The Fun Times Guide

Mary - what Platoon is he with, my son is also with the 2nd RTBN, graduating 2 October. I am so excited for him. Tell your daughter not to worry. They are in 2nd phase now, and from here on out, they will be very busy. After 2nd phase, they will start BWT to get prepared for the crucible. 3rd phase, I will be lucky to get a letter every other week from my boy. My son comes from a family of Marines: Myself, his dad, my brother and our Grandpa. Semper Fi.

My name is daniella. Me and my bf gulmaro have been togther for a year. He left on the day of our aniverserry. I am only 15 years old and he is 18. He has been my best guy friend for a couple of years so we started to see eachother. At first he really didn't want to go to the marines but he passed his test and was positive that he was gonna do it. It is now the 2nd day without him and I've got to say this is gonna be the hardest thing I'm doing. We are so attached so it it exxtremely rough right now. After reading all these comments I can see I'm in for a long trip. I am proud of him. We come from a little town in Tx. I know he's going to make the best of it. I'm gonna pray for him.

My boyfriend went to boot camp a month ago.. Im super sad n worried... I received a letter sayin how sick he is n how he cant be there any longer..today we got a phone call saying he is at the hospital super sick...i dont know what to do from here..im really stressed out..

My daughters boyfriend, and love of her life left for boot camp on July 6th. He will graduate on October 2nd from Echo company.Even though, I am not his mother, it has been hard for me to watch the effect it is having on my daughter. There are ups and downs.When she received her first letter she was so excited. She then received two more in a row. It has now been more than two weeks since she or his mother has heard from him and we are starting to worry. I know he must be okay but it is still hard.

i just got a letter yesterday he has a fever,respiratory infection and cellulitis on his ankle. im stressing big time. i have sent him 12 letters,the last 2 he has only recieved. again,im stressing. why do they torture us? im grounding him when he gets home! ha!

I was a recruit from May through August of 1960. I was and 18 year old young man when I arrived and 18 year old Marine when I left. Nothing since has been as life changing or instructive as those months on the Island. It was Hell...it was Heaven. It was the making of a Marine. I will never forget it.

My son was born as Beaufort Naval Hospital September 13, 1987 when both his Mom and Dad were Marine Corps Drill Instructors, will be leaving for boot camp in September this year. I am his mother and this is my baby, what will become of him in boot camp, I am not worried but it is after boot camp that concerns me. I had no part in his decision except for my past service in the Marines he made the decision while I was deployed. I am so proud of him. I can not wait to see him march across that parade deck in December.

For all concerned about the changes in your new Marines, I can assure you that they will resume the personalities they had prior to being in boot camp. I have been a Marine for almost 10 years and have been to Iraq twice. Everyone comes out of Marine Boot Camp hard as nails. the training stays with you, but remember that in boot camp they are cramming a lot of training in a little time and there's not time for joking and playing around. after boot camp when you are once again surrounded by normal people, things like eating a whole meal in seconds start to fade, but only to the point of being able to be recalled at any time. Plan on them walking around singing cadences and yelling ooh-rah and saying things in their sleep like "yessir!,""nosir!,""Ayesir!" they may also freak out once in a while when they can't find their M16 until they realize they turned it in before they graduated. All normal and all somewhat temporary.

When he graduate my boyfriend graduates aug 21st i also sent him protein bars but make sure there high in protein like rx 100 and dont send more then 1 beacuse they only gave my boyfriend one and i sent him to

My boy friend soon to be husband one day.. left on may 26 the last week he was here it was so different.. u would have thought i would have been with him every day for his last week but i was not.. i was jus with him the last two days. and it seemed like our relationship got even closer in those last two days. but i was crying so much.. i mean i wanted the tears to stop flowing but they didn't . i miss him so much.. he graduates on aug. 21 2009 four days b4 my b day.. wen i see him i really dont know wat im going to do. all i do know is that im going to hold him.. but when that day comes... thats all i can say about that when that day comes..

My son, my only boy, left this Sunday too for Parris Island. Although the send off was a bit bittersweet, I have never seen my son so focused and prepared... emotionally, mentally and physically. I believe and pray this experience supersedes all of his expectations to better himself... as a Marine... as a man.
Sempre Fi

my son left Sunday. I have been sobbing and worried about him ,he is "my baby".

Hi everyone,My son just left for Paris Island this morning Monday April 27,and i must say i am one PROUD DAD.But in a time of WAR,I am Proud as i am scared.Their is so much i need to know,just cant get enough input,would love to be the fly on the wall there,I know he will be fine,but it`s tough,I`m open for all input,thank you...

Hi i am going to be a future marine i leave for parris island in july. When i get out of basic i will be in Marine Recon the toughest you can do in the military. All of the women and men out there army,navy, airforce etc.. are heroes they all are fighting for our lives and our freedom respect them and pray thanks!!!

MY soon to be husband left for boot camp on February 23rd and he grads. on May 22nd I cant wait to see him. When he left I was almost 3 months prego and now I am 5 I will be 27 weeks when I see him and I cant wait for him to see my belly and feel his little baby girl move. He is sad that he is missing all of this but I know and he knows that he is making a man out of himself and he will be a better person down the raod. Not that he was not a good person before. He talks really diffrent in his letters like using words that he would never say so I know he is going up. At the begining he was writing me ever other day and now it is like once a week. I know he is really busy but I still write him like 3 to 4 times a week and send him pictures of my growing belly. On May 29th I will marry the love of my life and my U.S Marine. The best day of my life. KATIE

I leave for Paris Island May 26, I can't wait I'm either running, lifting, or biking everyday. I met the new Sergeant Major over my recruiting district yesterday, I felt like I was already in bootcamp. He was a tough as nails salty old guy I didn;t know how to talk to him. Anyway goodluck to all recruits shipping out soon, Semper Fi!

I have 2 months and 19 days until bootcamp and i cant wait im so excited to leave to see what its like to go to boot camp and live a new but very challenging life

My boyfriend/best friend came back from usmc boot camp at parris island.. and it's scary how much he's changed. He's made so many positive changes in his life, like changing his phone number and not associating with negative people who were his friends anymore, but he doesn't seem to have much emotion anymore. Before he was comical, and goofy, always entertaining others and his quirky personality was what I loved about him. Now it's completely gone. He doesn't even seem to be comfortable laughing. I wonder if this is a temporary thing and he just needs more time to adjust to being back home, and to get his mind off parris island, because I want him to be happy and I'm worried about his new outlook on life.

As a former marine 1982-1989 you can bet when your loved one comes out of Paris Island they will be different people however the will be a better person for it. I pray for every one of my brothers and sisters in the corp today and I can only wish that I could still be with them in what ever the future brings. Simper Fi do or die OOOHHH RRRAAAHHH

ya,i went on a school trip(with NJROTC)to paris island.We went through three days of the boot camp. i honestly am never going back.even though i hated every moment of it, i now honestly hold marines to a wayyyy higher respect.

right now i am 12 years old but when i get old enough i want to be in the marines and im going to come to paris island for bootcamp.what can i do to prepare for the marines.thanks for your time

I went through there in 1969 my father in 1942 and my youngest son in 1998. He will never be the same again you now have a man not just a boyfriend.

Hello Bella,
I understand how you feel. There can be several reason why ur boyfriend hasnt got a chance to write to you. They are very busy down there, he may have gotten sick..which is pretty common or his address may have changed. Try not to worry, I know its hard but stay positive and pray. He will contact you as soon as possible. Stay in contact with his family as well and see if they are experiencing the same thing.

Hey my boyfriend has been in boot camp for over two months and he wrote to me the third week he was in and he wrote for three weeks after that but he hasn't continued writing since then. It's been over a month since I've heard from him...should I be worried? Could anyone let me know any reasons for him not being able to write for such a long time like this? P.S. I send him letters a few times a week and he hasnt responded. Thanks

God bless them all.

