Why You Will Fail and get Kicked Out of Marine Corps Bootcamp…AVOID THESE MISTAKES
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- Опубліковано 9 чер 2024
- The posting on this channel are my own and don’t represent the Marine Corps positions or opinions. My topics are based mostly on personal experience and may vary for others joining the Marine Corps.
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What part of Bootcamp scares you the most?? 😳 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe if you enjoyed the video! 😀
Honestly I'm most scared about the beginning. A few Marines have told me that's the worst part. But after a week you get used to the routine and all the yelling and it basically becomes normal.
@@yakkothedrillinstructor9052 exactly, it’s tough to get used to. I hated the beginning. No privacy and extremely uncomfortable, but it all passed.
@@yakkothedrillinstructor9052 passes*
Simeon you are awesome man.
@@a.4chanuser thank you 🙏
MCRD Parris Island, 1977. My mom died on training day 10. They fitted me with a uniform and shipped me home for 3 days. When I came back I was with the same platoon. That really helped. Semper Fi!
That's tough, glad they didn't set you back.
Your mom watched you and guided you the whole way.
@@thomasryan2679; You saw the "The D.I.", starring Jack Webb, me thinks?
I went in 1977 too… August
Sorry for your loss.
I went in on Aug 18, 1968. The first 2 weeks were the worst but after that you get used to it all and I started to enjoy how I was learning and adapting. At the end of boot camp in Parris Island I felt such a high of accomplishment it’s hard to describe. That feeling has stayed with me for 55 years. Semper Fi
Ty for your service devildog! Did you have to deploy to nam?
August 8, 1968. Totally agree with your observation. Semper Fi
Yep. I went in jan 1973. just missed vietnam. But the the first two weeks are called "receiving" theb t-1 starts (training day 1) its two weeks of hell
I went in in 68 at 17. Being a wise guy I got called out for something really stupid. After that I had a target on my forehead straight through from extra day of 8 hours pt trying to knock me out. I adjusted my attitude and took everything they threw at me. I refused to fail and did not fail. 2 tours in Nam and then got out. USMC changed my life and I never looked back. Adapt. 100 %.
Thank for your post, I keep watching these YT videos and think how stupid; shouting and running, etc, Duh I did boot camp, and continued in the Forces, different country. Just the way you said it made me realise no wonder I find these "first few days" videos annoying, after a few weeks you need to separate from the work and go to the happy zone. Important for POW training and other activities the "brass" can find. I am 58 years old and training was 40 years ago, I was just looking out the window yesterday and could still hear the shells falling on the cement and steel; machine guns.
Air Force has a 94 percent completion rate, Navy is 91 percent. Army 90 percent Marines 88 percent. If you want it bad enough you will accomplish it.
I think we started with a platoon of 78, and finished with about 48 of our original recruits back in '76.
I was a Vietnam Corpsman in 68 , but I'm here because my grandson is currently in boot camp at Parris island. He is a strong and great kid, I know he'll make it!
Thank you for your service and your grandson will come back home with a whole new level of respect for Navy corpsmen .....
Semper Fi Doc.
Doc, thank you for your service. Navy corpsmen, nurses and doctors saved my life at NSA DaNang in Feb of 70. You ROCK.
@@fredrickmillstead2804 Camp Tien Sha 68 , amazing we're still here !
@@hellskitchen10036 yeah, we made it and so many others didn't, that sucks.
I’ll be at almost 6 years in August and lemme tell you the first month of boot camp is the hardest once you get past the first month, it progressively gets easier over time. Just keep your head up, sound off, and move fast. You’ll be fine
Yeah I agree, we lost like 15-20 people from our platoon that either got dropped or got out. But pretty much all of them were in the first month. After that, mostly everyone finished if they made it that far
@@simeon_kurosky the last month is the easiest part because the DI’s will slowly back off as long as you move fast, sound off and do what you’re told to do at the moment
It’s been 53 years since I went to MCRD-SD, and stood on the yellow footprints. 1969-73. I remember like it was yesterday. I distinctly remember feeling sad that Boot Camp was ending; actually sad, because I knew who to survive there.
It helps a great deal to have a constant internal dialogue with yourself when the SHTF, center yourself, as the DI’s are all into your shit. It is very calming. Remain in control at all times. Never get angry inside, at fellow maggots who are holding you back and causing extra PT or other punishment. Realize that they are trying their best, just like you. In fact, befriend them, help them. The DI’s will notice. They notice everything. Maybe not right away, but they will notice your leadership skills.
Semper Fi.
@@simeon_kuroskywhat makes them boot someone out?
@@sithe7577 what company where you in? It's been 6 for me too well last December made 6! Delta Company Platoon 1008 RAH!
It sucks because you never wanna see someone fail. But if something like USMC boot camp doesn’t have a decent drop rate, than it isn’t hard enough.
When I was a drill instructor late '90s the separation rate on the West coast was 22 percent and 26 percent on the East coast.
I entered boot camp 60 years ago this past July and I have never regretted my time in the Corps. Just remember there’s a reason we are called: The Few The Proud. Finish boot camp and serve your time and you will always have the pride of being a U S Marine.
