Marine Corps Parents Guide by Terry L Taylor Sr

This guide is designed to help answer some of your questions, relieve some of your anxiety, provide more information, prepare you for the coming months, offer special tips, provide graduation trip tips, and provide you additional valuable information resources.

This guide has information from multiple official United States Marine Corps web sites, publications, recruiters, and from a Fort Wayne , Indiana family who has recently been through 2 Marine Recruit boot camp experiences and Marine deployments.

Your son or daughter must earn the title of United States Marine. This requires your son or daughter to first focus on the demanding 13 week boot camp training.

Recruit training is a strict training program that builds Marines with the core values of the Marine Corps: honor, courage and commitment.

Your recruit will leave home as your son or daughter, and return 13 weeks later as a Marine.

Be proud, supportive and encouraging of your Marine Recruit son or daughter.

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Marine Band San Diego Performs at Liberty Formation, Morning Colors and Graduation Ceremonies

MARINE CORPS CORE VALUES

Honor

Courage

Commitment

MARINE CORPS MISSION

Every Marine is a rifleman and combat ready, willing and able to stand shoulder-to-shoulder in battle. Every Marine also has a specific area of expertise that contributes to the total force and mission readiness. Every Marine is committed to the Core Values in service to the country.

MARINE CORP PT (Physical Training)

Physical fitness for a Marine means:

o the maintenance of a healthy body,

o the endurance to withstand the stress of prolonged activity and adverse environment, and

o the capacity to endure the discomforts that accompany fatigue and the maintenance of combat effectiveness.

Marine Recruits start making physical fitness a major part of their life, if they don’t already, once they enlist in the Marine Corps by attending a weekly PT session at their Marine Corps Recruiting Sub-Station and train on their own.

Marine Recruits attend every weekly PT session. They arrive early, bring a filled water bottle with their name on it, and are ready to focus and work. They come with trimmed fingernails, clean shaven face, appropriate haircut, and wear a Marine t-shirt (Poolie), dark colored gym shorts and tennis shoes. And, it is extremely important to have a positive attitude, respect, commitment, pay attention, work hard, and follow orders.

A physically fit Marine Recruit and Marine will look better, feel better and perform better. PFT (physical fitness training) is a major factor in determining promotion eligibility, too.

BOOT CAMP (RECRUIT TRAINING PHASE I)

FACILITIES

There are two facilities for recruit training. They are called Marine Corps Recruit

Depot (MCRD). They are located in San Diego , California and Parris Island , South Carolina . All female recruits attend Parris Island .

WHAT TO TAKE TO BOOT CAMP

Clothes your new Marine Recruit wears: tennis shoes, socks, underwear, blue jeans, belt, eye glasses (if prescription) and plain T-shirt. Wallet with driver’s license, social security card, and $20 cash. NOTHING ELSE!

DEPARTURE FOR BOOT CAMP

Families say good bye and wish good luck to their Marine Recruit at their local Marine Corps Recruiting Sub-Station. The recruit travels by vehicle to the Processing Center before boarding a flight to Boot Camp paid for by the Marine Corps. Families do not know the flight information.

BOOT CAMP ARRIVAL TELEPHONE CALL

You may receive a phone call from your new Marine recruit once he arrives at the MCRD SD. This call will be the recruit reading a brief statement from a bank of phones and quickly hanging up. No time for chatting.

The second phone call will be about 3-4 weeks before graduation to check on flight plans, and this call will be limited to 2 minutes. Your Marine Recruit will need to know if they need to book their round trip flight home for leave or if you have done it already. It is suggested to discuss this prior to your Marine Recruit departing for boot camp or in the first few letters.

BOOT CAMP MAILING ADDRESS

Your recruit will mail you a letter with their mailing address, and you should

receive the letter about 2 weeks after they leave for Boot Camp. You can contact your recruiter on Tuesday of Boot Camp Week 2 to get the address.

All you have to do is insert the Battalion Number, Company Name, Platoon

Number, and Platoon Number in the +4 Zip Code.

Sample: Recruit Last Name, Full First Name + Middle Initial

X Bn, X Company, Platoon XXXX

36001 Midway Avenue

San Diego , CA 92140 -(Platoon Number)

Example: Recruit Taylor Jr., Terrence L.

2^nd BN, Golf CO, PLT 2155

36001 Midway Avenue

San Diego , CA 92140-2155

Your Marine Recruit will provide you the mailing address once they arrive at Parris Island if that is where they will spend 13 weeks for Boot Camp.

“Some people wonder all their lives if they’ve made a difference. The Marines don’t have that problem.”

Ronald Reagan, American 40^th US president (1981-89), 1911-2004

COMPUTERS, E-MAIL, FACEBOOK and WIRELESS PHONES

Marine Recruits and new Marines do not have access to computers for E-mail or

Facebook until they begin their MOS (military occupation school) training (Phase 3), and the bases have a library with computers for Marines to use for research, training, and correspondence. Wireless phones are prohibited during boot camp,

but are permitted after boot camp when on weekend liberty.

LETTERS

It takes about 4 days for letters to reach the MCRD, and it can take a few days

for the mail to get sorted and delivered to the drill instructor to deliver.

Ø Letters will be delivered as soon as possible based on training schedule.

Ø Send letters in a plain white envelope with no scents, stickers or pictures on the envelope.

Ø Send no care packages!

Ø Include pictures inside with your letters – your Marine recruit loves to get pictures from home of family, friends and events.

Ø Be positive, encouraging, motivating and supportive in your letters, and let your Marine Recruit know how proud you are of them.

Ø Get family, friends, boy friends, girl friends, spouses, school teachers, co-workers and classmates to send letters of encouragement, too.

Ø Don’t expect to get a letter from your Marine Recruit regularly.

Ø Marine Recruits have up to an hour each night and 4 hours on Sunday for reading mail, writing letters, doing laundry, studying, cleaning their gear and organizing their locker for inspection.

Ø If you don’t receive a letter from your recruit, don’t worry. He or she is busy training and focusing. They are, however, encouraged to write.