Hey my boyfriend left sept.8 2008, i didnt hear from him until the second week he was gone...It takes him awhile to settle in and get used to his new life...TRUST ME you will hear frm him....I only get about 1 letter a week..bc they r sooo busy..but once i had his address i sent him like 2 or three a week..send him alot of letter and some pics for his cork board..it will be his motivation each morning...You will get used to it...and once you get that letter you will be sooo happy...

Is there a number you can call to get specific details about parris island and their boot camp process?

Go to http://parrisisland.yuku.com/ for Parris Island Boot Camp and to http://parrisisland.yuku.com/ for Marines... Its fantastic to find out info. from others that have been there done that....
Good Luck....

My boyfriend just left for the Marines last week and Im going crazy without him. I havent heard from him since he left. How soon did you get your first letter and how often do you talk to your boyfriend?

Be sure to read the posts for Recruits. Join in CHAT also... Female Marines: The Fewer and Prouder!
Proud Mom of SGT Sarah ! (Go to Parris Island YUKU ... and enjoy!

Be sure to read the posts for Recruits. Join in CHAT also... Female Marines: The Fewer and Prouder!
Proud Mom of SGT Sarah !

Since when do they have recruits arrive in the day time??..Usually it's in the dead of night and you see NOTHING once you go past the main gate until you arrive at the recieveing barracks

My best friend/boyfriend left for the Marines on August 25. Everyone tells of how the Marines really mess with your head and how you are a totally different person when you come back. I see it in a number of Marines, but there are some who come back better. Some who are the same, who still laugh and cry. The Marines are often feared because of the people who go in and come out different. Personally I think that it really depends on how strong or how you are able to get by in boot camp. Praying for a Marine...

I just signed up for the marines and I leave on Jan. 26th for boot camp! I haven't been more excited for anything else in my life!

My boyfriend has been at Parris Island since August. he sends me letters every week, and the last one talked about a website where i might be able to see pictures of him. does anyone know what website this might be?

My boyfriend has been at Parris Island Boot camp for about 4 weeks now and i miss him so much! He loves everything about the Marines and I can't wait to go see him graduate and pursue his Dream. I miss him so much and so does his family! only 2 months left I hope it goes by fast!

What is the website that anyone is seeing pictures on? Someone said YUKU is that right?

My son went to Parris Island on June 29,2008. His strong ambition and stronger heart is what makes him who he is. His eagerness to be a U.S.Marine will get him to graduation day on September 26th. I am so proud of him, and even though I miss him more than I could ever express at the same time I know he is following his dream and growing from the special little boy I raised to the wonderful young man "we call our Marine".

My ex boyfriend left for boot camp last week. I am so proud of him but at the same time I keep wondering if he will be very different from the person I am in love with. Going to the marines was always his dream and the only thing he would ever talk about. Everything we did together involved the marines. I couldn't be happier for him as of right now. His mother is going crazy missing him, everyday she goes in his room and looks at his pictures.

My son wanted to be a Marine from the time he was 12 years old. He graduated Parris Island October 19, 2007, currently is in California for desert training, and will be deployed soon. His boot camp graduation was an unforgettable, memoriable occasion, the culmination of a long-lived dream for him. I am extremely proud of my U.S. Marine and all of the men and women serving our country.

As a graduate of Platoon 3052 in September of 1982, there is hardly a day I don't use the experience of being a Marine to my advantage in everyday life. Once you leave Boot Camp as a Marine, you join a elite group that you belong to for the rest of your life. I am proud to see the comments of those who are ready to go and pray for those who wait for them. Godspeed and SEMPER FI!

I was at PI in 1959. This was before the crucible but was during the times when the DIs were allowed (encouraged some would say) to strongly handle each recruit. We used M1 Garands ( the best rifle ever produced). The training was the bt and the hardest I could ever imagine but it made me a man and what I am today. I never went into combat but was, and still am, assured that I was truly well equipped to do whatever I was called upon to do. Semper Fi!!!

I am a mom of a recruit at Parris Island and he is set to grad on Aug. 29. He seems to be doing well and likes it so far. I was wondering if anyone knew of a website where there might be pics of the recruits doing there basic training. Someone said out in the base in California they sometimes post pics of the recruits on there website. If anyone knows of this please let me know. thank you so much.

Everything will get easier, but only a little. My husband just left June 2, 2008. We got married May 29, 2008 and I am now, 5 months pregnant. He says it is very tough but he just needs a lot of support from home and send him letters everyday! Good Luck

To Jennell, already one of the Proud!
I'm trying to grab onto the memory so I'll keep it safe in my heart forever, of the toddler who needed help getting out of his crib. Because in 3 days, I will watch him and 1st Battalion/Co.B, shed their civilian skins for the very last time and put on the heart, mind & soul of a USMarine. The word 'proud' is not strong enough. But I wanted you to know how VERY proud I am of you and those who will stand shoulder to shoulder with you very soon. All who wear the uniform take the pointed end of the stick for the world. I am ashamed of the attitudes of many of our so-called "allies" but even more so at the "well-fed citizens" of the US. (The reader may infer whatever they wish WRT this statement, but it is IMHO) So Jennell, I'll be thinking of you and silently cheering you on to your day. But know this, I AM proud of you right now, wherever you are. Thank you for serving in these difficult times. And remember, you will never be alone - the spirits of Marines from the beginning - will walk beside you. Always.

NEVER give up!
Yours,
D.P.Donovan

Hey i am poolee Tizzano and i leave for boot camp august 11th. i am so stoked and nervous. but way motivated. when the day comes for me to leave for parris island i am going to leave my past behind. because i know the second i leave my life will be changed forever. the way i do things see things the way i say things, the way i respect people, 100 percent of how i do everything will be changed for the better. i cant wait to be a marine girl and serve my country and keep defending our freedom. what a tremendous honor to be a able to call yourself a marine!!!

Hi, my fiance is Rct Limbert he is in 2026 hco 2bn.. i got a letter from him today saying that one of his friends gf's found a website that has pictures of all of them on it does anyone know where i can find this stuff???

I FOUND YOU!! hehe

Nina,
I finally switched to the Yuku website! I'm PRGFEmma, duh:) Still figuring everything out though. I only ever check the Hotel Company - Plt. 2026 message board though. Are there others that I need to look at? I've heard that you've been talking to Austin's Mom!! How exciting is that?!
Johanna,
Are you going to switch?

jenna i registered at yuku but am having trouble finding "extras" what is your screen name again? mine is harlow45. i am feeling pretty bad right now since my boyfriend left yesterday and i got the scripted early this morning at 2:20...i am just so sad and i hope that soon this will get a little easier!

hey i saw that some people where sending stuff. other approved items are vitamin c drops and cough drops...in 2026 there are 79 recruits and the DI's divy out what ever you send. it goes to the whole plt. so be sure and send enough to share! thats what my rct. told me....

Also, i sent that to ya emma hope to see ya on yuku soon!

it's ewilhit1@utk.edu
thanks!

lynette, OOPS no wonder i couldnt find it lol!!!

Emma, its actually really easy what you have to do is sign up for a profile(if you havent done that yet), its one of the options at the top of the screen. it always takes a little time to get aquainted with a new site. if you can give me your email i can send you intructions and links on how to do it (i made up a LAYMANS info sheet to teach my boys mom how to set everything up)---im friends with Nina on myspace. i know you guys are friends so if she will send it to me, ill pass it along to you! Hope you get on there cause i love that site! im on 3 sites and that is my fav!

Emma,
Did you know Austin and Adams mom is on RecruitParents.com LOL. I found her on there!!

