Just got back from PLC Jr's. This video is great. You basically hit everything. You even talked about the fox river socks which saved my feet by the way. Best socks out there.
I also recommend lip balm (Carmex) and foot-powder. Again this is my must have, as an 0369 retired Staff Sergeant these items where essential. Semper Fi SSgt Gamba 0369
Awesome video man! Extremely useful. I am OCC 225 and will be going to OCS this summer. At the moment I am gathering my gear and will definitely use your recommendations. What are good running shoes you recommend? Also, do you know or have heard about candidates bringing bore snakes for cleaning there service rifles? Thanks.
Regarding running shoes, everyone has their preference and certain brands work better for some people than others. I recommend that you go to a running store like "Luke's Locker" (or another running store) to ask them what shoe would best fit your running style. Tell them that you are looking to run 3 miles about twice a week. They will help you find the right shoe. Some candidates bring a bore snake. You don't have to but it could be an "optional" item that you could bring and share with the platoon. They will appreciate that.
For the COVID cycles (this will probably be more likely for the fall OCC since 2nd Inc is in session along with the other 10-weekers), know that haircuts are now $10.50 and they NEED EXACT CHANGE. Plan to bring some change or bring about 11 weeks worth of $1s (that’s just to make sure you have more than enough) to help make sure you can get that 50 cents. You can in theory cover that for your rack mate for the extra 50 cents and have them pay you back after your time if you care to get paid back for the few bucks extra you might pay. Just a piece of advice. Also, push yourself, good luck, and Semper Fi.
I am prepping for PLC right now, and man I was shocked that we actually have to bring items (clothing, hygiene, etc). When I reported to MCRD PI, we were told to bring ID, med prescription, and one religious item
I'd recommend that you right the name on the boots on the inside of the boot on the collar. It minimizes the possibility of wearing down my name is still in mine after 5+ years. You could also do the same on the inside of the tongue of your go fasters as well. Also put your name on EVERYTHING. Shit gets "LOST" all the time and it's always better to know where your stuff is at anytime when its gets "LOST."
when i went to benning OCS you could bring nothing other than your clothes and toiletries. these were taken after the first day and replaced by new issue. i guess it has changed drastically
I'm in the OCC program, working on getting ready for winter OCS in January 2019. I've read and watched different videos on things to bring and a lot said to bring black compression shorts to keep from chaffing. Would you recommend these to use other than when wearing the skivy shorts? Also, do you think theres anything to bring for winter ocs as compared to summer that might help? I hate the cold haha.
I'm a distance runner and like a certain brand and model if shoe to avoid injury. However, it only comes in pink/grey. Are there limits to go fasters colors? Edit: Found another comment that answered that. Thanks. Can I bring a bicycle to get off base?
Thank you for your feedback! That's great that you aspire to be a Marine Corps Officer! You will need to go to college and have a bachelor's degree first before you can commission. I recommend that you join an ROTC while in college. This will improve your chances to get selected at the board once you apply. Once you get to college, meet with the local OSO (Officer Selection Officer) and establish a good relationship with him. Communicate how much this is important to you. He can have you ship off to PLC (Platoon Leader's Class) Juniors one summer and then PLC Seniors the following summer. You will bear the title of Marine after completing both PLC's but will only be a commissioned officer once you have your 4 year college degree.
Im 28 years old living in NYC and I’m in the process of joining OCS. Is there any websites that can help prepare me for the ASVAB as well as physical training?
Great video, I have a couple questions, where did you get your carrying case for your pens & pencils, your personal hygiene case, and the backpack that is shown at the end of the video? Also - whose job is it to smell the candidates breath?
Hi Mary, the notebook carrying case is issued at OCS. I bought the hygiene case at Target before shipping off. I bought the daypack at the MCX (Marine Corps Exchange) on base at OCS (Quantico VA). The sergeant instructors of your platoon would be the ones to smell your breath.
Can you cut your own hair while in OCS? As in bringing your own clippers? What running shoes would you recommend? Minimalist running shoes or balanced? Xero trail and hoka one one are the ones I've been looking at but I don't know what's best. Would you recommend the Merrell trail glove? And how possible would it be to receive Lasic Eye surgery to correct a stigmatism that you would have if you're in the Enlisted marine reserves whilst in college?