Ø Mail is intentionally held when the Marine Recruits are at weapons training (2 weeks) and The Crucible (1 week).

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TRAINING

The Marine Corps Recruit Depot (MCRD) San Diego is one of two birthplaces of

basically trained Marines. The other is Parris Island in South Carolina , and this is

where women recruits train. It is here where America ’s young men and women

are transformed into Marines. This shared, intense experience creates bonds of

camaraderie and standards of conduct so strong that Marines will let nothing

stand in their way. Thus the slogan “Semper Fi” (Always Faithful)!

Training is physically and mentally demanding, but morally as well. It requires constant focus, and recruits are instilled with the Marine Corps Core Values – Honor, Courage, and Commitment.

Every Marine says Boot Camp was the most difficult thing they ever had to do in their entire life, and they often second guess their decision. Encourage them!

Academic Training: subjects covered in classroom training include Marine

history, Core Values, Code of Conduct, Code of Ethics, Marine customs,

and life saving.

Confidence Course: 11 station obstacle course that builds strength and

confidence.

Combat Water Survival: develops confidence in the water wearing the

camouflage utility uniform.

Drill: this is the basic way in which platoons march (tallest to shortest in rear)

from place to place staying in step.

Family Day and Graduation: take place the last 2 days of Boot Camp and is

the first time the recruit and family physically meet after 13 weeks

of separation and contact only by mail. This is very, very emotional

for the families, and a remarkable difference in their new Marine is

noticed (stance, posture, manners, respect, physical tone, dress,

eating habits, and more). This is a time to celebrate achievement

and pride. More details follow based on experiences.

Field Training: introduces recruits to field living and conditions including

setting up a tent, field sanitation, and camouflage.

Forming: period following recruit receiving where drill instructors are

introduced and basics are taught on march and wearing uniforms.

IST (Initial Strength Test): Minimum passing standards are:

Male Recruits Female Recruits

2 Pull Ups 12 second Flexed-Arm Hang

44 Crunches in 2 minutes 44 Crunches in 2 minutes

1.5 mile run in 13:30 1.5 mile run in 15:00

Marksmanship Training: learn fundamentals of marksmanship with M-16A2

service rifle over 2 weeks at Camp Pendleton in multiple positions

and from distances of 200, 300 and 500 yards.

Marine Week: final week of training is a transitional period preparing for final

graduation requirement, Battalion Commander’s inspection, and

rehearsals for graduation. This is where the recruit is now a Marine

and Drill Instructors are referred to by their rank.

Martial Arts: basic self defense training.

Physical Fitness Test (Day 60): The minimum passing standards are:

Male Recruits Female Recruits

3 Pull Ups 15 second Flexed-arm Hang

50 Crunches in two minutes 50 Crunches in two minutes

3.0 mile run in 28:00 3.0 mile run in 31:00

Physical Training: “PT” involves progressive training building obstacle courses,

circuit courses, mile marches, and strength development. New recruits

should work on sit ups, pull ups, push ups, and mile runs at home.

Recruit Receiving: first stop when arriving at boot camp involving haircut,

initial gear issue (uniforms, toiletries and letter writing supplies),

full dental screening, full medical screening, full optical screening,

and initial strength test. Recruits pay for this from their account.

The Crucible: this is the final test every recruit must go through to become a

Marine near the end of boot camp testing them physically, mentally

and morally over 54 hours including food and sleep deprivation and

48 miles of marching while facing 29 problem-solving exercises at 36 different stations. The recruits will have 3 ready-to-eat (MREs) meals,

and will carry 45 pounds and their M16A2 service rifle.

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BOOT CAMP FAMILY DAY AND GRADUATION DAY

This is a special 2 day event. Thursday is Family Day and Friday is Graduation Day.

You’ll need to travel on Wednesday and Saturday. Go! Stand with your new Marine!

AIR TRAVEL

Upon the completion of the Graduation Day ceremony your new Marine will have

a copy of his/her orders for travel. The orders must be adhered to emphatically.

Any travel costs during the 10-day leave after boot camp is the new Marine’s responsibility.

Many families want to travel with their new Marine when leaving the MCRD (Depot) after graduation. To assure you are traveling on the same flight(s), parents and Marine Recruit have to coordinate on dates, times, airlines, flights, and who is paying for the new Marine’s airline ticket.

Parents may arrange for their new Marine to travel home with them. If parents purchase the round trip ticket, they must mail a hard copy of the travel plans to their Marine Recruit at boot camp. Some new Marines reimburse their parents for their air travel ticket, but that is a family decision.

Search around for the best deal to and from San Diego , CA or Savannah , GA. Your return trip cannot depart San Diego until after 2:00 p.m. San Diego time and the San Diego airport is a 20 minute drive from the MCRD. Savannah is the nearest airport for Parris Island (60 miles or about a 90 minute drive).

All times on airline tickets are the local airport times.

Make sure your Marine takes advantage of the USO facilities at the airport when he/she checks in or is waiting to fly out.

There is no room for late flights, missed connections, or late arrival to the School of Infantry (SOI) or Military Combat Training (MCT). Therefore, when planning return travel for SOI or MCT make sure to provide enough lag time in between when they arrive and when they must report. You need to provide ample lag time in case of inclement weather, cancelled flight(s), or travel delays (especially during the winter months and around holidays). You never, never, ever want your Marine to report late.

TSA security will carefully check your new Marine’s driver license at the airport

Security checkpoint. Your new Marine will have shaven hair at boot camp, and their driver’s license picture most likely doesn’t look like them after boot camp. The new Marine may want to get a new driver’s license with a current picture when home on leave. Marines should use their military ID for check in, boarding passes, and security screening when possible.

It is suggested that parents and family travel light with a carry on travel bag with 3 changes of clothes – Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Thus, no luggage to check! Travelling light leaves room for the souvenirs, too! You can place the extra souvenirs in your new Marine’s sea bag.