Jenna,
I'm having trouble figuring out where to post comments on the Yuku website. I need a little help:)
I don't think Austin's mail was ever held...he makes jokes about how popular he is at mail time.
Austin's mom has sent the entire platoon power bars yesterday, so they should be getting them soon!

Jenna --

You posted your other Comment here:
http://thefuntimesguide.com/2006/08/bootcampmarines.php#c169050

...a different article.

Hey i tried to post on here the other day but i never saw that it actually posted...

My boyfriend is in 2026 Hco 2BN---i think there are a few others of you on here with bf's there too.

My boyfriend is the new squad leader, I saw earlier comments about cards and stuff....I send them ALL the time! I also send lots of pictures. Also, my boyfriend NEVER had his mail held! I dont know what the deal was with that...maybe the address you have is off a little, you should compare it against someone else's cause sometimes what they send you isnt right. Also, He was one of the lucky ones who didnt get sick! Thank goodness! I know nina is, but i havent seen you yet Emma on the Yuku board...its a really good one. its really easy to use and there are lots of girls there! There is also the "recruit parents" message board but its not as active as the Yuku one. you should check them out!

Just wanted to let all of you know that there is a Parris Island message board that can connect you to many others with family/boyfriends in the same companies/plattoons. My daughter corresponded throughout boot camp with several girls while her boyfriend was at PI. She met them at graduation and just last weekend drove with them on a 11 hour drive to Missouri to visit them at Fort Leonard Wood, their MOS school. The website is parrisisland.yuku.com

Oh that's great that his mom is doing that! The newspaper idea is a good idea! LOL I should start doing that so he knows whats going on outside "Paradise Island" haha. So were aloud to send them power bars? They have the Parris Island Boot Camp Schedule online. I sent it to Eric...

Go Johanna!
Austin told me to quit sending him newspaper articles and puzzles because his footlocker is getting full! I was trying to keep him entertained:)
At least they are in Phase II now, I have heard that it goes a lot quicker.

That is awsome Emma, they really need those power bars. My boyfriend already received the box I sent him. He told me he was glad to receive them because anything that can give them extra energy always helps. I sent him a couple of boxes (about 40 bars) I am sure he will share!!

haha!
I think Austin's mom got her work to sponsor the platoon (so they will pay for each of the recruits to get a power bar for the crucible). So that's nice. I have been trying to find encouraging quotes to send to him before those two days to help him get through it.

Haha You're counting too!! OK...I thought it was just me LOL. I can't wait!!! They did the gas chamber today...I really hope everything went ok and my boyfriend didn't get sick! That's like the biggest thing I've been worried about since he's been in there...that and the CRUCIBLE!!!!
=(

my boyfriend is heading out Monday, March 10th...not sure how i found this awesome website but i have learned a lot about boot camp from it. so glad that i found out about that first phone call...is there anyone out there who's loved one is heading to boot camp very soon?

My boyfriend is graduating April 11,2008. I am so excited to see the man that he have became. I look forward to spend time with him and catch up on the good times. I have 36 more days left and I can't wait to see the love of my life!!!!!!

I am definitely going to be at graduation! I am so excited. Only 53 days left!!
I'm so glad I have both of you. I look forward to checking this website everyday.

Well thats cool! It's so weird...I don't even know how the heck I found this website lol I'm glad that we started talking though! See you at Graduation?

i'm headed out for parris island on april 27th. can anyone here tell me what some of the better parts of boot camp are? things that you have heard from your recruits?

My home is in Bolivar, but I live in Knoxville. I go to UT.

I do...what about you Emma? You still live in TN?

Nina,
Austin went to Lake Mary High for two years (that's where his mom lives) and then he moved to Bolivar (West TN) and went to my high school his last two years (where his dad lives). That is still so crazy though!
Johanna,
I was just wondering because Austin said that he gets frustrated sometimes because some of the recruits don't do what they are told (by the DI's) and I know how Austin is when he's frustrated..lol!!
So both of you live in Florida??

Nina, Emma
That is great!!
My boyfriend really didn't mention much about them, he just said that he met them.. He didn't say that Austin was mean or anything at all. Why?

by the way...I totally sent the Birthday card!! hehe I also made him a ton of mailing letters with his return address and everyones address that I know he talks to.

Hey Girls!

Eric just wrote me...he said he's real good friends with all 3 boys now haha. You know Eric and I were living in Longwood right by Lake Mary before he left for boot camp. I heard Austin and Adam went to Lake Mary High School. I live in Sunny Isles Beach, FL(North Miami) now with my parents while Eric is in boot camp. Apparently it's 10 minutes from Johanna and her boyfriend...haha It's a small world. LOL We have to meet up sometime...
Talk to you later,
Nina

Nina, you should totally send him a birthday card:)
Johanna, does Frank think Austin is mean (he told me that he gets frustrated sometimes because every time someone messes up in their platoon he gets quarter-decked)?

Nina,
I sent my boyfriend a valentine's day card, of course it was nothing that would catch anyones attention, just a small card. My boyfriend did not tell me that it caused him a problem. He loved it.!!
I suggest you to send it, but it should be something small,(low profile.. no music or anything)
Emma, My boyfriend also told me he met your boyfriend and his brother. :)

Johanna

Eric's Birthday is on Saturday. I'm debating whether or not I should send him a Birthday card. lol I don't want them to make fun of him or anything. You know how they are in there...What would you girls do?

I sent a letter to Austin (that was kind of like a worksheet so he could answer my questions just by checking a box) and I mailed it out on the 18th and he got it on the 21st, but wasn't able to send it back out until the 23rd and I got it back on the 26th. But, that could have been one of the ones that they didn't hold.

I do think they hold there letters for a couple of days.
My boyfriend told me that they would give them their letters in small intervals. I imagine that means that they get all the letters from the week in one day... who knows..
Just keep writting.. He will eventually get them
Johanna

No, my mom told me she thinks thats what they do because they're still trying to break Recruits and they don't want them to NEED their moms or girlfriends during that phase. I really think they do tho... I'm sure it will stop soon...they're going into their second phase. He JUST got my letter and I sent it 3 weeks ago! It should of only taken 3 days to get ya know? do you think they might be holding their mail? If they do...that really upsets me that they'd do that to them!

They "hold" the letters??? What the heck? Why do they do that?

Aww, our boyfriends are friends!! haha They keep holding the mail I send him. I hope they didn't hold the letter with the stamps I sent a while ago. I haven't gotten a letter since Saturday so I'm thinking they did... =(

Austin told me that he met both Frank and Eric!!!!
All the sick people were separated from the rest of the platoon and that they started back training.
I say, if they ask for it, send it:)

Thank God my boyfriend is not sick.. He is actually doing pretty good. Hopefully he doesnt get sick.. :(
He ask me for the cough dropps and the protein bars. But he specified not to send it certified because they wont give it to him.
I am asuming that if he asked for it, then it shouldn't be a problem!!!
I guess you should just send him the things they ask for..
johanna

I know! My boyfriend is sick but he said he's not sick enough to go to the hospital...thank God!

I know...they are getting quarantined and some people were even put in isolation or sent to the hospital! I'm just glad that it's not our guys :)

My boyfriend also asked for stamps...were aloud to send it Priority, which is what I did. He was down to like 2 stamps when he told me he needed them. Hopefully he has them by now...He said their platoon is on lockdown because everyone is getting sick with pneumonia!!

Austin only asked me for stamps. But he did stress not to send anything in Express Mail. His recruiter told me not to send anything to him unless he asked for it.

Aww, that is A LOT of stitches. You must of been so upset! I know I would be. I didn't know you were aloud to bring stuff to them like protein bars and cough drops? Are you sure? I don't want my boyfriend getting in any kind of trouble. It's hard on them as it is ya know...My boss was telling me this story of when he was younger his best friend joined the Marines. He sent him a cigarette in the mail and the DI made him eat it!!

