What It's Like To Graduate From Marine Boot Camp ...A Photo Tour
As I mentioned earlier, my nephew's graduation from Marine Boot Camp had a big effect on me.
He became a basically-trained Marine on Friday, August 18, 2006, part of "M" Company, Third Battalion, Platoon 3068.
Here's how things looked, from a proud Aunt's perspective...
A First-Hand Account of Graduation from Boot Camp
I was so overwhelmingly impressed by what I saw that day:
The "formal" procedures involving the top-notch musically-inclined Marine band along with a good deal of ceremonial sword spinning, cannon-blasting, and flag waving...
History & Lyrics for the Marine Hymn
Marine recruits standing at attention -- for hours, in the blazing sun, in a series of lines & groupings -- all part of the process to graduate 566 young men & women on this day...
Hummer, the Marine Corps newest Depot mascot graduated on this day, as well. Hummer is s 7-month old English bulldog who is taking the place of Lance Corporal Mac, a 7-year-old English bulldog who served active duty from 2002 to 2006. Mac is enjoying retirement now while being treated for a spinal condition. He lives with Staff Sgt. Benjamin Becker & his family, and he accompanies Sgt. Becker to work every day.
It is said a cainine mascot helps by "boosting the morale of his fellow troops and recruits, and showing visiting families what a "real" devil dog looks like.
The English bulldog was unofficially adopted as the Marine Corps mascot during World War I, when the German Army had reportedly nicknamed the attacking Marines "Teufelhunden," meaning "Devil Dogs." Source
The precise movements of Marine officers and the recruits. From solid, meaningful salutes of respect to clenched fists of the recruits as they walk... Perfection is what everyone strives for here. And it's evident that it's the ultimate sign of respect...
Awe-inspiring female recruits & officers who stood strong, and touch, and proved that women are just as capable as men at defending this great country of ours...
On February 15, 1949, a separate "command" was activated for the sole purpose of training female Marine recruits. This command has since been designated the 4th Recruit Training Battalion and is the only battalion in the Corps to train female recruits.
Source: globalsecurity.org
Girls with guns...
The crowd, filled with oh-so-proud mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, aunts, uncles, girlfriends, boyfriends, children and more! The pride was SO evident on this day... a relative's pride for their remarkable Marine, and the Marine recruits' pride for their own mastery of the impossible...
And the drill instructors who, prior to this day, I had thought worked hard to get to where they are, but I figured they were just men & women who were on one big ego trip -- with control issues. You know, the kind of people who thrive on making other people feel small and making themselves feel big. But on this day, I learned what it really means to work hard -- and that INCLUDED all of the drill sergeants and other leaders.
One, in particular impressed Jim & I to no end... He worked as hard or harder than his recruits -- in the hot blazing sun -- moving 90-miles-an-hour at all times -- determined and focused on the task at hand. For nearly an hour (after the graduation ceremony) we watched him interact with his recruits. He never asked his recruits to do something without lending a hand himself -- even menial tasks like picking up trash in the bleachers and out on the sidewalks. We also watched him "lay it on" one recruit (we're talking HARD! Tough! In-your-face! and MEAN!), so we truly saw this guy's gruff & mean side. Yet it was evident that he was so easy to respect and learn from at the same time. Kudos to all of the drill instructors who are fair & balanced like this... truly a class act.
Online video: Parris Island Marine recruits & drill instructors
Hello,
My name is Mike and I am a civilian who stumbled upon this site. I want to thank the US Marines and their families for allowing me to live a life free of oppression, the ability to celebrate my religion, the freedom to go to school regardless of my race or gender, and the freedom to speak freely.
Travel safely and hold your heads high with pride.
God Bless.
Nancy, My son left for PI on March 29 and graduates next week, June 26, 2009. I felt like you when he first left, ... what did he eat, how long did he get to sleep, etc.... I promise you that they get 8 hours of sleep per night 8pm-4am and three square meals a day. My son has reported from the beginning that the food is VERY good (but of course he's very hungry from all the physical activity). My son started writing us at about 2 weeks in. He has enjoyed boot camp, even though it has been a mental and physical challenge. I hope this helps you in some way. Today, is the 2nd day of the crucible for my son, so I'm diligently praying for his success. God Bless you and your son!!
My Fiancee just left for boot camp in Paris Island on june 6 th 2009. The hardest part was that arriving phone call that lasted 5 seconds,it was the coldest phone conversation that i've ever had needless to say it was not a conversation, it sounded like he was reading a script. I swear its better off saying goodbye from home. Its been 2 weeks since hes been gone and i am still having sleepless nights , Is there anyone who can tell me from first hand experience what's the first week like ? , what do they eat ? There's so many Questions . But i pray for all marines and military families around the world and urge them to support their loved ones who have made this brave decision to serve their country.
thank you
ok sorry i need to re-word that. im about to graduate in may and i would like to join the marines. im trying to find information about girl experiences in the Marines. how its like and everything. how one is treated too. well my email is dana_rvr@yahoo.com so anyone willing to give me some advice and more i'd be really happy. ;)
hey im a senior in high school ready to graduate. i went to join the marines but if anyone can give me some info on girl marines pleas email me at dana_rvr@yahoo.com. i would really really appreciate it. thanks.
i leave for south carolina june 8th and i was wondering if someone could tell me what to do, and what not to do. is it possible to fail bootcamp?