LODGING

Search around for the best hotel deals near Parris Island ( Beaufort , SC ) or in San Diego and close to the MCRD. The MCRD Graduation Guide your recruit should mail you the second week of training will have a list of nearby hotels. You can also check the MCRD web site for nearby hotels or do a Google search on your computer for Beaufort , SC or San Diego , CA hotels.

There are many hotels in San Diego . Be careful. You may find yourself somewhere you don't want to be. If you would like my OPINION, my home phone number is (816) 436-7104. My e-mail address is usmcmaxinkc@aol.com.

The MCRD Parris Island does have temporary quarters on base at the Osprey Inn. Reservations can be made 15 days prior to the graduation date by calling 843-228-2744 and the current rate.

The MCRD San Diego does have temporary quarters on base in Building 625 adjacent to Gate 4 and behind the Base Exchange. Rates are reasonable: $45-$75 per night. Call 619-524-4401 to make reservations 30 days in advance.

Reservations should be made at least 4 weeks in advance due to limited rooms.

RENTAL CAR

We got the best deal for an intermediate car with air conditioning from Thrifty Rent A Car with unlimited mileage. They have a free airport courtesy shuttle, and have a gas station next door. Rental car courtesy shuttles are across from the baggage claim area at the San Diego International airport.

The rental car permitted us the freedom to explore the area when not on base, and to get to the airport after graduation without having to rely on shuttles or expensive taxi cabs. The rental car came in real handy as our recruit brought 2 large sea bags (large duffle bags) weighing about 70 pounds each, duffle (gym) bag, and uniform garment bag. They wear their uniform home if traveling home on Friday. This was more convenient than taxi cabs and shuttle buses.

If you fly to Savannah you will need to rent a car since they have no shuttles to

Parris Island and the cost of a taxi would be prohibitive.

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MCRD San Diego from the San Diego International Airport with the parade deck flag pole visible in the center.

ACCESS TO THE MCRD (THURSDAY and FRIDAY)

· You’ll want to arrive early each day at the MCRD to avoid long lines at the gate.

· All vehicles must enter the MCRD San Diego through Gate #5 ( Washington Street , exit off I-5) or the Main Gate at the MCRD Parris Island (follow the signs).

· All vehicles, packages, handbags and luggage are subject to search at the gate prior to being admitted on board the base by military police.

· All occupants of vehicles entering the base must be prepared to present a photo ID (driver’s license, military ID or school ID) when entering the MCRD.

· The vehicle driver will need to show proof of vehicle registration and insurance.

· Occupants of all vehicles must be restrained by a seat belt while entering and on the MCRD, and the use of wireless phones while driving on the MCRD is prohibited.

· The speed limits on the MCRD roads are enforced.

· Parking is available around the perimeter of the parade deck.

· The MCRD Graduation Parking Pass with sticker must be displayed at all times in the driver’s side corner of the front windshield. Your recruit will mail this to parents during the second week of training. It is in the brochure. If you do not receive this, don’t worry! Tell the gate sentry that you are attending Family Day and Graduation Day, and you did not receive a pass. They’ll let you in!

HELPFUL MCRD TIPS

· It is the Marine recruit who decides who they mail their graduation packet to, and the MCRD personnel cannot inform you of the mailing status of a Grad Packet or re-issue one.

· Smoking is permitted on the MCRD in the courtyard by the ash trays only.

· Do not walk on or across the asphalt parade deck or grass at any time. Please walk around the perimeter of the deck (Shepherd Field at MCRD San Diego).

· For your safety use the sidewalks. Do not walk in the street or on the grass.

· Take sun block and apply before sitting in the bleachers for liberty formation and graduation especially in the summer months.

· Take a digital camera and camcorder with fully charged batteries so that you can capture the sights and lifetime memories.

· Take 4 bag (luggage) tags with you with your Marine’s name, home address, and phone on them to place on their 4 bags for the airlines – saves time at the airport. Put them on the bags before you leave for the airport Saturday.

· The MCRD San Diego Museum Gift Shop (opens at 8 a.m.) has the best prices for souvenirs, but the PX (opens at 9 a.m.) in the food court has a much bigger selection of Marine apparel.

· If you have a question, ASK someone!

· Relax and enjoy your visit on board the MCRD!

BASE DRESS

· Wear comfortable walking shoes as you do a lot of walking.

· This is not a fashion show. So, dress comfortable. Business casual is best.

· Some families had T-shirts made and they wore them on Thursday. They had on the back of the T-shirt their Marine’s last name, Company, and Platoon number. Check out the EGA store on the MarineParents.com web site.

· Show your Marine Corps pride and preorder your recruit’s battalion and Company T-shirts, jackets and such, and wear it on Family Day and Graduation Day from the web site. Allow 3-4 weeks for delivery.

· Casual. Be comfortable. Wear comfortable walking shoes!

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FAMILY DAY and GRADUATION DAY TRIP CHECK LIST

TASK WHEN TO DO

Start Saving Money and Planning Your Trip 1^st Week of Boot Camp

Receive Your Recruit’s Boot Camp Mailing Address 2^nd Week of Boot Camp

o Contact Your Recruiter for Your Recruit’s Address

o Share Address and Start Writing Letters Daily/Weekly

Determine Drive or Fly to Family Day/Graduation Day 3^rd Week of Boot Camp

Order Marine and Graduation Items (optional) 5^th Week of Boot Camp

Request Time Off Work 6^th Week of Boot Camp

Book and Buy Airline Tickets 8^th Week of Boot Camp

Book Hotel Reservation 8^th Week of Boot Camp

Book Rental Car Reservation (If Needed) 8^th Week of Boot Camp

Arrange for Care of Pets (If Any) 8^th Week of Boot Camp

Mail Copy of Recruit’s Airline Ticket to Your Recruit 9^th Week of Boot Camp

Get Car Serviced (If Traveling By Car) 11^th Week of Boot Camp

Hold Mail Form Filed at Post Office (If Applicable) 12^th Week of Boot Camp

Hold Newspaper (If Applicable) 12^th Week of Boot Camp

View San Diego Platoon Photos (Friday night) 12^th Week of Boot Camp

Leave Itinerary and Contact Information with Family 12^th Week of Boot Camp

Bank to Get Cash for Trip (Monday) 13^th Week of Boot Camp

Print Boarding Passes If Traveling by Plane (Tuesday) 13^th Week of Boot Camp

Pack (Tuesday) 13^th Week of Boot Camp

o Digital Camera and Charger

o Wireless Phone and Charger

o Driver’s License or State Approved Photo ID

o Sun Block and Sunglasses

o Cash and Credit Cards

o Family Day and Graduation Day Itinerary/Schedules

o MCRD Parking Pass (if received in mail from your Recruit)