Hello.. :)
My boyfriend also wrote to me and he told me to send him strong cough dropps and a box of protein bars.. Just thought you girls might like to know.

Johanna

Nina!
That is him!! He got his stitches out this past Friday. He says it is healing up well. The rifles are hung on their beds and 4 guys were pushing the bed, and they pushed it into Austin's head! I got so upset; that is a lot of stitches! Tell Eric that that's my boyfriend and that they should be friends!
Emma

My daughter quit her junior year of college to join the marines, she thought things in her life werent going well, she left 2 weeks ago, to me she is NOT Marine material, goes to bed at 4am, wakes up at 4pm. Got her first letter the other day, guess she is the one the DI decided to pick on, and she did not pass her IST I guess, i hope this all goes okay for her

I got another letter today. He was telling me about some guy getting his head split open by a rifle while he was cleaning...is that your boyfriend? He said he got 18 stitches!!

Nina

Hey Johanna and Nina,
My boyfriend wrote me today, he FINALLY got all the letters I sent him !!! It took about 2 weeks...His last name is Roberts. I'm actually writing him now, I'll ask him if he knows your boyfriend or his brother.

Talk to you girls soon!
Nina

Johanna and Nina,
I got another letter from Austin today and he said that they mostly go by last names. So even if he has already met Frank or Eric he wouldn't have known them by that name. So send me their last names so that they can be friends! Austin's last name is Scott. He and his brother (Adam) are there together. And Adam has made squad leader now too, just in case there are more people with the last name Scott.
Can't wait to hear back from y'all:)
Emma

I am definitely going to the graduation, but I can't go Thursday for Parent's Day because of school.
We'll finally get to met!
Plus, I live 6 hours away from our hometown and I have three finals during their 10 day leave:(:(:(
Hopefully I will get to see him a couple of days.
What a retarded little island--they need to fix their mail system!!

Well I hope I can go.. Nothing would make me happier, but I have a final test on the 24, late at night.. So lets see how I can play it!!!
My boyfriend also told me that they were told that the first mail takes long to receive and that the mail system in parris isalnd was not great!! Hmmm maybe that why they had not receive our mail..???
Johanna

Of course I am...I wouldn't miss that for the world! What about you girls? I heard there is a visitors day the day before graduation. I can't wait...I'm counting down the days. haha

Nina
I didn't get a phone call:( Johanna did! on Valentine's Day too!!!
He said that we are sending letters to the right address.

Johanna and Nina
Are y'all going to Parris Island for graduation on April 25th?

Emma

Hey Johanna and Emma,
I've been getting letters from my boyfriend everyday but he hasn't gotten any of mine either. I wonder why that is...I hope we're sending them to the right address. We all have the same address. Aww, Emma, you got a phone call!! You're so lucky! haha I can't wait to see my boyfriend, it feels like I haven't seen him in years!

Nina

Johanna!
He called you!!! That is so wonderful! I didn't know that they could use the phone. Maybe it was a reward for doing something really good:)
Thanks for the conformation on the address.
Emma

Ohh Emma, Remember to write back to:
Plt 2026, Hotel Co, 2 BN
P.O Box 12026
Parris Island, SC 29905-2026
My boyfriend told me that it was the specific box.

Emma,
I am so happy because my boyfriend called me on thursday. It was a very short phone call, but I got to hear his voice. He said he is doing well, and that he finally got my letters. I dont now if he got all of my letters, but he did say he got some. So that made my Valentines Day!!! :)
Dont worry, I am pretty sure that your boyfriend already received your letters!!!
Just keep writting!!!

Johanna

Everyone,

Relax! I know it's hard, but trust me your soon to be Marine is just fine. I'm a former DI/SDI (92-94) and I can tell you that all mail is given to the recruits on the day that it is received at the platoon. Keep in mind that there are 16 Companies of recruits at Parris Island at any one time. Each company has up to six platoons of up to 75 recruits each so it takes a while to sort all of that mail, but rest assured that he/she will get it eventually. They do receive mail while in the field, but their chances at writing back are slim because field training is just that - there isn't much down time. When they are not in the field, and in the barracks or garrison, then they have one hour of "free" time at the end of the training day. However, there are many things to accomplish while on free time so it's not like they get an hour to write back. During that time they also shower, prepare uniforms for the next day and study for any tests that they may need to give extra attention to. If I had to guess I'd say that even a "squared away" recruit would only have 10-15 min a day to write. More realistic is about 30 minutes per week to dedicate to letter writing. Trust me, there's that much to do and unfortunately, letter writing often times doesn't get to the top of the list although no fault of the recruit. Well, hope this reassures you all.

Take Care and Semper Fi,
Capt. K. Hanner (24 year USMC)

HI EVERYONE. JUST READ EVERY POST AND MY HEART GOES OUT TO EACH AND EVERYONE OF YOU. MY SON MICHAEL LEFT ON 11-25-07. HE GRADUATES THIS FRIDAY, 2-22. I GOT THE 10 SECOND PHONE CALL SAYING HE ARRIVED SAFELY, THEN THE PRE-PRINTED LETTER WITH THE ADDRESS, THEN NOTHING FOR ABOUT 10 DAYS. I WAS HYSTERICAL. I THINK IT'S A COMBINATION OF VERY,VERY LIMTED TIME AND UTTER EXHAUSTION. MOST OF HIS LETTERS END WITH HIM ASKING ME TO THANK EVERYONE FOR WRITING, AND APOLOGIZE FOR HIS LACK OF REPLYING.IT APPEARS HE IS SO PRESSED FOR TIME AND STRENGTH THAT 1 LETTER AT A TIME IS ALL HE CAN MANAGE.

WEEK 7 INTO 8 I DIDN'T GET ANYTHING FOR ALMOST 2 WEEKS. THEY ARE AWAY " IN THE FIELD" AND I GUESS ALL MAILS ON HOLD TILL THEN. TWO WEEKS AGO OR SO HE SENT AN EMAIL ADDRESS, WHICH IS WONDERFUL. I WRITE HIM EVERY DAY ON THERE IN ADDITION TO CARDS AND SNAIL MAIL. HIS LAST LETTER , RECEIVED TODAY, SAID HE GOT 6 EMAILS FROM ME ALL AT ONCE. SO I GUESS WE TAKE WHAT WE CAN GET.

HIS "CRUCIBLE" STARTED TODAY,SO PLEASE PRAY FOR HIM AND ALL THE YOUNG MEN AND WOMEN WHO ARE FACING THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE OF THEIR LIVES AS WE SPEAK. THEY HAVE ALL WORKED SO HARD, I PRAY THAT THEY ARE REWARDED WITH THE TITLE OF UNITED STATES MARINE AND THEIR WARRIOR BREAKFAST SAT. WE LEAVE TUESDAY FROM PA.TO HEAD SOUTH. THAT DARNED CLOCK AND CALENDAR CAN'T MOVE FAST ENOUGH.
GOD BLESS THEM ALL. PATSY

Johanna
And every single letter says to send him pictures, but will they even get to him???? (so start sending some pictures, i guess they can have them)
I just don't understand. Tonight I am writing a worksheet type letter to send so that he only has to check some boxes to answer my questions and i'm going to put an addressed, stamped envelope in there too so he will have to send it straight back.