Hey Tammara,
So you just got out of basic for Marines correct?
I was wondering if you could answer some questions I had about basic.
Thank you
I just came from bootcamp on november 21st.it was a hard and long experience. but i loved it.I also know amanda and was in her platoon.ladies are takin over and we strong as hell so all i gotta say is ooorah!!!
My sister Amanda graduated Today.
N Company
4th Batallion
Platoon 4036
Graduation: Nov. 21st, 2008
I'm an Airborne Infantry Soldier myself and I remember the day, when we had boot camp graduation! It felt so good, I'll never forget that day.
I only got 10 months left in the Army, what a great time!
My 18 year old son Jeff began 2nd Phase at Parris Island this week. I can't wait for his graduation December 12,2008 and I'm missing him so much yet also am very PROUD OF HIM!
I booked the Hilton Hotel at 119 a night, I felt that was a great price and it's 5 miles from Parris Island. Does anyone know when airfare should be booked safely? Family of 5 traveling from the North some driving together some by air that can't drive. Family of 2 Grandparents from Florida that are driving from the west coast of FL.
His letters are upbeat and he's enjoying it. His only concern seemed to be the gas chamber which should now be over. He said over and over "It's gonna s**k." I know that means he was nervous. He is not fearful of anything else and enjoying his training.
Be safe and healthy all. Support out troops and don't forget to vote please.
Best regards,
Michelle
I graduated from boot April 25th, 2008 and have been in the fleet since July. You will note a differnce in her manners. She will be more proper and polite right when she gets out. To be completely honest, once she hits the fleet she will cuss like sailor(or in our case Marine). Also she will get a no bul sh** attitude. After you get out of bootcamp you dont feel like putting up with anyone's bullcrap.
My boyfriend is a marine and he gets deployed in a couple months its the hardest thing in the world but its so worth it! Semper Fi!
My brother is going to be a usmc im soo proud
if you will watch the military channel they have a show on that runs through Marine boot camp(all three phases) it usually plays around Nov.10 ( Marine Corps Birthday)it can give u alot to go on but if You have any ather questions you can e-mail me. lilrickyparmer@aol.com
Welcome to our family, and Congrats to your nephew on joining the ranks of the few and the proud! Semper Fi!!!
My boyfriend just left for his boot camp training on July 20th. I was just wondering if you could just tell me what it is like. I am so interested, but it is so hard because the internet can only tell you so much and i have not been able to talk to him...i understand that it may not be awhile till I actually can, if I can at all. Well I would really appreciate to hear back from you! Thanks
Hi my boyfriend just left for Camp Pendleton and i was wondering after reading your entry if you got any information that helped you out!
CLICK HERE to get the inside scoop on USMC boot camp!
My 18 yr old nephew left for boot camp marines
parris island 7-08. I wish he could have read this web site its very informational. Hes in for a shock. he wasnt to prepared. but i think he will do great.
These pics brings back memories of boot camp, especially when I can see Alpha Co (the comapany i graduated from on PI) in the background. It was a very memorable experience. 13wks was rough, hard, but well worth it. Had plenty of blood, sweat, and tears.
Thats a nice picture of Paris Island sadly I never tried to be a D.I. but my Father came to my graduation in '03 but my mother died 18 days into boot camp, but our guardian angels watch over us in war and in pride.
Sincerely Sgt. Fiori
OOH-RAH Semper Fidelis Pow-Mia
hi ma name is Cesar and i i been in for 3 yrs and 4 months and i recently re-enlist and i love my Marine Corps UhhhhRahhh!! amd motivated dedicated to my Corp and am about to pick up SGt probably next quarter stationed in Camp Pendleton but currently deployed at Camp Al Fallujah , Iraq a as soon at get back i have orders to go 2 Miramar , San Diego
Hi, I was wondering if you would help me. I am writing a fiction story and the main character his just made it to Boot Camp. I wanted to know what time is revelry and do they still use that term. How big is a normal platoon and usually how many men to a barracks. Do they have some sort of orientation once they arrive or is it all taken in steps as they go from one sector to another? I don't mean to ask so many questions but I am trying to make this story as believable as I can so I want some of things that I talk about to be true. Although, my characters are fictional. Please help me out if you will it would be really appreaciated. What ever other tid-bits you could help me with would be great. Thank you so very much, Cecelia Land
When I had gone to P.I. for Bootcamp, Graduation was all I could think about. When I got injured, then sent home, I was upset that I couldn't march on the Parade Deck and finaly be called Marine. Hopefuly next time though...