o 3 Days’ Clothes and Toiletries

Secure House (Tuesday) 13^th Week of Boot Camp

Travel Day (Wednesday) 13^th Week of Boot Camp

Family Day at MCRD (Thursday) 13^th Week of Boot Camp

Graduation Day at MCRD (Friday) 13^th Week of Boot Camp

WEDNESDAY (YOUR TRAVEL DAY)

Travel day to San Diego or Parris Island .

Once you arrive in San Diego or Parris Island it gives you a chance to drive or walk around, check out ocean, beaches, scenery, sights, and simply relax.

It is better to leave early and arrive early than leave late and get delayed by

bad weather or other travel challenges possibly missing Family Day. Think of it as a mini-vacation and you have a little time to adjust and prepare for Family Day and Graduation Day!

Keep this in mind for all Marine events are punctual!

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Family Day Motivational Run

MOTO RUN

This will be your FIRST opportunity to try to see your new Marine on Family Day.

The Moto Run on Thursday (Family Day) is at 7:00 a.m. at Parris Island and at 10:30 a.m. at San Diego .

The Marines will cordon off areas labeled with your new Marine’s platoon number. For the best photos and opportunities to see your new Marine up close, remain with your new Marine’s platoon number.

They line up by platoon and height – tall in front (your left) and short in back (your right). If your Marine wears glasses, he/she will be wearing the Marine issued “coke bottle” glasses.

Ask your Marine Recruit are they in the front, middle or back when marching and running as this will help you know where to try to stand and look for them!

This is an ideal time for a video camera and to be early to be in the front row!

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Family Day Liberty Ceremony Formation

THURSDAY ( SAN DIEGO FAMILY DAY)

Time Activity

5:00 a.m. Up, Shower, Dress and Eat Breakfast

7:00 a.m. Depart for MCRD (Use Gate #5)

MCRD Security Check Point

All individuals must show photo ID.

All vehicles and bags will be thoroughly checked.

7:30 a.m. Watch our new Marines practice graduation on the parade deck

This is really impressive!

Stay off the parade deck!

8:30 a.m. Museum Gift Shop and Visit with Other Parents

Buy souvenirs and secure them in your vehicle trunk

9:00 a.m. Series Chief Drill Instructor Welcome and Instructions

This is in the courtyard outside the Museum.

10:00 a.m. Motivational (Moto) Run

Cheer ‘Em All On and Try to Find Your Marine!

Great opportunity for video!

11:30 a.m. Buy your Marine’s platoon pictures (about $25)

Go to the tent at the food court.

12:00 p.m. Bleachers by Parade Deck (Shepherd Field) for Liberty Formation

Sit by Platoon, and they have platoon signs posted.

Leave the front row for the disabled, elderly, families

with infants in strollers and those in wheelchairs.

1:00 p.m. Liberty with your new Marine (1:00 p.m. San Diego time)

Time for lots of hugs, love, tears and pride!

Your new Marine must remain on the Depot.

1:30 p.m. Go immediately to the Bay View Restaurant for lunch ($13 each)

Walk fast – quicker than the shuttle or driving.

5:00 p.m. Free time to explore base, visit, and call home to talk with family

Let your Marine call home to chat briefly with family

unable to attend

Some Marines like to post a family picture and status

update on their Facebook using dad or mom’s Smartphone!

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Summer Graduation Uniform (Short Sleeves)

THURSDAY ( PARRIS ISLAND FAMILY DAY)

Time Activity

4:30 a.m. Up, Shower, Dress and Eat Breakfast

5:30 a.m. Depart for MCRD

MCRD Security Check Point at Main Gate

All individuals must show photo ID.

All vehicles and bags will be thoroughly checked.

7:00 a.m. Motivational Run

8:00 a.m. Marine Corps Exchange Opens

Do your souvenir shopping

8:00 a.m. Museum Opens

See the history of the Marine Corps

8:30 a.m. Visitor and Family Check In at the Douglas Visitor Center

9:30 a.m. Battalion Commander’s Brief

9:50 a.m. Liberty Ceremony

Your new Marine must remain on the Depot

10:00 a.m. Barracks Open House

10:00 a.m. Observation of Events at Leatherneck Square

2:30 p.m. Final Hugs as your Marine needs to return to their barracks

3:00 p.m. Liberty Ends

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Winter Graduation Uniform (Long Sleeves)

The Platoon led by the Platoon Honor Man (dress blues) prepares for the graduation ceremony

at 7:00 a.m. San Diego time on Graduation Day after dropping

off their sea bag, garment bag and duffle bag in the platoon’s secured storage area near the bleachers.

FRIDAY ( SAN DIEGO GRADUATION DAY)

Time Activity

6:00 a.m. Up, Shower, Dress and Eat Breakfast

7:00 a.m. Depart for MCRD (Use Gate #5)

MCRD Security Check: show driver license and vehicle inspection

7:30 a.m. Watch Marines place gear in secure area and march to briefing

(see the pictures on page 13)

7:45 a.m. Colors Ceremony

At the west end of parade deck and very impressive!

8:30 a.m. Museum Gift Shop

Get your last minute souvenirs you may have missed.

9:30 a.m. Bleachers Seating at Parade Deck for Graduation

Seating is by Platoon, and seats fill quickly!

Be early to get a good seat.

One (1) program per family when they are distributed.