As a Marine who entered boot camp in August of 1957 we slept in metal buildings,no fans and drill instructors who were world war vets from ww2.
Let's not forget the Korean War.
Wow! Times have changed since my tour in the Marine Corps. A lot of tests. I went through Marine Corps boot camp in late 60's. The movie 'Full Metal Jacket" was a mirror image of my boot camp experience. I made it through. I never seen anyone get kicked out of boot camp. Only when they went UA or successfully committed suicide.
I agree on the "Full Metal Jacket" analogy, went through 50 years ago and got hit numerous times. I was extremely fit and ended up with highest PFT score for the Series, being in great physical shape is a plus, but mentally tough is probably the most important.
I went to MCRD San Diego in '66. "Full Metal Jacket" was only about 1/4 of what we went through.
Why would people commit suicide in Marine boot.?
@donald8354 I think he's talking after you finish boot and you A school.
Only way out is piss hot for drugs OR suicide.
The latter of people think that's their only option when they hit that rock bottom of bad choices in the military.
Depending on your MOS boot camp is the easiest thing you will do in your MC experience. There are rules. In bootcamp. The hikes are longer the pts are harder. The field opps are harder. Everything is harder in the fleet
Very true! 💯
Yep I made the very smart decision to join the infantry now I miss boot camp atleast I get to drink tho
Facts - I thought that things would relax when I got out of ITS (I think it's called MCT or SOI now) only to find that the misery you experienced in boot camp were just short versions of everything you experience the "entire time" in the fleet. Nothing got easier ..... just the opposite.
I spent over a year on Parris Island as a graduated Marine in a holding platoon. If you’re serious about it, you have to prepare. 1) Hike months before going to MCRD. This goes double for west coast. If you’re a couch potato, your bones won’t be conditioned and you can actually break your hip from the ruck marches, especially females. 2) study as much knowledge as you can BEFORE YOU GET THERE. I can’t tell you how many times I didn’t get smoked because I could recite knowledge I was supposed to. 3) everything is a competition. Get comfortable with competing.
this is the most valuable advice ... I've been working with my nephew preparing him for the Army Rangers, and just like you said ... he's been lifting weights, running, rucking ... getting his body ready so that the physical part of training will be much, much less of a shock than the others will have.
Amen. I was out of shape and was there an extra 2 months in what was called PCP.
At that age I could have gotten into basic shape in maybe 6 weeks before.
And don’t smoke. 5:52
@@stevenbustamante6946 PCP ... aka "pork chop platoon"
@@rarelibra it was PCP “strength” thank God.
@@stevenbustamante6946 "strength"?
Veteran Marine for 26 years and former DI. My soul mission as a 3rd or 4th hat (the Drill instructors below the strong j/ or Senior) was only to get after recruits. Complete and total emotional, mental and physical stress 24/7. Our mission was attrition thats it. We reinforced the teaching and instruction of the j and senior and absolute discipline always. And we were very good at it as most DI's are. To help you through this you have to just make sure you keep focused on the end. It will end and thousands have gone before you. One day, one moment at a time. And remember of those thousands who have gone before you they were just like you. When you make it you must also remember you have a long and historical legacy to uphold. I felt it and you will also.
Thank you so much for your service ❤❤❤❤
It’s true that “What doesn’t kill you, makes you stronger”. Eye on the prize and your only enemy is your own mind! Thank you for your service and the sacrifices you have made Brother.
If you joined the Corps, you should know what you're getting yourself into.
I wish I could join but because of multiple sports related surgeries, I cannot and it pains me to say that. My grandfather (RIP) was a Sargent in the Corps during the Korean war and I wanted to honor him by joining...not to mention that Marines are the most badass branch.
You encouraged me to join definitely.
Sorry to hear that brother.
I do want to ask though:
Do you think having 2 surgeries (a piece of my colon then a piece of my small intestine removed) will disqualify me or anything?
I had shoulder surgery because of baseball and I’m still shipping out for bootcamp soon
@@jackdaron7775 Good to know. I haven’t fully committed/decided if I’m gonna enlist yet, but if I do decide I want to do it and they told me I’m not qualified I’d be devastated.. Although I did hear a few times that “there’s a waiver for everything”, and since they’re so low on recruiting rn, that it might be more likely they’ll take ppl who would otherwise be disqualified. Well, if I’m not qualified and I decide for certain I want to do it then I hope that’s the case. I don’t know, did you see my comment above? Any input?
@@jackdaron7775 labrum tear? Or what how long did it take to heal
You can't FAIL MC Boot Camp. Do what you're told, fast and loud, and absorb what's being taught.
You can fail at anything 🤨🤨🤨
@@derricksmoothy4392 no you literally can't FAIL. It's not a pass or fail thing. You signed a contract. It's now your job. You can make mistakes bad enough to be sepped out. You can get hurt or show the Drill Instructors that you actually can't complete the training, which you can also be separated for. Along with a few other circumstances that can get your contract voided or nullified. But you can't FAIL. It's not a try out.
this is precisely what I just mentioned not 5 min earlier. If you have drive and lack of direction, the DIs can work with that all day long. All you have to do is be "teachable". Nov 1983, M Co, Plt 3089.