No, you are not allowed to cut your own hair at OCS. You will be required to get a hair cut every week at the designated hair dresser on base. They will take you there. You will need to pay in cash. It was $9 when I went through but I believe it's $10 for a cut now. You do not have a choice to go or not. Do not bring your clippers, you will not be allowed to use it. Do not bring minimalist running shoes; you may get shin splints. Do not go for the cross fit shoes either. I recommend regular running shoes with cushioning. Hokas are fine. I believe the military will pay for Lasic but I couldn't tell you how that works unfortunately. You would need to ask your chain of command.
I got that watch after OCS but I do not think it would be much of a problem since most of the time you are not allowed to wear a watch. Only billet holders wear watches. Get an all black watch if you want to play it safe.
Hi Velasquez, unfortunately I do not know if they are authorized or not at OCS. I recommend asking your OSO (Officer Selection Officer). As far as the boot itself, I have never tried them so I don't know if they're a good boot or not. Sorry I couldn't be of much help. Good Luck!
so quick question now that i'm thinking about it, you keep all of this stuff in a wall locker correct? I'm just curious because this is a lot of stuff, don't get me wrong i'm more then likely going to follow your list then others I've found simply because this video put me at ease. so yeah where do you keep off of this stuff. since you are issued gear while down there.
You can put the items in the wall locker, foot locker, or contraband. I recommend splitting it up between all 3. Put the spare liberty khaki pants, polo, and black socks in contraband. For the rest, it's up to your discretion. However, I recommend putting the important items that need quick access in the wall locker so that you can get to it quicker (Moonbeam + Watch, for after lights out). The reason being that your foot locker may be beneath your rackmate's footlocker so you would have to take down his foot locker to reach yours. When time is of the essence, you cannot afford to be doing that. Put items (such as woodland trousers and blouses) that you do not use often in the bottom of the footlocker (under the 2 trays) because they are not easily accessible. Organize your items so that you know where they are in order to avoid wasting time looking for them.
Awesome video with good information! I'm about a month out from PLC jrs, how exactly do you fly with a pair of scissors/nail clippers or can you check your bag? Do the fox river socks have to be a certain length? (Mid calf, knee high etc.) and lastly would you recommend getting a stamp kit and athletic tape to have prep made name tapes for gear before shipping? I'm not sure what kind of time I'll have available to me so I'm thinking in terms of prep prior to OCS.
Good point, I'm not sure what the FAA/TSA regulation is regarding scissors. I'm pretty sure that nail clippers aren't a problem though. Bear in mind that it's $25 to check in a bag with Delta. No, the fox river socks do not have to be a specific size. mid calf or knee high doesn't make a difference. I would favor the mid calf size even though I got the knee high ones. You could bring a stamp kit but they will issue you one. The name tapes will be done using the stencils they issue you; not with a stamp kit. You can bring athletic tape as extras, it can't hurt. They issue you a lot of athletic tape and you can always buy more at the MCX when on liberty. Good Luck!
Are you talking about the pack at the end of the video? I bought that at the Marine Corps Exchange (MCX) at Quantico. I'll have to check the manufacturer's name inside. I don't have it with me at the moment.
Ok I have a question. I'm 21 & wanted to enlist in the marine corps first. & later on become a officer. My question is: Does the age matters to go to OCS? For example: from pfc all the way to gysgt then go to OCS. Is it possible to go?
No, do not bring hair cutting supplies. You are NOT allowed to cut your own hair. You would get a "chit" for that. They take you to cut your hair weekly. Bring cash to pay for it. I listed a few helpful things in the description.
No, age does not matter much for OCS. Even beyond the age limit of 28 years old, you can get an age waiver as long as you do well on the PFT. You can very well go up the ranks and then drop an OCS packet. I had a Staff Sergeant in my platoon who did exactly that.
This may have been answered in the comments, but what kind of backpack can you bring to carry all of these things in? Can you use the backpack while you are there? I noticed you have one in the video, did your OSO issue this bag, seems different then the ruck sack they issue you there? Thanks!
You will not be allowed to wear contacts. For those who use bifocals, they will issue you a pair to your prescription. You should have already communicated your lens prescription to your recruiter or they may do that at MEPS. I do not wear glasses so I do not know how the process works exactly.
Yes. CMatthewsfan is right. You can bring your phone. It will go into contraband for the first 3 weeks. You will get it back on your first Liberty but will have to put it back into contraband before Liberty is secured Sunday evening. You will get to use your phone at each Liberty.