10:00 a.m. Graduation Ceremony

11:30 a.m. Graduation is over and you are out of there!

FRIDAY ( PARRIS ISLAND GRADUATION DAY)

Time Activity

5:30 a.m. Up, Shower, Dress and Eat Breakfast

6:30 a.m. Depart for MCRD

MCRD Security Check: show driver license and vehicle inspection

7:45 a.m. Colors Ceremony

In front of Barrow Hall and very impressive!

8:15 a.m. Bleachers Seating at Depot’s Peatross Parade Deck

9:00 a.m. Graduation Ceremony

10:30 a.m. Graduation is over and you are out of there!

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Graduation Day Reviewing Parade

CONGRATULATIONS! Your son/daughter has earned the title United States Marine!

AFTER GRADUATION ( SAN DIEGO )

You should visit local attractions on Friday afternoon after graduation. You can

get discounted admission tickets at the Ticket Office in the Food Court at the

MCRD on Family Day or Graduation Day. Marines in uniform and presenting

military ID get FREE admission to the USS Midway Aircraft Museum (2 hour

tour) for themselves and their guests.

SOUVENIR IDEAS TO BUY FOR FAMILY AND RELATIVES

Buy Challenge coins for your new Marine. Buy hats, hoodies, Marine Band CDs, polo shirts, stuffed animals, sweatpants, sweatshirts, T-shirts, and US Marine flag for family and relatives. If your Marine buys something, you will need to buy it for them as their debit card won’t work in gift shop.

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USS Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum

CHECKED BAGGAGE AT AIRPORT

§ Your new Marine will have 4 bags (2 sea bags, garment bag and gym

bag) to check at the airport.

§ Marines have the checked bag fee waived by most airlines when they use their military ID at the airline flight check in at the ticket counter.

§ All bags must have a luggage tag and TSA security guidelines still apply.

TRAVEL ASSISTANCE

Because no new Marine should stand alone on Family Day and Graduation Day

there is a wonderful organization that helps parents on limited incomes attend

their Marine Recruit’s graduation with a grant. You may fill out the application

after your Recruit has successfully completed his or her 8^th week of training, and

you must complete the application on-line and fax supporting documentation.

Grants vary depending on available funds, and the average grant is approximately $250. If you do not need assistance, please consider making a

donation to help another family attend graduation. You can find the application

at http://usmcgrad.org.

GRADUATION PHOTOS AND VIDEO

During boot camp recruits will have their photos taken with their platoon as well

as individually in their dress blue uniform and these can be purchased on Family

Day. A video of graduation is also produced that includes footage from each

battalion. The MCRD San Diego short video appears on-line a week prior to

graduation so you can see your Marine Recruit. The link is:

http://www.recruitparents.com/bootcamp/photos.asp

ONCE A MARINE. ALWAYS A MARINE.

MCRD PHONE DIRECTORY PARRIS ISLAND SAN DIEGO

Billeting (on base lodging for graduation) 843-228-2744 619-524-4401

Graduation Information 800-826-7503 619-725-6400

Recruit Photo/Video Sales NA 619-296-3840

Tickets and Tours Office NA 619-725-6343

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MCRD San Diego main flag pole at center of parade deck before graduation.

This view is from the bleachers used by families for liberty formation and graduation.

GRADUATION LEAVE (10 DAYS – DAY 1 IS THE SATURDAY AFTER GRADUATION)

DAILY SCHEDULE AT HOME ON LEAVE

§ Your new Marine should run 2 miles every morning, and do 15 minutes of exercises to keep in shape. The drill instructors tell you and the Marines this during Family Day!

§ Your new Marine should participate in the recruiting station’s weekly PT.

§ Your new Marine should keep the same schedule as at boot camp – get up early and go to bed early. The 3 hour time difference for MCRD San Diego graduates is a challenge.

§ Your new Marine should eat good foods. Fast food and pop are OK as long as it is limited. Don’t be surprises, though, if your new Marine pigs out on pizza and fast foods when home instead of mom’s home cooking!

§ Your new Marine should do something different each day: visit recruiter, visit high school alma mater, visit former job, visit friends, visit former clubs, and be recruiting new Marines.

§ Your new Marine should spend at least 1 hour each day with family for family time.

RECRUITER ASSISTANCE

Some new Marines receive additional liberty after boot camp to work as a recruiter’s assistant in the local recruiting office. You cannot request it. New Marines will know if they are a recruiter assistant when they receive their orders the Wednesday before graduation. Recruiter assistant is 10 days and Marines generally work 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. visiting high schools, malls, Lazer X, and other places looking for recruits, and they do the weekly PT with the poolees!

PACKING FOR MCT/SOI (TRAINING PHASE II)

Your new Marine takes everything they brought home back with them. The new Marine can take a wireless phone to MCT (military combat training) or SOI (school of infantry) with them. The new Marine cannot take a notebook computer or iPad – they get locked up. The cover (hat) needs to be protected when packing it. Get things packed at least a day early so as not to be last minute and forgetting something.

RETURN FLIGHT FOR MCT/SOI

If you have to rebook your Marine’s return flight from leave, the airline change

fee can be waived if they have their orders: officer signed by, phone, and date.

Parris Island Marines will go to Camp Lejeune ( North Carolina ) for MCT/SOI.

Jacksonville ( Ellis Airport ) has shuttle service for about $60 to Camp Lejeune and is serviced by Delta Airlines and US Airways only.

EARLY ARRIVAL LODGING FOR MCT/SOI

Camp Lejeune and Camp Pendleton will provide the Marines reporting to

MCT/SOI one day early a place to sleep. It will not be in the squad bay they will

be assigned for MCT/SOI. Some Marines, though, have opted to get a motel

room in Jacksonville or San Diego at their own expense and take the first bus

(9 a.m. San Diego time) on report day to Camp Pendleton or a taxi to Camp

Lejeune.