Emma,
I am also very mad.. Here we are mailing them letters almost every day, and they still dont receive them. It makes me really sad because my boyfriend wrote that he is been writting to me and he still hasn't received anything from me, then he puts "PlEASE WRITE BACK".. It broke my heart!!
Im am sending them to:
PLT 2026, Hotel Co, 2BTBN
Parris Island, SC 29905-2026
(Which is pretty much the same address you send them to)
Johanna

Austin stills hasn't made any comments about getting my mail either. I am going to be REALLY mad if he doesn't get them.
I sent them to:
Plt. 2026 Co. H, BN. 2
Parris Island, SC 29905-2026
Is that the same as yours?
Plus, my letter today said that he had to get SEVENTEEN stitches on his head at the hospital...I cried

I also got another letter from him today!!! but I am a bit upset, he tells me he hasn't received any of the ltters I have sent him. Its already been 2 weeks since I wrote the first letter. Whats going on? I read that no letters where held.. and that letters were given to recruits they day they arrived. Im pretty sure my letter had aready arrived a long time ago!!!
:(
Johanna

I check this website everyday...:)
I got another letter today! From the way he was writing, I don't think that he had received any of the letters that I had sent him yet.
Surely he has gotten them since then.

I am so glad we all got letters!! and that they are doing just fine..
It is very nice to share with people that are going through the same situation you are.

Thanks girls :)
Johanna

Hey Johanna and Nina!
I got a letter this Friday!! I was so excited. He said that he had to sneak out of bed at 2 in the morning to write it. Austin also got one of the squad leader positions! I was so proud.
I noticed the difference in the address as well. I called his recruiter and he said that both of them will work, but PO Box 12026 was a more specific box. So I would start sending everything to that one!
YAY! We all got letters:)
Emma

My boyfriend, Eric left for Parris Island on January 28th. I just received a letter from him today. He's in Platoon 2026 Hotel Co. also. He told me they hardly get any free time for anything so that's probably why he hasn't been writing. Don't worry it'll get better. The first 4 weeks are the worst.

Nina

Emma,
His name is Frank.
I just received a letter from him. :) I was so exited!! He says he is doing good, but it is very hard, he is exsausted!! You will probably get one soon.
I am a little confused, The letter with the address he sent first is a different address than the one that appears in the envolope I just received.. What should I do?? What address are you sending the letters to your boyfriend?
Is it Box 16200 or Box 12026
Thanks
Johanna

Johanna,
They are together!!
What is your boyfriend's name? I'm going to ask Austin if he has met him yet.

Hey Emma
Thanks for your response!!
I think that they are in the same platoon.
PLT: 2026, CO:H, BN:2

Oh yeah, what platoon number is he in? Austin is in 2026 of the Hotel Company in the 2nd BN.

Hey Johanna!
I have yet to receive any letters from my boyfriend too. (I'll be sure and let you know when I do.) I got his mail address yesterday also. I sent him some letters today. Hopefully, we will get something this week.

Can anyone tell me when can I expect letter from my recruit.. He left on Jan 28 and yesterday I received a pre-printed letter, but nothing from him.
???

Yosy -
This article has LOTS of things you can send your fiance:
http://thefuntimesguide.com/2005/09/soldierpackages.php

Hello Emma
My boyfriend left on Jan 28, 2008 also. They let him make a phone call saying that he had arrived well. I received a pre-printed letter yesterday, but have not received any letters from him. Have you received any letters yet.. I am a little worried, I miss him so much!!

My fiance left for bootcamp training on Jan 7. (Platoon 2018)It's been very difficult without him. The children and I miss him a lot. I recently received letters and he's told me he's been very sick. Can anyone email me with a list of things I can send him. I know anything I send him right now would be great. Thank You.

My nephew left January 29. He arrived at 2:00 a.m. He also graduates on April 25. Please pray for our future Marines and their moms. Words cannot describe how proud I am of my nephew and for his courage. He has a proud family waiting and praying for him at home.

Hey all! My boyfriend just left for bootcamp in Parris Island on Jan 28th. He made it there at 1:00 in the morning last night! And he graduates on April 25th.

My boyfriend just left for bootcamp Jan.14,08 I didn`t think it would be this hard so soon. I miss him so much. Friends and relatives that have been there tell of some rough training they have to go through on Parris Island, Is it that bad?

my son has left for bootcamp on janurary 6 and boy do i ever miss him so so much he is my pride enjoy i'm going through a rough time because i haven't even gotten a letter yet,but ihave wrote him so many letters he'll probably get mad at me, i love him to no end

i love the marines im a cadet corprel and i love it

My son also left for boot camp December 17. I received the first form letter with an address December 24. I hope you other moms have received your sons' addresses by now. If not, contact his recruiter. If you can, write every day or see to it that some other family member or friend does.

Hello,

I'm off to boot camp in April, and this web-site was the best one i've found yet on USMC boot camp experiences!! Thank you so much for taking the time and creating this site!!!

My son also left for Parris Island on December 17, 2007. Our family is proud of his decision. I have started writing letters even before I receive his address. When I know his address, I'll send them in a larger envelope. I read that sending recruits self-addressed stamped envelopes was a good idea so I'll put them in the envelope too.

my friend is going to be at boot camp in parris island over christmas. i wanted to send him a marine stocking..but i wasnt sure if he would be allowed to receive it or not. i was told by someone that they can only receive letters. any info would be great!!

The Marines was a great time in my life I served in Iraq in 04 and was a Corporal when discharged.There is a certain pride you carry with you when you say "I was a Marine" If anyone has any questions I'd be honored to help you cause I been there done that not too long ago... hit me up at runninandgunnin@excite.com ... take care and Semper Fidelis

My son left today 12-17-07. Two questions how can I get his plt # and CO? And How many recruits are injured at bootcamp?

MY boyfriend leaves for boot camp on january 15th and i really don't want him to go, he keeps telling me that he doesn't want to go and then he changes his mind. the only reason he signed up is because he was looking for another way of killing him self * this was before he met me* i need help in talking him out of it... anything would be great!

my sonleft on nov 27 and it feels like long time it seems harder now then when he first left especially during the holidays. I stillneed to here from him hope its soon.

I haven't heard from my son yet, he left Dec 3. Does any one think that sending band aid , mole skin and insole will cause him a problem with the DI, will it attract attention?
worried Mom Tina

My son left on Dec 3rd for Parris Island. Wish I could talk to a mother of a new Marine. I have some many questions.
Tina

My (step)son arrived at Parris Island on 11/13. He's having a REALLY REALLY ROUGH time! He's SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO homesick!!! We've written him lots of letters and sent LOTS of pictures. He needs to get through this though -- he needs to find his place in life. And I truly believe this is IT! Ooo-rah!

has anyone heard of RTC OR RCT BOOT CAMP?? My daughter is 22 and is being sent there.

My daughter left yesterday for family day at Parris Island. Her fiance, my future son in law will graduate from boot camp Nov. 30 and will come home a Marine. We can't wait to see him. We are so proud of him. We are so proud of our daughter too. She spent the last 13 weeks, holding on to a promise, being so strong, working, helping take care of all of our pets, helping me at home, taking care of me when I was sick, all this through missing the one she loved. We saw a change in her - she grew up and matured. We wish we could have been there for her future husband and see him graduate. We are proud and happy they BOTH got through the past 13 weeks!

Hello all... I am currently in the Air Force. I know, I know - you all are probably wondering what the heck I am doing here. Well, the 'Blue' just isn't cutting it for me. I wish to become a Marine, and have already initiated the process. I just have one worry, however:

Once I am in, how often will I be able to see my fiance? After boot camp of course. She would be the only reason why I might second guess this decision, as she means the world to me. However, I have always yearned for more and feel that the U.S. Marine Corps will give me more, and make me more.

What do I do??? Sorry for the lengthy speech, btw.

Ignore my question. I just got a letter today! He says he's having fun, but wishes he could eat more, but that's nothing new for him. Good luck to all the parents who have children in boot camp. Semper Fi

My friend just left for boot camp a couple of weeks ago and he said he would write to my address while he was at Parris Island. Does anyone have any advice on when I should expect a letter, or if he can even write to someone other than his family? This is a great website, by the way.

