A young man ships to MCRD on 14AUG2017. Does he need an ARMY STRONG T-shirt, carry an ACU patterned ball-point, ARMY STRONG water bottle?

Just go all out and give him an Air Force T-Shirt.

He may have an interesting first few moments if he does. Doesn't matter what he wears though, because they will strip every hint of individuality from him systematically and in quick fashion from the moment the bus stops rolling. Any notions he may have of impressing his Drill Instructors will soon become fleeting reflections of better times. It could be worse though. When I went through Recruiter's School in San Diego 1984 they shared a story about another misinformed recruit. Seems a Recruiter from MA was having a hard month making quota so he got a tad creative with his sales pitch. The lad arrived at PI smartly dressed with a book satchel full of resource materials and school supplies. He was looking for the Registrar's Office so he could pick his classes while attending the USMC Community College of S. Carolina. "Close your eyes for a moment Johnny. You are on a scenic sunny island near Hilton Head. The palm trees are gently blowing in the breeze as you enter into your educational pursuits...." And we can figure out the rest. Thanks for sharing.

Id say yes, as well as "Army Strong" cut into his High and tight on the back of his head.