@@W1ckedRcL 👌🏾👌🏾👌🏾😶😶😶
with that attitude you will for sure@@derricksmoothy4392
“ Even Gomer Pyle passed boot camp.”
Word is,even Stevie wonder passed marine boot camp.
In real life he wouldn't have.
Semper Fi my brother. Great advice, never quit, never give up and always give 110% and you'll be fine.
I went through PI back in the late 90's. Our platoon started around 90 and graduated around 50. Our biggest drop reason was failure to adapt via "This recruit refuses to train." You belt that out around some brass and you never saw that platoon again. I hated my DI's, and I hated the other guys in my platoon, I kept my head down and out of as much trouble as they tried to get me in. I hated being there, and wasn't going to stay a minute longer if I could help it.
The rest of my time in the Corps wasn't too bad, I even reenlisted once. I would have stayed longer, but it was for the best we went our separate ways. "Miss the monkeys, not the circus." IYKYK
I went through Marine Corps boot camp successfully and yes it was very hard but it was a very rewarding experience after it all.
The hardest part for me in 1979 was just being the youngest guy in my platoon. I was 17 , everyone else was 18 and up. Besides that was my fear of heights , the stairway to heaven , the slide for life, and the repelling tower were my biggest obstacles to overcome
1977, second youngest on the island.
I too was 17 and my senior class was in school.
Other "Shit Sandwich" was 3 days younger!!
We had a few guys get kicked out when I was at Parris Island in 2013! One guy lied to his recruiter about criminal charges, and since his charges were more serious (armed robbery if I recall correctly), they couldn't just give him a moral waiver so he got sent home. Another guy got sent home because he was stealing stuff out of people's footlockers and lied/denied it to the DIs once they figured out what was going on. We had 2 people get the axe for failure to adapt, but those are two separate, longer stories I'm sure you guys don't want to hear 😆
But anyway, great videos. Keep it up! 🙏
I want to hear
What the hell you stealing a recruits sock? Lol some stamps
In 1972 the only guys kicked out were guys who tried to go “over the hill”. The quarterdeck and drunk drill instructors were going to make sure you would graduate. Even if you were physically weak like me you went to PCP like I did. I ended up doing 8 pull-ups after not even doing one. If you shot and qualified at 225 it trumped a lot of things I did wrong. I was hardheaded but I made it. I was a “shitbird” and there were guys worse than me that made it
the corps does not promise you that you will enter a rose garden at boot.
I think you might be the only xMarine to every tell the truth
1. Arrive at MCRD in the best shape you can achieve. 2. Keep your mouth shut and eyes straight ahead. 3. Do not anticipate any command but when ordered, immediately perform to the best of your ability. 4. Always remember the Drill Instructors are professionals and are following orders thus do not take any hazing personally. 5. Boot Camp is temporary, it will end, make the most of it, you signed the contract you were not drafted so toughen yourself and man-up. There is more but: be a man, be a Marine. Sgt. C. Turcotte USMC
Great content
I graduated Parris Isand 24 Aug 1990.
We didnt lose too many guys,just "buckled" in and went along with it.
Simeon, great videos, man, and thank you for your continued service in the Marine Corps. I am retired Air Force and respect every branch of the service; my brother is Army, my one Uncle was USAF in the 1960’s, my paternal grandfather was a Marine in World War II and my maternal grandfather was in the then-Army Air Corps in 1940’s. Great video and Air Force BMT (Basic Military Training) and USMC boot camp are different but these things regarding reasons of troops flunking out of any military basic training. We had a guy leave the 2nd week of training over what I think was something “mental” because it was after we did a medical survey answering questions like if we were/are suicidal, homicidal, and etc. This was 1997 and can vaguely remember this….. Look like you like your Marine career and great videos!
In our first week in Lackland, we had two guy just disappear. The first guy was an obvious druggie going through withdrawal and he probably failed the pee in the bottle test on arrival night. Three MTIs got him out of the sack in the middle of the night on day 2 and he was just gone.
In the other case, we went to morning chow and when we got back another bunk was empty. I saw him later when I was in casual awaiting tech school, and on detail at Wilford Hall. He was still on medical hold and had not re-entered basic training but was still in uniform doing gofer work there. I think he was a psyche case.
Nobody officially told us anything about the two but, that was a wake up call for the rest of us that this was for real.
Marine here, my boot camp was at Parris Island in 1976, which I revisited 20 years later and not much change by that time. Bottom line, pay attention to everything because everything they teach you has a great purpose and is useful in your time in the Marines. If you can, watch videos or read books so you can get an idea what too expect. Try to get in shape before going in, will be a big step in getting thru boot camp.
I did it in 1982-83. I hid all my injuries because I was afraid to get retreaded or maybe dropped completely. I would rather put up with the pain than to have to do it again.
Hey Semper Fi, I was probably in the same time you were November 1982 to February 83. I was in second battalion F company platoon 2016.
