:40:05-04:00

Just LISTEN well, LEARN well and Study what you've learned. Live in the Moment, forget about your past and future. The DI's are not really assholes, they have a lot to teach you in a very short time, for that reason act quickly, talk almost never and try to use your spare time productively; You'll find that letters home aren't as important as marksmanship, drill or inspections. One last thing,Don't draw attention to yourself, even with a hard to pronounce last name, it can get you into extra trouble lol...

Response by GySgt Nick Boyles made Sep 30 at 2015 10:30 AM

2015-09-30T10:30:56-04:00

If you have time start getting into better shape, because no matter how fit you are, it isn't good enough. If provided start learning your general orders and essential subjects, that will put you ahead of the curve. Keep your mouth shut unless called on. Like Cargile said don't stick out. Try to soak in every moment because it will stick with you for life. Its been over forty years but I would serve my fellow Marines in an instant if called. Semper Fi!

Response by SSgt Robert Dant made Sep 30 at 2015 10:51 AM

2015-09-30T10:51:47-04:00

I loved my Marine boot camp and I went in during VN so it was extremely difficult, demanding, and long before we had any rules about what the DI could and could not do. However, before I went in my recruiter gave me some advice. It was simple and it worked for me. Cut your hair now (of course I had shoulder length hair). Idea is go into boot camp looking like someone who really wants to be a Marine. Second piece of advice was to always obey exactly what the DI commanded. Now that is hard but it does limit the number of times I was struck upside the head for not listening. Third piece of advice was to make sure my Dis knew I wanted to be a Marine and go do the job I was expected to do when I got out and do it all with enthusiasm - no complaining and volunteer for stuff that makes no sense.

My DIs actually liked me and even stuck up for me a couple of times.

I will add one thing - make sure your wife, girlfriend, or mommy does not send anything while in boot camp but letters and cards. Any items received can become weapons of harm.

Tell him good luck and thanks for serving.

Response by LCpl Dan McTiernan made Sep 30 at 2015 11:10 AM

2015-09-30T11:10:15-04:00

Good advice above. Keep in mind when going to the induction station that if the Marine Corps wants you to have something they will issue it to you. One individual brought a suitcase and we had helpful volunteers giving as all "required" ditty bags at the induction center. It was very entertaining as one individual attempted to explain the suitcase and couple of guys tried to insist that the ditty bags were required. Be sure not to have people send you poggy bait when in boot camp or send you perfumed letters. Fun to watch a recruit attempt to down 6 packets of dry kool aid. I enjoyed boot camp and wish I could do it again. As you are broken down and after failures, your DI will help you to achieve and that achievement will be one of the best accomplishments of your life. You know you made it before you graduate when the DI's begin to treat you with respect for your honor platoon achievement. Nothing is more satisfying then that moment when your DI calls you a Marine and shakes your hand welcoming you to the brotherhood. Then you get to got to 2nd ITR.

Response by Cpl Phil Hsueh made Sep 30 at 2015 12:10 PM

2015-09-30T12:10:31-04:00

A bit of advice that nobody else has mentioned is, never volunteer for anything, especially if you don't know what you're volunteering for. Of course, the first mistake is volunteering to join the Corps, but that's not really a mistake, is it? But in all seriousness, if your DIs ask for volunteers, and especially if they don't tell you what you're volunteering for, don't do it. When I was going through boot camp one of my DIs did that, he called for volunteers and a few suckers raised their hands. What did they get for volunteering? They got ITd on the quarter deck, that was it.

I'd also advise the lad to just keep in mind that no matter how sadistic and cruel his DIs might seem, they're not. They're just doing their job and part of that is to scream and yell at you because if you can't take that then chances are that there's no way you'd survive combat. He needs to make sure that he doesn't take it personally and not let it get to his head, just do what they say, as quickly, and as loudly (depending on what he's supposed to do) as he can.