Just got back from PLC Jr's. This video is great. You basically hit everything. You even talked about the fox river socks which saved my feet by the way. Best socks out there.
Blisters... get spenco (second skin) liquid water gel. You will never feel it. You will not regret it. Not much changed since '73
bring lots of motivation and u be aight
I also recommend lip balm (Carmex) and foot-powder. Again this is my must have, as an 0369 retired Staff Sergeant these items where essential. Semper Fi SSgt Gamba 0369
I have never gotten blisters in my time in the Marine Corps. I don’t know how, but that’s just facts.
Your videos are always so informative and helpful. Great job!
Awesome video man! Extremely useful. I am OCC 225 and will be going to OCS this summer. At the moment I am gathering my gear and will definitely use your recommendations. What are good running shoes you recommend? Also, do you know or have heard about candidates bringing bore snakes for cleaning there service rifles? Thanks.
Regarding running shoes, everyone has their preference and certain brands work better for some people than others. I recommend that you go to a running store like "Luke's Locker" (or another running store) to ask them what shoe would best fit your running style. Tell them that you are looking to run 3 miles about twice a week. They will help you find the right shoe. Some candidates bring a bore snake. You don't have to but it could be an "optional" item that you could bring and share with the platoon. They will appreciate that.
Got selected for PLC this summer. Thank you!
Going to seniors now
Great content. Definitely helped me out before I ship out for PLC combined on June 3rd!!! Any info/advice on billets/LRC/SULE 1&2?
I will make more videos on those subjects!
ill fuckin see you there, im PLC combined too
PLC combined as well! Great Video!
PLC Combined also
Combined here too
Great video. Are you allowed to bring a removable retainer? Braces were removed a few years ago but would hate for that ortho bill to go to waste.
For the COVID cycles (this will probably be more likely for the fall OCC since 2nd Inc is in session along with the other 10-weekers), know that haircuts are now $10.50 and they NEED EXACT CHANGE. Plan to bring some change or bring about 11 weeks worth of $1s (that’s just to make sure you have more than enough) to help make sure you can get that 50 cents. You can in theory cover that for your rack mate for the extra 50 cents and have them pay you back after your time if you care to get paid back for the few bucks extra you might pay. Just a piece of advice. Also, push yourself, good luck, and Semper Fi.
For the time being, they’re not allowing cash transactions. You must use a credit card for all gear and haircut purchases.
I am prepping for PLC right now, and man I was shocked that we actually have to bring items (clothing, hygiene, etc). When I reported to MCRD PI, we were told to bring ID, med prescription, and one religious item
I'd recommend that you right the name on the boots on the inside of the boot on the collar. It minimizes the possibility of wearing down my name is still in mine after 5+ years. You could also do the same on the inside of the tongue of your go fasters as well. Also put your name on EVERYTHING. Shit gets "LOST" all the time and it's always better to know where your stuff is at anytime when its gets "LOST."
when i went to benning OCS you could bring nothing other than your clothes and toiletries. these were taken after the first day and replaced by new issue. i guess it has changed drastically
That's how it was in 84' when I was there. Boy has it changed.
Very helpful!! And well done
I'm in the OCC program, working on getting ready for winter OCS in January 2019. I've read and watched different videos on things to bring and a lot said to bring black compression shorts to keep from chaffing. Would you recommend these to use other than when wearing the skivy shorts?
Also, do you think theres anything to bring for winter ocs as compared to summer that might help? I hate the cold haha.
I'm a distance runner and like a certain brand and model if shoe to avoid injury. However, it only comes in pink/grey. Are there limits to go fasters colors?
Edit: Found another comment that answered that. Thanks. Can I bring a bicycle to get off base?
I was an instructor at OCS and no you can't bring a bike. You're allowed to drive your vehicle if you have one
What about shampoo and soap for showering? Will we need to bring those for ourselves or are we issued those things? Sorry, if I sound stupid.
Nice video, I'm still in middle school but I've always wanted to be an officer in the Marine Corps
Thank you for your feedback! That's great that you aspire to be a Marine Corps Officer! You will need to go to college and have a bachelor's degree first before you can commission. I recommend that you join an ROTC while in college. This will improve your chances to get selected at the board once you apply. Once you get to college, meet with the local OSO (Officer Selection Officer) and establish a good relationship with him. Communicate how much this is important to you. He can have you ship off to PLC (Platoon Leader's Class) Juniors one summer and then PLC Seniors the following summer. You will bear the title of Marine after completing both PLC's but will only be a commissioned officer once you have your 4 year college degree.