MCT (Military Combat Training) or SOI ( School of Infantry ) TRAINING (PHASE II)

The second phase of Marine training fine tunes and sharpens the freshly learned military skills and knowledge. The Marine will be in either the Infantry Training Battalion or

Marine Combat Training Battalion. After this a 56 (ITB) or 29 (MCT) day training program your Marine reports to the third phase training at the MOS school they selected to learn the trade they are expected to perform for the Marine Corps. This could be a

third Marine base. Marines, don’t be late for your report date and time per your orders!

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Series Chief Drill Instructor addresses families on Family Day

in the Courtyard before the Motivational Run at MCRD San Diego

MOS – MILITARY OCCUPATION SCHOOL (TRAINING PHASE III)

Once a Marine completes their MCT/SOI training (generally at Camp Pendleton in California or Camp Lejeune in North Carolina ) they are scheduled to report to their MOS ( Military Occupation School ). This school will be 4 weeks to 52 weeks based on the occupation they signed up for at the time of enlistment. This training most likely will be at a different military installation, and they will arrange their own travel with the assistance of their MCT/SOI training instructors per their orders. They can have their laptop computer now!

FLEET (JOB ASSIGNMENT at PDS: PERMANENT DUTY STATION)

Once your Marine completes their occupation training they will receive orders for their fleet. This could be Camp Lejeune in North Carolina , Camp Pendleton in California , Hawaii , Quantico in Virginia , or Okinawa in Japan . They make their own travel arrangements with the assistance of their MOS training instructors.

DEPLOYMENT

If and when your Marine receives deployment orders, they will usually earn 10 days pre-deployment leave to visit family, secure all personal items and make other arrangements (power of attorney, will, car payments, car insurance payments, car storage and so on).

Your Marine will give you their FPO mailing address while on pre-deployment leave.

Your Marine can receive mail and care packages while they are deployed subject to the

United States Postal regulations, military regulations and customs.

It is recommended to obtain from the post office the FREE Priority Mail Large Flat Rate

box for shipping care packages, and the postage is $12.95 per flat rate box. Every care package requires the customs form 2976-A, and this can be obtained from the post office or on-line at the United States Post Office web site. On-line is best!

Care packages take generally 2-4 weeks for delivery to deployed military, and are subject to inspection by customs. Care package contents will vary from Marine to Marine, and will vary based on the deployment type (base camp, forward operating base or Naval ship).

Deployed Marines may have access periodically to a satellite phone or pay phone (international calling card) to call home or to a computer to send E-mails home.

For security reasons the Marines are not to divulge their specific location. So, don’t ask!

RED FRIDAY

Wear RED ON FRIDAY to support our Marines. It’s a military thing!

OPERATIONAL SECURITY (OPSEC)

OPSEC is keeping potential adversaries from discovering critical Department of Defense information. It protects military operations – planned, in progress and those completed. Success depends on secrecy and surprise so that the military can accomplish the mission more quickly and with less risk. Enemies of freedom want this information and they will seek any and all potential sources to get it.

Critical information even though it may not be secret includes:

1. Detailed information about the mission of assigned units.

2. Details concerning locations, dates and times of unit deployments.

3. Personnel transactions that occur in large numbers (examples: pay information, power of attorney, wills or deployment information).

4. References to trend in unit morale or personnel problems.

5. Details concerning security procedures.

Be careful on social media postings, chat rooms, message boards, telephone, text messages and with e-mails. There may be times when your Marine cannot talk about the specifics of his or her job, movement, locations, activities and so on. It is like “don’t ask” and “don’t tell”!

If anyone, especially a foreign national, persistently seeks information, notify your Family Readiness Officer (FRO) and/or local Marine recruiting office immediately.

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GENERAL INFORMATION

AIRPORT MILITARY ESCORT GATE PASS

When families take a Marine to the airport to catch a flight all goodbyes are said prior to the TSA Security Checkpoint. However, when your Marine checks in at the airport you can request at the airline ticket counter a military escort gate pass from the airline. You will need to show your photo ID in order to get the pass, and will need to show the ID when you clear TSA security just like any ticketed flight passenger. This pass will enable you to escort your Marine to the gate to wait until boarding the plane. This is not publicized, and we learned of it from a TSA security guard! Do it! There’s no cost! It is fantastic!!!

DENTAL, HEALTH and OPTICAL PROGRAMS

The military has an excellent health, dental, medical and optical program for

Marines (and married Marine dependents).

EMERGENCIES

If a message is required to notify a recruit of an emergency situation (death or serious injury of a family member) at any time during recruit training, please contact your local American Red Cross to have an official message sent to MCRD. In order to process the message quickly, please provide the recruit’s name,

social security number, battalion, company, and platoon.

PARENTS, DO …

· Write (a lot) and mail letters to your Marine Recruit at boot camp.

· Get your family, relatives and friends to write and mail letters.

· Be positive, encouraging, upbeat and motivating in every letter.

· Let your recruit know how proud you are of them and their decision.

· Plan your Family Day and Graduation Day trip early and make your reservations (lodging and travel) no later than 8 weeks after your recruit leaves for boot camp. Research your travel, lodging, flight and rental care options for the best deals.

· Arrive at the airport 2 hours before your flight for check in and security.

· Reference the various Marine Corps web sites.

· Sign up for the MarineParents.com web site FREE e-mail newsletter.

· Be a proud Marine parent!

PARENTS, DO NOT …

· Worry. Your son/daughter will be very well cared for and will receive the best training in the world.

· Send care packages to your recruit at boot camp.

· Miss Family Day or Graduation Day as it will be one of the proudest moments of your life.

· Refer to your Marine Recruit as “Marine” until Family Day. Your son or daughter has to earn the title “Marine” by successfully completing the 13 week boot camp.

· Walk on the parade deck at the MCRD.

PAY

Each recruit will enroll in a direct deposit program after they arrive at Boot

Camp where their weekly pay is deposited. They receive a VISA debit card to make their purchases with (toiletries, uniforms, bus tickets, and airfare). They buy everything from a specific store at boot camp that is not issued!