It has been over 50 years since I went through OCS at Quantico via the PLC combined course. At halfway, I injured the arch on my left foot during the "Speed March Reaction Course" which was painful as hell. Every morning after that my left boot felt like it had a swollen painful apple at the bottom of my boot which made the second half of the course miserable. I did not want to start over later so I pressed on without saying anything so it never got a chance to heal while I was there. I did finish and make it through TBS and spent 4 years on active duty.
ooh rah
Privates with duty belts.
Second Lieutenants with compasses.
We survived you guys and you got your silver bars!
59 to 71. Semper Fi.
I went to PI when I was 21. Almost two years prior (1999) I was hospitalized with a heart infection (pericarditis and myocarditis). I didn’t tell my recruiter or MEPS. Reason why I didn’t tell them is because I got a clean bill of health from my PCP and I didn’t have to take penicillin shots or any kind of medication for the rest of my life. Moment of truth class came and I told them. Sent home after 3 weeks. Yes It was a major medical issue. It wasn’t a stubbed toe. I guess I thought I could fly under the radar. I tried the Navy after but they denied me because of the medical issue.
Failure is not an option. If you want to be a Marine.
True 💯
Wow, another great video.
My brother went into boot camp (at Parris Island) with the right attitude of doing whatever he had to do, and having the goal of benefitting from boot camp. He certainly was in good physical shape and was intelligent and was morally grounded when he entered Parris Island.
He had been a typical rowdy teen before going to boot camp, but after, he started going to church, and he became an avid golf player.
And, he got trained as a mechanic working on aircraft, which profession he followed after his contract ended, going to work for McDonnell Douglas.
I can't think of a better way to transform your life than by successfully going through boot camp, and by working out your first contract.
Awesome! Thank you for sharing 💯
If you show excessive health issues, you will get pushed out the door. Liability is the obvious reason.
It's all a head game. We WANT people to quit. If they want to quit when they are warm and dry, they will quit on you when it's cold and wet. Weed out the non hackers asap.
I went to Parris Island Aug 14 1981. The toughest part was the first few weeks. Nobody in my platoon knew what to do in the beginning, or fellow recruits kept on f'ing up. Eventually we got used to the routine but still there were plenty of challenges. Even so, some recruits just couldn't hack it. They either got kicked out or "recycled" , that is , sent back to the beginning, day one. I was actually so afraid of making a mistake and being recycled. My best friend, developed a bad blister on our ICT forcemarch. I tried to carry him but they said no and he got recycled back. Anyhow, Semper Fi Brothers!
The old saying goes, "You can't make a silk purse out of a pigs ear."
The Marine Corps makes it really difficult to not graduate boot camp no matter what. If you fail just about anything at any point in boot camp (as mentioned in the video) you get dropped from your current platoon and get sent to another platoon that's a little behind your original platoon. But if you're not cutting it physically, or entered overweight and are not losing the weight fast enough you get dropped to PCP or the Physical Conditioning Platoon. My understanding is that in PCP you do nothing but PT and work out all day, you cease all other training until you've either lost enough weight and/or in good enough shape to do the humps and pass the PFT. Once you're out of PCP you then go to a new platoon that's at roughly the same point in the training cycle that your old platoon was.
When I went in, I was determined that to not get dropped and I would not spend one day beyond the 13 weeks on MCRD. And that worked for me despite not being very athletic nor overly physically fit beyond what it took to qualify to join the Corps. I passed all of prac exams (super easy for me), passed rifle qual, and passed my PFT. Because I was determined to never get dropped I was able to graduate on time with my original platoon mates.
Barring illness or injury, or being an integrity violator, it's nearly impossible to get dropped. You can fail everything and they will push you through.
@@Lokigard While it is very difficult to actually fail recruit training, this doesn't mean that you will necessarily graduate on time in 13 weeks. It's fairly common for recruits to get dropped from their current platoon and sent to another platoon for failing something. If you're overweight and not losing it on schedule or are not hacking it physically you will be dropped and sent to PCP or the Physical Conditioning Platoon until you've lost the weight and/or in good enough shape, if you're seriously injured or get seriously ill you will be sent to Medical Rehabilitation platoon to recover, if you fail any test along the way you will be dropped to another platoon that's about to do thing you failed at. Regardless of the cause, if you get dropped you're not going back to your original platoon and you're not graduating on time. You'll graduate, of course, but it's going to be weeks later than you were originally supposed to have graduated.
@@Riceball01 - The only ones I ever saw get dropped were those who were dropped due to medical reasons (injuries and often pneumonia) and integrity violators. I think we did lose one from the platoon for UNQing at the rifle range and one or two from the company for failing swim qual 4. Never saw anyone get dropped for falling out of a hump, failing to climb a rope, being slow on the obstacle course, failing to complete an obstacle, etc. Hell, I missed out on rappelling totally due to rain, which was disappointing.