Officer Candidate OCS
Wow thank you for the feedback it will sure help me in the future 👍
So what's the status on being a marine officer now?
If I'm going in the winter. Does the list change at all?
Does it matter if your running shoes are eccentric? Mine are bright purple and orange
No it does not really matter. I would probably avoid neon colors or bright pink.
Note: if you rub the soap for several minutes you will find you have shaving cream.
What is that daypack you used at the end to pack everything?
are the collered shirts and khackis the same requirement for women?
Yes
Im 28 years old living in NYC and I’m in the process of joining OCS. Is there any websites that can help prepare me for the ASVAB as well as physical training?
So don't bring any blades but bring scissors?
Wait, you get liberty at OCS?
About half way through you start getting weekend and then 24 hr libo
Great video, I have a couple questions, where did you get your carrying case for your pens & pencils, your personal hygiene case, and the backpack that is shown at the end of the video?
Also - whose job is it to smell the candidates breath?
Hi Mary, the notebook carrying case is issued at OCS. I bought the hygiene case at Target before shipping off. I bought the daypack at the MCX (Marine Corps Exchange) on base at OCS (Quantico VA).
The sergeant instructors of your platoon would be the ones to smell your breath.
Can you cut your own hair while in OCS? As in bringing your own clippers?
What running shoes would you recommend? Minimalist running shoes or balanced?
Xero trail and hoka one one are the ones I've been looking at but I don't know what's best.
Would you recommend the Merrell trail glove?
And how possible would it be to receive Lasic Eye surgery to correct a stigmatism that you would have if you're in the Enlisted marine reserves whilst in college?
No, you are not allowed to cut your own hair at OCS. You will be required to get a hair cut every week at the designated hair dresser on base. They will take you there. You will need to pay in cash. It was $9 when I went through but I believe it's $10 for a cut now. You do not have a choice to go or not. Do not bring your clippers, you will not be allowed to use it.
Do not bring minimalist running shoes; you may get shin splints. Do not go for the cross fit shoes either. I recommend regular running shoes with cushioning. Hokas are fine.
I believe the military will pay for Lasic but I couldn't tell you how that works unfortunately. You would need to ask your chain of command.
They don't mind that bright yellow-green on that watch?
I got that watch after OCS but I do not think it would be much of a problem since most of the time you are not allowed to wear a watch. Only billet holders wear watches. Get an all black watch if you want to play it safe.
What was the name of the wrist watch you displayed?
Opinion on Danner reckoning boots for ocs?
Hi Velasquez, unfortunately I do not know if they are authorized or not at OCS. I recommend asking your OSO (Officer Selection Officer). As far as the boot itself, I have never tried them so I don't know if they're a good boot or not. Sorry I couldn't be of much help. Good Luck!
so quick question now that i'm thinking about it, you keep all of this stuff in a wall locker correct? I'm just curious because this is a lot of stuff, don't get me wrong i'm more then likely going to follow your list then others I've found simply because this video put me at ease. so yeah where do you keep off of this stuff. since you are issued gear while down there.
You can put the items in the wall locker, foot locker, or contraband. I recommend splitting it up between all 3. Put the spare liberty khaki pants, polo, and black socks in contraband. For the rest, it's up to your discretion. However, I recommend putting the important items that need quick access in the wall locker so that you can get to it quicker (Moonbeam + Watch, for after lights out). The reason being that your foot locker may be beneath your rackmate's footlocker so you would have to take down his foot locker to reach yours. When time is of the essence, you cannot afford to be doing that. Put items (such as woodland trousers and blouses) that you do not use often in the bottom of the footlocker (under the 2 trays) because they are not easily accessible. Organize your items so that you know where they are in order to avoid wasting time looking for them.
I appreciate it Thanks. my nerves are getting the better of me now that we're 2 weeks out. thanks
It's ok. That's normal! Good Luck!
I prefer to shave with a safety razor. Are those small double sided replacement blades allowed?
My son also uses a safety razor. He reports on 9/5 for OCS. He was told not to bring a DE safety razor because of the razors.