One final word of advice I'd give, try to maintain a sense of humor, it will help him get through the rough patches. Just don't laugh at or in front of the DIs or tell jokes in their presence, not unless he really wants the extra attention they'll give him for it. But there will be the occasional moments of levity from time to time and maintaining a good sense of humor will help him appreciate it. I remember one time when me and this other recruit got called into the DI hut by the Juniors. He chatted us up a little bit then gave the other kid with me a cookie or something which startled him so much that he didn't know what to do, at which point the DI started yelling, "Chew! Chew! Chew!" and the poor kid started to chew for all he's worth, all the while scared to death because he had no idea why the DIs were feeding him. It was all I could do to keep from laughing out loud but I'm sure I had one hell of a grin on my face, and the DIs were laughing too, just having a little harmless fun with a recruit.

Response by Cpl Roudy Courser made Sep 30 at 2015 12:47 PM

2015-09-30T12:47:32-04:00

As I was saying my goodbyes to my parents before setting off for bootcamp I hugged my Mom, turned to my Dad, an ex-Marine, as he was shaking my hand he looked me in the eye and said, "make us proud". To be honest that is what got me through the tough times and there is no way I was going to face him without getting off the plane in uniform. You just have to figure out from the start, it is a game. Learn to play the game and the rest will come. It isn't easy, hell on earth but then you have to earn that title. The few, the proud.

Response by Cpl Roudy Courser made Sep 30 at 2015 12:48 PM

2015-09-30T12:48:21-04:00

Response by Cpl Arwen Bernard made Sep 30 at 2015 1:20 PM

2015-09-30T13:20:19-04:00

One main thing don't take anything to the butt. The Drill Instructors are there to break you down then build you back up as a unit. So everything is hard and expect ALOT of running. Learn to eat fast to.

Response by Cpl Richard Andrews made Sep 30 at 2015 5:19 PM

2015-09-30T17:19:42-04:00

1. Tell him to start getting in shape. That means push ups, sit ups, pull ups, and running. I can not stress to you how important it is.
2. Start reading MC history and know your General Orders. He will be ahead of the rest by doing so.
3. Give 110% at all times no matter what.
4. NEVER QUIT!! I'm not going to lie to you, it's not easy. Nothing in life worth achieving ever is. The Drill Instructor's job is to break him down both mentally and physically. He needs to get past the head games and focus on the goal. My dad was my hero, an honorable man who I wanted to make proud. There was no way in hell I wasn't going to graduate from Parris Island. That's what drove me. He needs to find something that motivates him to dig down deep. Something that won't allow him to quit. The pain he endures will be temporary, the title is forever.
Looking back on it, those were some of the best days of my life. I would do it all over again if I could.

Response by Sgt Schuyler Rossi made Sep 30 at 2015 6:41 PM

2015-09-30T18:41:29-04:00

You can be the "perfect" recruit but you will never have a perfect platoon dedicate yourself to making others around you better and lean on your fellow recruits in everything you do teamwork is your best friend. And remember if your struggling chances are so is your fellow recruit.

Response by Cpl Keith Ricks made Oct 1 at 2015 9:33 AM

2015-10-01T09:33:12-04:00

Start getting in shape. Run, do push ups, sit ups, and try to chin ups. The better shape he is in the easier.

Response by LCpl William Perry made Oct 1 at 2015 10:52 AM

2015-10-01T10:52:42-04:00

No matter how prepared you think you are, you are not. It is there job to break you down and rebuild you to earn the right to wear the eagle globe and anchor. Just stay focused and do your job and time will pass very quickly. Semper Fi and make us proud.

Response by Col Donald Davis made Oct 1 at 2015 11:05 AM

2015-10-01T11:05:47-04:00

Be in excellent physical condition.

Response by Cpl Imre Demech made Dec 3 at 2017 7:17 PM

2017-12-03T19:17:53-05:00

Get in shape physically & stay educated.

Response by LtCol Robert Quinter made Apr 5 at 2019 2:07 PM

2019-04-05T14:07:43-04:00

Keep your sense of humor (of course smile internally never so that it can be seen) and go with the program. They aren't authorized to kill you, although you might think they are trying. Your USMC property now and there is a lot of paperwork if they destroy you.