"my son Andrew left on Dec.3 2007 i hope hes ok and we all miss him"

It's barely November.

Great info, HOORAH

My boyfriend is in boot camp now too so I know what you're going through and what you're probably going to go through. If you have the addres already then yes you should DEFINETLY START WRITING! Trust she would love to here from you ASAP! I write my boyfriend almost every other day and everytime he writes back it puts WRITE BACK SOON at the end of just about each letter. From what I'm told they love pictures too but keep it classy because just about the platoon will see the pictures. But other than that I'm not going to lie it is hard not seeing your loved one but everytime you receive a letter your heart jumps so I'm pretty sure they get the same reaction. I love my recruit! one month left..can't wait!!!!!!!!!

My girlfriend just left for the Marines bootcamp today. I just dont know what to expect and I keep wondering if she will change how she feels about me and harden up due to her experience there. She is 26 and a mother of 2 children and an marine brat. I am hoping her being older will help her get through. I have no idea what to do with myself. I am lost without her. I was given her address by her recruiter and he said to write her now. or should i wait till she sends me her address. comfused and lost inside. please and support or suggestions are greatly appreciated....t2fst4u8@yahoo.com

This website is great. My son David..just left October 15th, 2007..I am very proud of him. I miss him and I can't wait until I can write him. As a Mom, it was hard letting him go. This is something he has always wanted to do and I support him 100%. It is nice to know that there are others feeling the same thing I am feeling.

I'm an active duty Marine just curious what the families are talking about while kids are at boot camp. A few thoughts: you cannot see boot camp. You must experience it first hand. Asking what it was like is going to net you the same response as asking if they felt older on their birthday. It cannot be easily described and they will be too proud to try and tell you anyways. It is not all as portrayed in 'full metal jacket' but there are similarities. There are only 2 people in the world more capable of the safekeeping of your children than the DI's. Mom and Dad. Also, the time will almost fly for them while it creeps for the families. There will be very hard and difficult emottional times for the recruits but when you respond to these depressed letters it's best to not even recognize those thoughts and tell them about your week. Knowing how you go through each day is one of the most comforting things to recruits and the deployed, alike. We feel as if everyday is the same and you wouldn't and couldn't understand anyways. If you think you have a stressful job, imagine if all of your failures resulted in an explanation(kind way of putting it) of how your buddies just died in the firefight because of your shortcomings. But, that's why we're the best.

My son Melvin Williams left for Paris,Island on September 24, 2007.I recieved my first letter today,but it was very depressing.Melvin should graduate on December 21, 2007 and we pray that he will accomplish all things needed to become a Marine.MAY GOD BLESS HIM.LOVE HIS LOVING & CARING MOM,TOSHA BENNETT

Does any one know how long it takes for them to be able to start writing letters and how often they recieve letters?

My Nephew is at Paris island as I type this. He has a very big family and we wish him all the luck in the world. I don't know how my sister can stand wondering how he is, but after reading through this site it makes me feel better that he is in good hands. I will send this page to her and hope that it makes her fell better too. Does anyone know how many people are allowed to go to his graduation in November?

oh srry he looks like a guy i went to school with but sorry about it and you must be real proud.

Jack -
Nope. He doesn't live in Florida.

Lynnette

oh uh does he live in flordia? because i thik i went to school with him.but not sure

the one in front of the ww2 memorial

Hey Jack -
That's our nephew, Benjamin.

hey Lynnette who is he marine in the picture he looks real familiar? can you get back to me thanks

THIS SITE IS EXCELLENT! My boyfriend just left September 17th. I write him just like he was right in front of me and I draw pics and inspirational scriptures from the Bible. I read a few of the postings and got some good ideas of things to send like comics and photos. Anything else? I miss baby so much! I just sent him a letter last week. does anyone know how soon it takes for them to be able to respond to the letters?

My sister graduated back in may and im proud to declare that she is a marine. the 13 weeks my family and I had to live without her was a long journey but in the end it was all worth it. i couldnt be prouder and im happy to say that i see a future in the corps. OORAHH! SEMPER FI. we love you marines. hang in there.

My son went to PI on August 26th, Today is his 18th birthday, We miss him soooo much, but are so proud of him. He graduates November 30th, We can't wait.

I'm thinking about joining the marines. I'm really excited, I really wanna do this. I am a female and people are really trying to talk me out of this but i really wanna do it!!!! An advice on how to handle everything?? I need to get in shape a little but more but wannt to leave asap.... Help me out thank you.

My son leaves for bootcamp on Sept.17,2007.He'll be at Parris Island SC.I'm proud of him for making a huge decision like this but at the same time I'm sad that my boy is leaving home.I'm so used to talking and seeing him everyday that I'm not sure how I'm gonna handle this.I keep those feelings to myself so that I don't discourage him.I'm already counting down the days until graduation...I know that he'll make me proud.

My son left for boot camp on July 9th. His first few letters were rather depressing and I cried for two weeks. This is his 7th week and the letters are more positive now which makes me feel so much better. He said he has learned endurance and discipline, lost weight but gained muscles. I know boot camp for the marines is the hardest thing anyone can go through and I hope and pray he makes it through the crucible. I can't wait for his graduation on October 5th.

Chris

My nephew is enlisted in the Marines and leaves for boot camp on June 18, 2008, just after HS graduation. I would like to buy him a Christmas gift that can be used in his future as a Marine, whether it is a boot camp or after graduation. Can someone give me an idea of what a proper Marine Christmas gift would be.

Thanks!

Just a note that when my son came home he said the crucible was rather fun although I was very worried about him going through it. He said the worst of it all was the mind games they go through. So try not to worry about the crucible. May God Bless.

Diane

Our Son is at Parris Island Bootcamp now and will be graduating Sept 21. We are proud of him, pray for him as he gets ready to go through the crucible.

At most high school graduation ceremonies, the principal or someone will say that that'll be a day that the students will never forget.. WRONG!!! High school graduation was only the 20 day mark before I left for Parris Island.... Oh, yeah, it sucked, but standing tall in your greens on graduation day, with the bleachers packed full, its totally worth it. That is the day i will never forget.. 3rd Bn, I. Co. Plt. 3076.. D.I. SSGT STEWART, D.I. SGT FERNALD, AND S.D.I. SSGT KARREN.. The men who made me who I am today. To all families, thank you for being patient and waiting for your loved one to come back.. You'r fixin to be extremely proud. To all those who are planning to visit.. Good luck and enjoy your visit.. OOrah!!!

I just watched my friend's niece's graduation on video, except she graduated from the Coast Guard in NJ and she was complaining about the heat(!) and the treatment (claims CG bootcamp is the toughest after Marine bootcamp!) and the time (8 weeks) - I didn't want to disrespect her platoon(?) and their great accomplishment, but my brother is a Marine and I was really struggling to bite my tongue... the silent drill team was particularly pathetic.

Hi Lorraine,
As I mentioned my son graduated July 6th.When you arrive there you will be able to make one call but you will have to say just what is on the paper and there will be no conversation. What I did do was get my son a phone card so when he was at the airport and hotel he was able to call home briefly.Another note after graduation unless you go back a day earlier do not take the Greyhound bus my son had a mix up the bus was an hour late and they do not care also his luggage was lost and I had to meet up with him in Richmond and drive him back to base so he would not be late. Going by the time on the ticket would have been fine if it ran as scheduled.A reminder again for your family to take binoculars to graduation because it is hard to spot your loved one. My son had excess weight to lose and great if you do it before going in it will be easier on your PT. Running everyday seemed to help him alot as well. Best wishes and may God Bless you as you begin this journey of defending the country.