Are candidates allowed to wear a watch during the PFT to keep track of their running time?
From what I’ve heard, no.
Are you sure we are permitted to bring scissors?
Yes. You can bring scissors.
What about bug spray? Is there sand fleas or gnats?
Does Bates Hot Weather work in OCS?
Awesome video with good information! I'm about a month out from PLC jrs, how exactly do you fly with a pair of scissors/nail clippers or can you check your bag? Do the fox river socks have to be a certain length? (Mid calf, knee high etc.) and lastly would you recommend getting a stamp kit and athletic tape to have prep made name tapes for gear before shipping? I'm not sure what kind of time I'll have available to me so I'm thinking in terms of prep prior to OCS.
Good point, I'm not sure what the FAA/TSA regulation is regarding scissors. I'm pretty sure that nail clippers aren't a problem though. Bear in mind that it's $25 to check in a bag with Delta. No, the fox river socks do not have to be a specific size. mid calf or knee high doesn't make a difference. I would favor the mid calf size even though I got the knee high ones. You could bring a stamp kit but they will issue you one. The name tapes will be done using the stencils they issue you; not with a stamp kit. You can bring athletic tape as extras, it can't hurt. They issue you a lot of athletic tape and you can always buy more at the MCX when on liberty. Good Luck!
Good to know! Thanks for the information!
Is there a model number or manufacturer on that pack?
Are you talking about the pack at the end of the video? I bought that at the Marine Corps Exchange (MCX) at Quantico. I'll have to check the manufacturer's name inside. I don't have it with me at the moment.
Officer Candidate OCS Yes, sir.
How many rolls of clear tape did you end up bringing?
Just 1 roll is more than sufficient. Good Luck!
Ok I have a question. I'm 21 & wanted to enlist in the marine corps first. & later on become a officer. My question is: Does the age matters to go to OCS? For example: from pfc all the way to gysgt then go to OCS. Is it possible to go?
& last question do you bring your own haircutting supplies?
No, do not bring hair cutting supplies. You are NOT allowed to cut your own hair. You would get a "chit" for that. They take you to cut your hair weekly. Bring cash to pay for it. I listed a few helpful things in the description.
No, age does not matter much for OCS. Even beyond the age limit of 28 years old, you can get an age waiver as long as you do well on the PFT.
You can very well go up the ranks and then drop an OCS packet. I had a Staff Sergeant in my platoon who did exactly that.
You have been very helpful, I will not forget this. Thank you so much!
You're welcome! Good Luck!
What do you recommend we keep in our vehicle? Thanks
Maybe extra sets of items on the packing list. Just in case they break of get lost.
Use a lighter on the Irish pennants
This may have been answered in the comments, but what kind of backpack can you bring to carry all of these things in? Can you use the backpack while you are there? I noticed you have one in the video, did your OSO issue this bag, seems different then the ruck sack they issue you there? Thanks!
Is Lotirmin Ultra still allowed for candidates to bring to OCS or is that considered contraband now?
They will issue you Lotrimin Ultra. It is not contraband.
ok thank you Sir
What about glasses/contact lenses? Will you have time to put on contacts in the morning?
Don't take them out. Trust me there is no problem with sleeping in them. I've literally done it for a month before
You just wake up a bit uncomfortable and hard to blink
You will not be allowed to wear contacts. For those who use bifocals, they will issue you a pair to your prescription. You should have already communicated your lens prescription to your recruiter or they may do that at MEPS. I do not wear glasses so I do not know how the process works exactly.
DPkoTo Blevins
So they dont issue any of this for you?
No, they will not issue these items to you.
Can you bring your own clippers to OCS and shave your own head for free instead of the ten dollars each week?
Hey man I have that same question! I cut my own hair and was wondering if I could bring my own clippers and save me the money?
13:52
Can you bring your phone?
Logan McCallie yes you can but you wont be getting it back till the third weekend. I recommend taking a portable charger for when youre on liberty.
Yes. CMatthewsfan is right. You can bring your phone. It will go into contraband for the first 3 weeks. You will get it back on your first Liberty but will have to put it back into contraband before Liberty is secured Sunday evening. You will get to use your phone at each Liberty.
Ear plugs? Are you menstrauting too?
Yeet
I pray to god I never get a 2nd lieutenant like you in my unit
Why?
Nothing dont fuken do it
Why?