USO

The San Diego International Airport has the largest USO in the United States . The Marine can take a shower, change clothes, store their gear while they go get something to eat, and catch their bus to Camp Pendleton from the USO. The bus ticket costs about $15. Most major airports, though, have a USO in the terminal for our military to use between flights. The USO facilities are made possible by donations and contributions.

VACATION

Each Marine will be afforded 30 days of paid vacation per year – 2.5 days earned each month. This is another great benefit! Vacation is called LEAVE, and is subject to approval by the Marine’s chain of command.

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Graduation Day – One of the Proudest Days of your Life

WEB SITES (INFORMATIONAL RESOURCES)

Save as your Favorites on your computer. Refer to them for lots of great information!

Read anything you can find about recruit training and the Marine Corps.

American Red Cross

Emergency contact assistance

http://www.redcross.org

Blue Star Mothers

Non-partisan and non-political organization of military mothers

http://www.bluestarmothers.org

http://www.fortwayneareabluestarmothers.com

Boot Camp Graduation (non-USMC site)

Max Beerup is very informative, knowledgeable and helpful!

http://www.usmcgradsandiego.org

Boot Camp Graduation (non-USMC site)

By Gretchen Miller

http://www.usmcgradparrisisland.org

Camp Lejeune , NC (Pronounced “Luh-Jern” – not “Le-June”)

MCT/SOI Training after Boot Camp, MOS and Fleet

http://www.lejeune.usmc.mil

Camp Pendleton , CA

MCT/SOI Training after Boot Camp, MOS and Fleet

http://www.ccp.usmc.mil

Marine Corps Recruiting Depot (MCRD) Parris Island , SC

Boot Camp

http://www.mcrdpi.usmc.mil

Marine Corps Recruiting Depot (MCRD) San Diego , CA

Boot Camp

http://www.mcrdsd.usmc.mil

Marine Toys for Tots Foundation

Fort Wayne has local organization operated by Marine Reserves

http://www.ft-wayne-in.toysfortots.org

Marine Wives

A great resource for spouses of Marines

http://www.marinewives.com

MCRD San Diego Recruit Grad Gear

Allow 3-4 weeks for order delivery

http://www.mccsmcrd.com

National Museum of the Marine Corps

Quantico , VA

http://www.usmcmuseum.org

Operation Care Package

Not-for-Profit organization supporting our deployed Heros

http://www.operationcarepackages.org

Ship It APO

Layperson’s guide to overseas deployed military mail and shipments

http://www.shipitapo.com

United States Marine Corps

Official USMC Web Site with a Parents Section

http://www.usmc.mil

U. S. Marine Corps Gear

Official Marine Corps Clothing and Products

http://www.grunt.com

USO

Official Military Service Organization with locations at major airports

http://www.uso.org

MARINE RECRUITER

Obtain the name, rank and contact number of your son or daughter’s Marine recruiter from your son or daughter. Contact your recruiter to get your questions answered.

The Few. The Proud. The Marines.

Marine Recruits and families, we are proud of you and

thank you for your sacrifices and serving our Country with courage, honor and commitment!

MARINE TERMS

These are terms that your Marine Recruit begins using once at Boot Camp.

Marine Corps Motivational Sayings

Semper Fi Short for Semper Fidelis (Latin for “Always Faithful”)

Ooh Rah! Motivational statement in acknowledgement or agreement

General Terms

AA Armed Forces America (processing center in Miami , FL )

AE Armed Forces Europe (processing center in New York , NY )

AP Armed Forces Pacific (processing center in San Francisco , CA )

APO Army Post Office

FOB Forward Operating Base

FPO Fleet Post Office

FRO Family Readiness Officer

MCT Military Combat Training

MOS Military Occupation School

PDS Permanent Duty Station

SOI School of Infantry Training

Terms about the Depot

MCRD Marine Corps Recruiting Depot (also called “The Depot”)

PI Parris Island (MCRD PI)

SD San Diego (MCRD SD)

PLT Platoon

DI Drill Instructor

SDI Senior Drill Instructor

CO Commanding Officer

CG Commanding General

CMC Commandant of the Marine Corps

Training Terminology

IST Initial Strength Test

PFT Physical Fitness Test

PT Physical Training

Aft Back

Blouse Uniform Shirt

Bow Front

Chow Food

Cover Uniform Headgear (must always be worn outside)

Guideon Platoon Flag

Hatch Door

Head Bath Room

Ink Stick Pen

Lead Stick Pencil

Mess Hall Cafeteria or Dining Room

Moon Beam Flashlight

Port Left

Porthole Window

Rack Bed

Rain Room Shower

Squad Bay Barracks (where they sleep)

Starboard Right

Weapon M16A2 (NEVER called it a gun!)

MARINE HYMN LYRICS

From the halls of Montezuma to the shores of Tripoli ,

We fight our country’s battles in the air, on land and sea.

First to fight for right and freedom, and to keep our honor clean.

We are proud to claim the title of United States Marines.

Our flags unfurled to every breeze from dawn to setting sun.

We have fought in every clime and place where we could take a gun.

In the snow of far-off northern lands and in sunny tropic scenes.

You will find us always on the job the United States Marines.

MARINES NICKNAME

Devil Dogs

MARINE RANKS (Non-Commissioned Ranks)

No Chevron marine_corps_recruit_parents_guide_38

Private Private First Class Lance Corporal Corporal Sergeant Staff Sergeant

E-1 E-2 E-3 E-4 E-5 E-6

PVT PFC LCpl CPL Sgt SSgt

marine_corps_recruit_parents_guide_42 marine_corps_recruit_parents_guide_46

Gunnery Master First Master Gunnery Sergeant Sergeant Major

Sergeant Sergeant Sergeant Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps

E-7 E-8 E-8 E-9 E-9 E-9

GySgt Msgt 1SG MGySgt SgtMaj SgtMajMC

NATIONAL MUSEUM OF THE MARINE CORPS

You can now experience the National Museum of the Marine Corps without traveling to

Quantico , VA with the Virtual Experience!