Diane H.

Great website! I have an 18 year old granddaughter that will graduate from boot camp on August 17, 2007. In the first letter received from her, she was second guessing her decision to join the Marines. After several weeks into boot camp she wrote she had made the right decision. From this point on her letters have been very uplifting for those of us waiting and praying for her success. She will return to college on August 28th, her second year. As a family, we are very proud of her decisions to attend college and join the Marines. Our family looks forward to attending her graduation at PI and the changes this will make in her life. May God Bless all military personnel with safety, wisdom and good health.

i am will be going to PI in November for bootcamp. i am so excited wish i could leave today. but i have some wieght to lose and some physical strengthening to do. i can't wait to step off that bus and see the same place my dad became a marine at back during Vietnam. if you have any words of advice please email me. lorrainekennedy86@gmail.com

Hi Everyone,

Well I went to the Graduation on July 6th, 2007 for my son it was great seeing him if I were to recognize him he lost around 40 pounds. Family day as well as graduation day was very nice. I did not seem to run in to any issues with eating on Paris Island things ran smooth. It is quite interesting some of the things you will hear from your new Marine. A suggestion I would give anyone going to the Graduation is take Binoculars because all of the Marines look alike unless you can get a close up on a camera. The tears never stopped all weekend happiness is seeing my son was over whelming after 3 months I just can not imagine when they get deployed for a long period of time the thought just makes me totally sick inside. I also stayed at the Days Inn and everything went smoothe for me. My sons class did not graduate on the Parade Deck because of the hot weather which my son was real disappointed about that. Good luck to the next graduation class and my prayers go out to all who is serving our country for our freedom.

Diane

This is for Janell & Rebeca lucatero:

Thank you for waiting I been having some family emergencies so I couldn�t keep up. I hope that your husband Janell its ok now I tell my husband Alvaro all about him he did get excited an nervous because I hope that everything goes fine with your husband he understand that for them and us 2 more weeks its like a month but keep it up you will see that time goes more faster that one can possibly imagine I just try to keep busy write him every day and count the days that he have left not the ones that he have been away. Please count me in as one of your friends my e-mail is ximenalesmes@hotmail.com
Mrs. Rebeca been a mom seems more difficult now that he is away I can only imagine how much you miss him I try to be with my mother in law as much as I can and give her everything I can to let her know that I am with her and that she can share all with me.
My husband told me in a letter and I hope is your son his talking about that asked him for me, he was very happy to know that I am actually outside and inside the boot camp with him and that people care, Thank you for he info about the package care he told me about the power bars I am going to send them this Monday 25 as much I can so there will be to share for at least some, I also going to send ice hot cream because his knees hurt every time they march (every day).
I hope it is not to late for this reply and we can stay in contact.
Be strong, smart, self-confidence and all ways give all your heart.
35 Days to go!!!!!!!!

Hello to all who's child is graduating on July 6th Parris Island, guess they are through the crucible by now huh.I will be praying as well and just simply can hardly wait to see them. I will be traveling from Maryland for the graduation.

Lacey anyone can go to the graduation, it is not ticketed either

Sheeka,
They are given a list of things they can or can not receive they receive pretty much all they need and will certainly need alot of love and support from all.

I am so glad there are other people feeling my lonliness for the marine corp recruits my friend left for boot camp on the 10th of June, i can't help but to think of him, is there a list of things i can send to him? or comfort messages for him and i to help me get through this? can someone please send me an email with lists? you have my support.

Does anyone know the details on Marine graduations? Can anyone go? Is it ticketed?

Hi Diane H, Kathy Howard and Stephanie - My son is also graduating on July 6th. They will do just fine on the crucible starting this morning at 0200. But I'll still be praying for them all. :-P

My son left Easter Sunday to begin his training. Graduation is coming fast on July 6th but not fast enough for me. I know he will be going through the crucible this week and I am totally sick thinking about it. Reading about it I just can not imagine going through. Anyone have personal experience going through the crucible that can ease a parents mind or is there no easing?

I went into the Marine Corps to serve my country for 4 years; I stayed 20....I miss it every day. I can think of no brotherhood on earth that I could be more proud to be a part of.

thanks for putting up this website, it really helps be understand what and where my boyfriend is right now! and i'd like to wish him the best of luck and let him know that he's making us proud right now! and i miss you baby

thank you again,
Dominique

ps..i hope you don't mind me adding the extra wishes above!

I can't wait.

my son just went to bootcamp i wonuld like to fine photos of them i heard thay have a web site if you no of this please wright thank you and god bless

Thanks so much Rebecca. I was reading on the marine website about all they have to go through and I can't help but think about all the people and all they go through during these three months. Everyone of them are in my prayers as well as the ones over seas and their familes!

When my son arrived on Parris Island, I got a phone call that night. They had him read a script from the wall and only that. Later, about 7-8 days I got a pre-printed letter from the recruit depot that my son filled in his mailing address information. The recruiter who the recruit signed up with should have all the mailing address but maybe be missing the platoon number. Within a week, I received another letter, also a pre-printed one. This was from the Commander of the Recruit Depot. It gave basic information on what to not send and also included a full mailing address. So, whomever the recruit listed as the main family member, that's who should be getting this letters. You can get that information from that person or the recruiter. I hope this helps you Lacey.

My brother just left for Parris Island on Sunday and I was planning on writing to him but don't have any information yet. I know he'll do fine he's a fighter, by far, but I just wanted to let him know we love hima nd miss him. Does anyone have any information as to how I can go about writing to him. Thanks

PLATOON 3057 3India Co.
This is to Ximena and all of you ladies who have a recruit in this batallion!!! My son is a recruit in this platoon. He left on May 1 and is expected to graduate on July 27. I've received several letters from Cody and it sounds like the platoon is doing just great! My son requested powder gatorade and power bars. The recruiter said to send enough for the entire platoon and more because sometimes the DI's get mad and make them eat everything in front of everyone at one time if they did not get enough for all. So, I've sent 75 quart size packets of Gatorade to them. I've also sent hygiene items he's asked for, spray deoderant, body soap liquid, softies for the boots, foot powder, cough drops-for the platoon, etc. I'd love to exchange emails or phone calls with any of you out there. I hope they all make it and we all get to meet each other on July 27! HOORAY!!!!

My daughter left may 21st from st.Louis Mo. How can I see pictures of her in boot camp?

go marines

MY NEPHEW LEFT FOR PARRIS ISLAND MAY 21, WHAT WAS THE WEBSITE WE CAN GO TO FOR PICS OF TRAINING? WE ALL ARE MISSING HIM, ALTHOUGH WE ARE SO VERY PROUD OF HIM.

my husband left in february and was supposed to be home may 18 but apparently they thought something was wrong with his heart and pulled him out for 2 weeks now he comes home june 1 I cant wait to see my marine

...I was just on Parris Island for another graduation..I saw 1048 platton was only 12 feet in front of them...I saw my son..yahooooo...they were marching back to there building. They looked good.