Everyone relax. You'll do just fine unless you're determined to fail. Even if you are physically injured to the point you can't carry on, I have seen guys get medically remediated until they were fit to continue. The Marine corps wants Marines. You will not be allowed to fail. Yes you will be sleepy and exhausted, and your body will hurt, but once the pain reaches a certain point it becomes your new normal. Everything else is mind games. Basic training is like high school - even if you were the valedictorian, that amounts to nothing when you move on. Just get it done, and then you're in the real Marine Corps. If anything, you'll be disappointed at how much less "hard" you are expected to be afterward.
Interesting video. I was a DI from 1977 to 1979, and your reasons for discharge are spot on, though the "failure to adapt" at that time was the least used reason. I once had a recruit who had been in boot camp for almost a year, with 2 or 3 visits to CCP (Corrective Custody Platoon), and we picked him up after 6 month sentence at the Camp Pendleton brig--with 6 months forfeiture of pay and allowances. We finally got him kicked out just a few days before graduation, with 6-6-and a kick, but even that was being questioned. Kid just refused to get with the program.
Waste product.
PISC Plt 2213 Dec 77
MOS 7242
MASS-1, MASS-2 Det A, MACS-@, HMM-165
thought it was easy physically, but I kept expecting it to be like the Vietnam style boot camp, only it never appeared.
Was the guide from forming day 1 till 1st week of 3rd phase, was told someone lied and said I hit him, yet I knew I was relieved because I was overstressing myself wanting to be perfect and get honor man.
SDI told me I had honor man a week or two before and told me to relax a bit, I had it, so, because I was doing everything, assigning work details for each squad, helping everyone with EST's, I called the squad leaders and told them to take that over as a squad leader should.
They all told me no.
they refused to help privates with est's claiming they needed to study, too and insisted I keep doing it all.
Even with dropping mail off on the way to morning mess hall.
one was a former army, i kept asking what squad leader did in the army and is he doing that now as 3rd sqd leader?
he got huffy
I ended up having nightmares, loud ones, got relieved and became a normal pvt
1 week later, the SDI called each one in the hut, silence, they came out looking ashamed, and look at me
the army guy spoke first, he gave me a sincere apology, I said something about helping next time but let it go,
SDI came out of his hut, looked down the squadbay, said to me, guide, you ever see themovie the caine mutiny?
i am aware if it sir, never watched.
just dont go looking for strawberrys.
I saw that movie 15 years later, i know exactly what he meant.
he heard me ask for their help, heard them all refuse, said nothing, just watched.
I wonder why, I always wanted to believe he wanted me to prove I could handle that type of issue and let it unfold.
I still wish he took them to the woodshed the first time they refused, or, told me earlier to delegate authority.
i could organize well, call out instructions but the squad leaders only watched and acted better than the other guys because of their position
I lost out on honor man because of all that.
@jimbancroft5616 what year were you at mass 1 ? I was there in 1980
@@curiousgeorge8438 I was at MCRD San Diego from 77 to 79. This kid I talked about above was in my 4th platoon, in 1978.
@@curiousgeorge8438 78-79. my nickname is Banky, went to K-bay in 79
Not a marine, I was USCG, 1991. The scariest part of basic for me was knowing my general orders when asked and the chain of command. I always forgot the Commandants name😖
The yelling, screaming and head games didn't affect me after the way I was raised.
Semper Paratus '91-'96 PS2 D8
And you admit to that. The USCG is where draft-aged men went to hide during the Vietnam war. Having said that, being in the Coast Guard is pretty good duty if you can get in
Went to Parris Island August 1975 at 17 years old. In there with grown men but graduated PFC just hustled and did everything I was told. Boot camp was an experience I will never forget but proud to make it through. Semper Fi brothers!
Great video. I graduated from PI in 2005. Probably the worst time of my life at 18 years old hahaha. But I was able to get through it all and get to the fleet (29 palms of all places) and deploy to OIF a couple times and South Korea before I EAS’d. I think most important here, is when you hit on integrity. You can be the super star honor grad, or as dumb as they come, but integrity is just as paramount as safety IMO. Never lie.
Very true 💯
yes dont lie but also dont snitch on other recruits over petty shit, good way to get rekt by a lock in a boot sock at 0200
I found your channel about a month ago and I find all of your advice really helpful I am trying my best to get my run time down because I ship off in a few weeks
Glad to help! Good luck
I was one of those unsure young kids who was absolutely shocked by what I found at Boot Camp back in 1976.
I wanted to get out so bad that I actually infected a blister on my ankle in hopes that it would get bad enough that they'd have to amputate my foot.
I didn't want to be there at all.
Then one afternoon, because I was on bedrest [ordered by a Navy Doctor] the DIs were putting the rest of the platoon through "special instruction" [mountain climbers, bends and thrusts, 8 count pushups, front straddle hops, etc.], as I lay there in my bunk I started to cry...I cried because I was not there with the rest of my platoon enduring that punishment...I cried because I was left out...I cried because I wasn't a part of the platoon anymore...
I know how that sounds to civilians, but it's true.
After that point I wanted to get better, recover, and become a part of what was going on. I wanted to BECOME a MARINE.
I decided that I would accept whatever came my way. And after that, whenever there was a punishing episode of "corrective Physical Training", I would voice my usual; "Aw...fuck...goddamit...what did we do now?"