This web site is a great idea for new marines, i wish my family could have done somthing like this when i graduated on apr. 15 2005 . conrats to your mew marines.
semper fidelis,
CPL. Johnathan Ward
USMC
Patti -
Here is some information for you...
Our son is in his second day of boot camp at Camp Pendleton, CA. Is there any information on boot camp there?
My girlfriend just left today for marine bootcamp in Parris Island. I have not idea what to expect. All I can say is that I miss her soo much and I just am wondering if that sweet soft side of her will still be there when she gets out,,,I dont know what to do with myself so any support or suggestions would be soo appreciated! Thanks soo much! Steve
I think u guys must be pretty strong to go into the marines and u guys should get alot recpect
Do you happen to know where I can find some photos from the August 24th 2007 Graduation at Parris Island?
Hi Kim,
My son graduated from Parris Island July 6th. Everything went smooth, however you will not hardly recognize your child I heard this and found it hard to believe but it is true. Please take binoculars if you attend the graduation they all look alike. I was very worried about the crucible and do not worry my son said the mental training was far harder than any physical he went through. Many tears were shed through family day and graduation. I sent my son protein bars and when you send them they get divided between the whole platoon so guess alot of parents do that. Also on family day they sell pictures and this is actually maybe your first close up of your son I was surprised they had their picture there for you to purchase well needless to say the tears flowed. May God Bless your son as he travels his new journey.Oh make reservations early if you are going to graduation they fill up fast I stayed at the Days Inn in Beaufort and it was fine.
Diane
I am a marine stationed at camp pendelton, ca. i have been in the marine corey for about a year and i saw your site and i think its really great because sites like this make parents and loved ones more confortable with the fact the son, daughter or loved one is not going through the best time of their life ty. pfc mckay
My son is 3 weeks into boot camp, we are so very proud of him. As a new military parent I welcome all advice.
Well, I've been in the corps for 14 months now, and boot graduation seemed miles away...until while searching marine corps uniform regulations for a female corporal of mine, in typed "female marines" in google images, and low amd behold did my very own self appear in the first two pictures, acompanied by my whole platoon of 4026. I was very impressed by your website, and appreciate it emensely. The google pictures were connected to your website, which instantly brought me back to the day I graduated with your nephew, aug 18, '06. It was a nice stroll down memory lane I haddn't taken since the inicial picture review with my family over boot leave. It reminded me of why i made this committment! OOh Rah!
I have English Bulldogs and would like to purchase a uniform like the one worn by Hummer. Can you give me a contact?
Thank you.
Thomas P. Gahagan
Thank you for this site! I was searching for the message my son spoke to me on that first phone call home. I was so busy listening to his voice I forgot what he said to me.Great photo's, much appreciated
As a former Marine I would like to wish your nephew good luck and thank him for serving in the Corps. I was a recruit in 3rd Bn Kilo Co Platoon 3035, and graduated form PI on April 23, 1999. Send you nephew my regards. Semper Fi, to all before, during and after my time with the Corps.
I JUST WANTED TO THANK ALL THE MARINES OUT THERE.AND I AM SO PROUD OF ALL OF THEM.BUT I WANTED TO SAY THANKS TO MY SON WHOM IS NOW A PVT.THEY ALL LOOK SO NICE ON GRADUATION DAY AT PARRIS ISLAND.4-20-07
My wife and I leave in the morning for our sons graduation this coming friday. I know you understand the meaning of "Proud Parents" It will also be special as I graduated on that same parade deck 33 years ago. He is in K company and also is in the blue section. Thanks for you site here
I'm very impressed with this site. I sense the immense pride and love of country and Corps. Keep up the great work. Semper Fidelis, Ron Tucker, Executive Producer, Good-To-Go Video, Captain, USMC, Retired.
Hehe...I'm a Marine who is stationed here at MCRD Parris Island. You summed it all up quite well! There is so much pride in the air around here on Thursdays and Fridays! I just love it. The mascot "Hummer" used to live with me and I taught him his "puppy manners"...you should see how much he's GROWN since last August! He's a big ol' boy now! Still just a big baby at heart though! I know Mrs. Conright's (see comments above) son and daughter in law and have baby sat her grandson! Small world huh?
Semper Fidelis!
Jenna
these pictures are great. im leaving for boot camp 23/07/07 i cant wait to claim the title of marine. only im going to MCRD SD not PI. thank you.
S. Walker
When I googled "Parris Island Band", I found the picture from your sight. My son and daughter in law are in the band and I could actually see my daughter in law in the picture.. Thanks so much.
Thank you so much for doing this, its brings me closer to my daughter who is currently at Boot camp at P.I. I cant wait for Grad!