This new, interactive virtual environment was introduced in August 2011 and now serves as the gateway for Marines, families and visitors from all around the world to see the museum from the comfort of your home on your home desktop or laptop computer (or from your public library).

Learn about the Marine Corps’ proud heritage, experience boot camp, view historic footage, zoom in on special exhibits, listen to oral recordings, and more!

Go to http://www.virtualusmcmuseum.com

BLUE STAR SERVICE FLAG

The Blue Star Service Flag has been a symbol of American military service for more than

90 years. Families with members in the service may display these flags. The flag itself is

a white field with a red border, and a blue star. The blue star symbolizes the family member on active duty. If a serviceman dies, the blue star is replaced by a gold star. A

single banner may have up to five stars on it signifying that up to five separate family

members are on active duty. The flag may be purchased from Grunt.com.

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marine_corps_recruit_parents_guide_51

Colors Ceremony – Graduation Day – West End of Parade Deck – 7:45 a.m.

Show your American and Marine Pride – Attend the Colors Ceremony!

Thank you Marine Recruiters and Drill Instructors for taking

our boys and girls and making them Marines!

MARINE RECRUITS, REMEMBER TO …

· Ask Questions

· Be Confident

· Be Determined

· Be Disciplined

· Be Honest

· Be Loud

· Be Positive

· Be Ready

· Have Fun

· Keep Organized

· Maintain Your Conditioning and Fitness

· Plan Ahead

· Stay Focused

CONCLUSION

This Marine Recruit Parents Guide has been prepared by a Proud Dad of 2 Marine Recruits (June 2008 and September 2009) based on personal experiences and with the assistance of his cousin Retired Master Gunnery Sergeant Doyt “Dutch” Akom, Jr. (30 year Boot Camp Drill Instructor at Parris Island) with the intent of providing more information, insight, resources, suggestions and tips for parents of new Marine Recruits.

My wife (Lori) and I were just like you a few years ago with our first son going to become a Marine. We had so many questions, and we sought as much information as we could. We wished, though, that we had a local family from Fort Wayne or Indiana who could have given us tips and information to help reduce our anxiety and help us through Boot Camp, Family Day and Graduation Day.

When our second son enlisted we felt very comfortable with the path ahead. I continue to ask questions and constantly do research to update this Marine Recruit Parents Guide.

My wife and I are very, very proud our 2 sons joined the U. S. Marine Corps. We know this experience has been challenging for them and our family, and continues as such.

We witnessed a remarkable difference in TJ and Chris when we saw them at Family Day, and we are so pleased with their decision to become a Marine. We asked each of them after Boot Camp graduation if they had it all over to do again would they do it, and they each said “YES”! In fact, TJ is now in the re-enlistment process and is planning to serve as a Marine for 20 years. You, too, must be very proud of your new Marine Recruit!

Your new Marine will leave you with such positive emotions beyond words – not to mention tears of pride! You’ll wonder how they are doing at boot camp since you can’t communicate by phone, e-mail or Facebook with them. You will miss them every day. You’ll cry when your recruit departs for boot camp and when you first see and hug him or her at Family Day liberty. It’s OK! You’re not alone! Over 20,000 families a year experience a son or daughter going to Boot Camp to become a Marine.

Congratulations to your son or daughter for enlisting in the U. S. Marine Corps!

Welcome to the best military service family in our Country – the Marine Corps!

Enjoy your trip to Family Day and Graduation Day!

Call, come see us and/or e-mail us if we can help, answer questions, or you want to visit to share your experiences. We’d love to help you and even have you in our home to see our pictures, share experiences and answer your questions face to face.

You will soon be the proud parent of a Few, Proud U.S. Marine! Ooh Rah!

Semper Fi!

Terry L. Taylor, Sr.

PROUD DAD OF 2 MARINES

CONTRIBUTORS

A special thank you to the following individuals for their assistance, guidance, information and support of this Marine Recruit Parents Guide.

Recruiting Station Indianapolis Command

Retired Master Gunnery Sergeant Doyt Wayland Akom, Jr. (Deceased 3/15/2011)

Gunnery Sergeant Bret Steward, Recruiting Station Indianapolis

Gunnery Sergeant Jeremy Reed, Cherry Point

Staff Sergeant Robert Brabata, Camp Pendleton

Staff Sergeant Nathan Whitwood, Fort Wayne South Recruiting Substation

Sergeant Mike Duval, Fort Wayne South Recruiting Substation

Sergeant Derek Leibfried, Fort Wayne South Recruiting Substation

Sergeant Terrence L Taylor Jr (my 1^st Marine son), Camp Lejeune

Corporal Christopher J Taylor (my 2^nd Marine son), Camp Lejeune

Max Beerup, USMC Family Support, usmcgradsandiego.org

A special thank you to the United States Marine Corps and related web sites for

providing invaluable information for parents of poolies, recruits and Marines.

Marine Corps

MCRD Parris Island

MCRD San Diego

Camp Lejeune

Camp Pendleton

MarineParents.com

DEDICATION

This Marine Recruit Parents Guide is dedicated to the Marines and their families who unselfishly and voluntary serve our Country to protect our freedom, the Wounded Warriors including LCpl Brandon Long for your inspiration, and the Killed in Action Marines including CPL William H. Crouse IV for your personal sacrifice. We are grateful for your honor, courage, commitment, service and sacrifices. Semper Fidelis!

DISCLAIMER

Neither the United States Marine Corps nor any other component of the Department of Defense has approved, endorsed, and/or authorized this guide. The information and schedules are subject to change without notice by the Marine Corps and/or MCRD.

RESEARCHED, WRITTEN, EDITED, FUNDED, PICTURES and PRINTED BY

Terry L Taylor Sr – Proud Dad of 2 Marines

marine_corps_recruit_parents_guide_53

“The Marines I have seen around the world have the cleanest bodies, the filthiest minds, the highest morale, and the lowest morals of any group of animals I have ever seen. Thank God for the United States Marine Corps!”

Eleanor Roosevelt, First Lady of the United States of America , 1945

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