But I'd go and do what I had to do, and I found that those episodes didn't seem to last that long. After a while, I got to a point that Boot Camp was no longer such a burden as it was a CHALLENGE. And from that point forward, I welcomed it.
Went to boot camp in 77. Once you get past 2nd phase and start 3rd phase, you pretty much have it made. Ears open, mouth shut and listen! That discipline learned in the Corps, stays with you for life! My DI's, SSGT Pearson, SSGT Arbo, SGT Solar and CPL Dauchman. You never forget your DI's LOL.
Me too, 1977 PLT 1031, don't be running that "soup cooler" !
best advice I got was to pass everything the first time. I've been in for 10 years and I still follow that rule and it kept me out of so much bullshit.
I went off to boot camp at the end of June 1963, Parris Island, 3rd RTB, Platoon 342, and most of us were 18-21 age group. None of us even gave failing boot camp a thought. We wanted to be Marines, and we already knew in advance that recruit training would be tough. The Drill Instructors affirmed our expectations, and there was no finer feeling than standing tall at graduation. Semper Fi.
I have no clue what MC Bootcamp is like now. I spent New Year's Eve 1970/71 standing om the "yellow footprints" in San Diego (those who have been in the Marines know what the yellow footprints were...I guess they still have them). Anyway, back then, the average number of Marines that started in a platoon and finished bootcamp in that same platoon, was about 50%. I started out with 75 others in my platoon and of that number, only 33 of the original 75 graduated together. Many got "dropped" due to academic or physical inability. They would go to special platoons to improve their abilities and then rejoin another platoon that was at the same level as the one they were dropped from. Some were sent to the motivation platoon because they refused to "play the game". Some were discharged due to medical or hardship reasons. Some went AWOL and a few attempted suicide (only one successfully...he drank a bottle of gun cleaner). I also agree with some of the other comments made. The movie Full Metal Jacket was as close to the real thing as I have ever seen...but even it was somewhat toned down a bit. At least compared to what I went through. One thing about it though. Once you get to graduation, I cannot think of anything in my life that filled me with as much pride as I had that day. I MADE IT!
I’m glad I watched because I knew NOTHING about the moment of truth. I go to boot camp in November in Parris Island
Glad I could help 💯
If you spend 180 days in recruit training (medical) you would no longer receive a separation but would get a DD-214 and for that reason if they feel your medical condition is treatable they will keep you.
Thank you bro for giving out this info. I’m planning on joining the Marine Corps. Plz make more videos
I went thru boot camp in San Diego in 1977. The hardest part was the first two weeks since you hadn't started your training days yet and you were still getting used to your drill instructors and the whole routine of boot camp. After two weeks, it was what it was and anyone who couldn't adapt should have joined the Navy. The physical fitness part was hard, but as long as you had normal intelligence, everything else was doable. Our knowledge tests were pretty simple, just memorizing Marine Corps history, general orders and assembly/disassembly of the M16. At the end of the day, boot camp was mostly just dealing with Marine Corps BOHICA.
I signed up to become a marine. I’d be lying if i said i wasn’t nervous or even a little scared but i want to earn that feeling of accomplishment and make my family proud but most of all i want to make myself proud and show myself i can do what it takes to become a marine
1st part staying awake was difficult for me. Then the lining up for 'vaccines' it's really a mental thing. Your body can do it if you try and better yourself. Some of the ones who fail have dad issues, like me. My dad wasn't their for me growing up and I didn't really know God that well so I had no mental strength but if you try you can get through it.
Thank you for your service Sir.
💯🙏
Jesus Christ, boot camp has changed. Back in the 90's when I was in there was no getting out. There were 2 ways off PI graduate or body bag. There were people in my platoon who tried to get out and didn't because they didn't like getting screamed at by the DI's.
In 1976 when I was at Parris Island a recruit would be discharged if discovered to be homosexual.
@@Mardaseewere you sad when you left?
My brother was an Olympic swim team member… he couldn’t adapt.
The physical aspect was hard, but doable. It was the mental aspect I couldn’t get past. I was in RSP for 4 weeks before being set home. Something I will never forget, also something I wish I never did, proud of my husband for graduating and serving his time
I had a History teacher in high school back in the 70's. He had served in the U.S. Marine Corps. Sometimes during class, he would veer off into life lessons for us to learn. He told us a story from when he was in Boot Camp. He had a pass to go into town. On the bus ride to the town, there was a recruit that washed out and was heading home. He said "that guy was lower the whale shit on the bottom of the ocean". The lesson was don't be a quitter in life, and face your challenges wherever they come from, because life can throw you some stuff 10 times worse than being in Boot Camp.
When I went through Marine boot camp in '99, MCRD, we had one guy that was always getting smoked on the quarter deck. Made it half way through training when the drug test results came back positive for MJ. Apparently he and his friends got high the night before he left and didn't bother to tell the instructors. They booted him.