Kathy Howard and Stephanie,

My boyfriend is in the exact same plt! He is also graduating July 6th. His name is Ryan Fife. He sent me a letter stating that we can find the pics of their plt but I have not been able to locate them. Feel free to email me personally. moriahsmommie@comcast.net

My cousin Craig Just graduated 2

What percentage of men make it through Parris Island Boot camp? Thanks.

stephanie...my son is also in Plt 1048 Bn 1 Co A..set to graduate July 6th. I miss him so much, and I do hope there is a site to see the pics. I will say my son is telling me it gets better everyday.

hi ximena, wow im happy that you had responded back to me. My husband is in plt 3061. He is RCT Anthony LOuisa.Well when you write to your husband let him know to look for mine so maybe they can start to become friend. Like we are going to be. My husbands graduation got pushed back because he hurt his ankel which is common, with alot of recuirts. What is your husbands name so I can let my husband no in his next letter i will send him. I haven't received any letters yet just an address to send him letters. talk to you soon.. have a good day

Hello Janell I was felling very lonely I am grateful knowing that you have a similar situation. My husband is from Hialeah, Fl he is in Indian battalion 3 co hopefully yours if they left the same day they are in the same platoon my is in 3057 I haven’t receive any letter from him just 2 filling the blanks and that’s all. I send him a care package Priority mail (cough drops, gold bond powder and foam insoles for their combat boots just in case cheap ones because we don’t know if they will received). That’s about it.
Please let me know if your husband write you or call you, did he tell you why they push back his graduation, did he call you little that I know my husband platoon gradated July 27. Lets don’t lose contact.

THIS IS TO XIMENA, MY HUSBAND LEFT THE SAME DAY YOUR HUSBAND LEFT. I KNOW HOW U FEEL SINCE WE JUST GOT MARRIED 4-16-07. IM COUNTING DOWN THE DAYS TOO. I GOT A CALL THE OTHER DAY FROM HIM TELLING ME HIS GRADUATION IS PUSHED BACK 2WKS. IF YOU CAN SEND ME THE INFORMATION TO SEND HIM (MY HUSBAND)A PERSONNAL CARE PACKAGE. I WILL BE HIGHLY GREATFUL

Hello I just want to share how much I miss my husbant Specially because we just marry (12-09-06) he left on April 30-07 I try to write him every day but not jut to remind him about how much I miss him but to let him know how proud I’m and to be strong I try to just give him my support in any way I can from hear I send him personal care item that I research that they need. I know we miss our recruits and future marines very much but since they get home sick over there I just let him know that I am next to him in every step of the way that I miss him a little because I picture all over my heart and I fell him every day by my side and also that I am counting the days for his graduation and hopefully be there before the crucible to se the anchor.. Ceremony and be with him before every body, I just want him to fell happy and I will be waiting for him, I also send him comics and photos to put his main in a happy place (ja ja).
Babe Alvaro Angulo I love you very much!!!! Thanks for letting me share this with you.

MY HUSBAND JUST WENT TO BOOT CAMP AND I MISSED HE'S CALL LATE IN THE NIGHT (IM SORRY) I HOPE HE CAN CALL ME AGAIN I MISS HIM ALREADY.. ALL RECURITS KEEP UR HEAD UP.

Hey mal. you supid c*** costering c** recepticle, why and the f*** are you talkin s*** about my g** d** Marine corps. if you are such a f***ing hardass we can f***ing take this down in the swamps in Parris Island, where REAL MARINES are made.

NOTE: Edited for language.

13 weeks basic training..... what a walk in the park. Try do Royal marine training, 1 year of basic training before you even start your speciality. If your an officer you have another year on top of that, and thats just the start. !3 weeks would be easy. try doing the murder mile and see how it feels to be the walking dead.
But your right, marines are the best. Royal marines that is.

hi,
i was just wondering does anyone know of a website that actually takes pics of the plt?
i heard that some di's will take pics of the recuits while going thru boot camp and post it on a certain website for family to see. my husband is plt 1048 1 bn a co, parris island, sc.
thanks for your time!

my brother is in tha marines.

i loved parris island so much that i have decided to join as well. i went to see someone graduate, and when he took us around to see everything... i fell in love. i saw the pools the OCs the barracks the "pit" the marsh the DIs and wanted more. i dont know why but i want to be yelled at i want to be humiliated. I want to EARN the title of being a marine. and that is what i intend to do.

I like the way everything is spun like the Corp stand for Integrity - Discipline - Truth - Justice and the AMERICAN WAY. I especially like the way that little mention is made of the recruits that were killed or harmed physically or mentally by the inhumane treatment they received in boot camp in the 1960's. Though when pressed they admit to the killings and treatment of the recruits that even the Geneva convention would dissapprove of, they have never made effort to make restitution to those they have harmed. The treatment of the prisoners at Abu Garib was mild compared to the treatment to many of the recruits during the 60's. For those people who think that this should be a right of passage for all young Americans after high school I would think again. I grew up having patriotic chills everytime the flag was marched by me in a parade and I could not wait to enlist. I enlisted two days after turning 17 and reality set in immediately after steooing foot on Parris Island. The first day, after getting indoctrinated in what was affectionately called the shock treatment, we forced to march in beach sand "A..hole to belly button". When one recruit fell down we were not permitted to assisst him (so much for compassion or comradery) but we had to march ON him. I could go on and on about the autrocities committed in the name of the Proud the Marines. I mentione Abu Garib earlier and some may be thinking that what I mentioned is nothing like it but here are two facts; 12 recruits killed by marching them into quicksand, one recruit forced to parade up and down the barracks with his privates in one hand and his weapon in the other shouting "this is my gun it is for fun this is my weapon it is my friend".

My fiancee just left for bootcamp at Parris Island a few days ago. I miss him to death already. I just wish he would come home. This better be a really good thing for him or I will die because the only thing harder than going through bootcamp, is waiting for the only person you love with all your heart, your only friend, the person you wake up every day to see to get out of bootcamp. Trust me, its more excrutiating for me waiting here, pregnant with our first child for him to return home and I cry constantly. It feels like its been years since I've seen him and I hav 12 more weeks left to go. I just want to die.

my boyfriend graduates april 6th... i am a marine corp brat... my dad was a retired 1stsgt. he died in october. not long after my boyfriend decided that he wanted to make him proud now by following in his footsteps.

I am no longer an active duty Marine ,but like we say once a Marine always a Marine. I joined 16 years ago and I will never regret it. I also agree that every young kid should be required to join. I may be a civilian ,but will always live my life as a Marine.
SEMPER FI

I am in Northern California and my daughter is currently a recruit at Parris Island (Plt 4011 4th BN P co). She is in her 6th week now (just finished swim qual) and she LOVES IT! I am off to Parris Island on April 6th for her graduation!

Hi Rhonda,
My son left Dec. 3 too- What Platoon is he in- my son is in the 2018- graduates 3/2/07
I'm so excited about going down there- great website!

what can i send to a female marine in boot camp for christmas?

my son Andrew left on Dec.3 2007 i hope hes ok and we all miss him

3 recruiters came to my class today and they made me want to become a marine

I can't wait to get to boot camp i habe so much drive and passion now i cant wait to see what you'll make me oh yeah marine.

Since you had the oppertunity to visit Parris Island I thought you might be interested in the Marine Christmas Stocking, the CAMOSOCK. www.camosock.com It was designed by a Marine for his Marine daughter in 2004 as a special gift the first year she was away from home for Christmas as a new Marine. They are now available to all Marine families. Now that is GOOD NEWS!! 100% "Made in USA". When is the last time you saw a Christmas Stocking made by an American manufacture and not from China?? They did a beautiful job for me. I am the designer and a Marine (1963-1967) but more important the Father of a beautiful Marine. Ooh-Rah!!!

i like that im ganna come to boot camp

Cynthia -- There is a WONDERFUL website that is for friends and family of recruits on PI that I am totally addicted to (my boyfriend left on 9/27). Go to www.ezboard.com and register. Then type in a search for "Parris Island" and it will direct you to the site. The board is run by wives of DI (Drill Instructors) on PI, so you know that they know that all info you get on there is accurate.

My son has been gone for over a week to Marine Boot Camp in P.I., S.C. If there is a website I could go to for day to day or weekly activities going on, would someone please direct me.

I get all choked up with the thought of my nephew, Ryan who is graduating boot camp as a Marine. I could not be more proud, and I feel the loyalty to my country as an American.