Another guy got caught during the Crucible with peanut butter packets from the DFAC. All we were supposed to have was MRE items, 3 MREs per buddy pair. SDI walked up to him and asked where he got the peanut butter from and the dude lied and said he got it from his MRE. We all know what MRE peanut butter looks like. He was asked against and the reply was he got it from the DFAC before they came out to the field. SDI asked if he had more stashed in his gear, dude replied he did not. SDI told the Platoon Guide to search the dude's pack. Found 3 more packets. SDI tried his damnest to give the dude a chance to come clean. Dude wound up getting kicked back 4 weeks in training when all he had to do was tell the truth and last 2 more days.
Our son ships for Boot Camp on Monday. Thank you for all the content!
Of course! Glad to help!
Good luck to your son. May 5th will come fast. Is your son shipping to Parris Island or San Diego? My little brother was supposed to ship on Monday 6 February, unfortunately I believe his weight is not to entry standards yet. On 6 January of this year I was honored to attend the graduation of MCRD PI 1st RTBN Alpha Company. A young man who is a family friend graduated with Platoon 1000.
Best mindset to make it through is just to take it one small moment at a time, for me i wasnt in the best shape so i was always thinking the next obstacle is going to be the one that sends me home and it went like that all the way till the reaper where i still had that doubt, but once you make it to the top you know you made it and all of that worry fades, you start to feel glad and proud that you actually f made it
I went in at 17 years old in January of 68. Before that, I had a high school friend that had a father that was in the Army. He was some high ranking sgt. He told me that the best way to get through Marine boot camp was to never forget that others did it before me. I always used that special comment to get me through anything I came across. As for the PCP thing, I believe that it was called Motivation Platoon back then. All but 3 that started finished as I recall. Plus, we picked up 2 that were pushed back.
You could be right about PCP, but as I recall (1970, MCRD SD), PCP was Physical Conditioning Platoon for those that were overweight/out of shape, and Motivation Platoon for those that had mental/emotional/attitude issues. Then again, it’s been a few years. Retired Major (Mustang, of course)
PCP aka Fat Farm was separate from Motivational Platoon aka Bad Attitude. One fine day while at Disneyland our Junior DI picked me and 3 others he thought would be sent there. Told us to run over to the PCP DI and tell him we were going to be visitors to his resort. He looked at us and said " I see you all have your belt buckles, that's a good thing so I can use them to beat your with them. Call it INSTANT MOTOVATION to keep me from going. It worked, I squeezed by my first test. 8 weeks (yes 8 weeks) I graduated. :-)
My stepson wants to go into the military next year. This was really informative. Thanks.
You’re welcome!
Basic training was the best everything was free and they get you in shape for me it was easy i thrive in structured environments. I’m great when I get out not as much lol I was Army it’s a different game but I did fight side by side with the marine dudes in Iraq and there legit bad buts . I remember this one marine caught a frag from a grenade and he asked my to take a pic for him he wanted to sho his Dad and he pulled out one of those disposable cameras absolutely a true legend I’m my eyes I don’t know his name we didn’t stay in the same areas we met clearing houses ah to long of a story but yea much respect for the Marine guys n gals
Respect 💯
I knew someone dropping out due to failure to adapt. When she told everyone she was enlisted in the Marines, everyone thought she was nuts. Everyone kept asking "Why not the Air Force or Navy?" Unfortunately, nobody was surprised when she quit & came home. I really hated it as I was doing my damndest to believe she'd make it more than most.
If you don’t mind me asking, what was her reason for not joining a different branch?
If you want to be in the Marine Corps bad enough youll make it !
I graduated boot camp at PI May of 1994! Was a tough but rewarding experience. The mental challenge is real and a large part of determining your success at boot camp is understanding this. I am so glad I went through this experience and can claim the title of US Marine!
Definitely the mental challenge, May 1988
Title of US Marine. That and a couple bucks will buy bus fare.
I was at Parris Island from April 69 to June 69. I was not in great physical shape but could keep up and was essentially average. I shot a 214, sharpshooter, with the M14 and therefore was not excessively harassed by my DIs. Those recruits in trouble were generally overweight or mentally challenged but bodies were needed for Vietnam and most made it through. A DI could be sadistic, and when the 3 of them decided to ride a recruit at the same time, it was just destructive. My MOS was 0311 and I did the year in Vietnam, half of it as a rifleman in the 3rd platoon of Bravo Co, 1/5 Marines. Boot camp was one thing with its invasion of personal space and fear of failure - combat? Things happen that invade your soul and you own them forever.
The only ones I saw that got kicked out were the ones who got injured beyond repair or were medically unfit to do the training. No one wanted anything to do with getting kicked out. Unfortunately, there were the recruits who attempted suicide, but they didn't get kicked out. The country was at war, and we signed up for a reason. Those Marines are still my brothers for life.
Your exercise and dietary regimens have been successful, and you look like a 1950's movie star.
I've been following your example by exercising and eating well, and, now, I'm more fit (and, it shows--I'm even tanned like you.)
All this has helped me to meet certain health challenges even more successfully.
I wonder if you're still in Alaska.
Good job 👍
@@simeon_kurosky I appreciate the encouragement.
I went through Parris Island back in the 70s and I saw a lot of people break. Out of the 60 guys in my training platoon only 30 graduated with me and about 10 of those were pickups who had been recycled for one reason or another. It was the hardest thing I've ever done.
I went into basic training with the Army in 1984 for the college money , I was 31 and in great shape . Long distance runner and I played Ice Hockey .There were four of us including a Vietnam Vet. , that were in our 30's . The mental part was the toughest. Listen to what they say , and do it ! I got used to the yelling ( I was a hockey captain and understand the need sometimes to yell ) . All of the old guys graduated . We had a young guy they recycled to the next training cycle because he could not adapt . They were across the parade ground from us . He did really good and was made a squad leader . I signed for three years and wound up doing ten years before I became a father at 44 and my priorities changed . I found out in those ten years why " Attention to Detail " is important , not only in the military but in civilian life . Because of that , I was able to save the life of a patient at a nursing home , I did security for , who got locked out of her facility . I loved the instructors who were around 25 years old , calling me son ! Just do what they say and don't take it personally . Remember we were all at the bottom and the cream rises .
I did great in boot camp because I was young and dumb and didn’t know any different. So I just did what I was told. I did great with the physical activities, but some of the technical stuff (disassembly and assembly of weapon) I struggled with. After boot, I flew through Airborne school like a walk in the park.
Thanks for this video I’m gonna join later this year I turned 23 about a month I’ve always wanted to join the military and the marines has my attention a lot recently thanks for the info 👍🏼
If you feel like you’re going to fail Boot Camp, then you have already weeded yourself out. The Marines don’t want people who have a sense of failure you go in 100% knowing that you will succeed
Great video for young men and women. A lot has changed in 20 years but this sounds solid. Semper fi young hard charging devil dawgs lol
I can understand though, anyone who can't adapt to boot camp probably couldn't adapt to war at all. They need to put these recruits though this because being a Marine is serious stuff. Much respect to the Marines and other military, you do what so few do
I went through P.I. back in the early 70's during the end of the Viet Nam conflict. Besides getting off of the bus late at night (quickly I may add) and placing my feet at a 45 on a set of the yellow footprints, I do not remember my first 3 days at all and never in my wildest dreams did I realize I could wrap my arms around a fully loaded sea bag and hold it for as long as I needed to as I was so scared in having 5 D.I.'s screaming at the tops of their lungs over my shoulders and in my face; I didn't dare let it relax. I learned through my time at P.I. to respect and honor my D.I.'s; in doing so, it still wasn't easy but I did just fine... former Marine Corps Sgt. (Rick) Gary, Motor Transport.
The idea of getting tossed out of bootcamp and thus discharged from the military just flat didn’t exist when I went thru it in 1968. You signed up, you raised your hand, you said the oath, you served your enlistment. Period. If you failed any part of bootcamp, swimming, physical whatever, tests &c, you cycled thru again until you passed/qualified. Only the worst f@%k ups got bounced, and then with a general discharge or worse, and even then only after grinding thru hell a couple times. Yes, I know: bootcamp is tougher now than it was when there was a draft, but, damn, getting released from that contract for failing bootcamp‽ Jeesh. Unbelievable.
Whole different marine corps
I went to boot camp 1974. What an experience. From day one, they were on me. Before I even got out of the bus! Some guys go through boot camp and rarely get singled out. All the yelling didn’t scare me. They didn’t like that. They told me “ we’re gonna make you or we’re gonna BREAK you! And believe me, they tried. I went through a lot that others didn’t. They put me through motivation, I don’t know if they still have that? Drill instructors had blue tee shirts with big letters (STB) special training branch. We had no belt just a bootlace tied in a knot & bucket. They put us through the mud all day long. It was really cold in December. Some guy’s were crying. DI would yell and say “louder yo mama can’t hear you. I stayed in boot camp for 6 months! The days were long. But I made it. I was on a Navy ship. The Seals asked me to join them. They said “ we need guys like you. But I wasn’t feeling it. If I had a chance to do it all over again. I would join the Marines again. Some of the best times in my life. Semper Fi.
Remember, your D.I. is there to see that you graduate.
Like R. Lee Ermey said, "I will teach you."
Additionally everyone should watch the movie, "The D.I." featuring Jack Webb from 1957.
Graduated from San Diego MCRD over 50 years ago. I was totally out of shape and could barely run a mile. Had a guy in my platoon who could not take it after about 5 weeks and slit his wrist. He was found bleeding to death behind one of the buildings. He was given first aid and transported back to the platoon "Hotel" (thats what we called the buildings we lived in while at MCRD) to our waiting and very pissed off DI (Platoon Commander). He was put on a gurney and wheeled into the squad bay where upon our DI unloaded on him and started screaming at him and totally trying to humiliate him. The DI grabbed his wrist and pointed out to the rest of us that if we were going to slit our wrists you slit up the arm not across the wrist. I stood there stunned at the verbal assault on that recruit's character. When the DI was finished screaming and yelling at him for being a coward, he had a straight jacket put on the recruit and yelled "Get this cowardice piece of shit out of my house"!!!!! I never saw that recruit again. Yes the physical part is tough especially if you are out of shape but the psychological part of it is even worse. They can't hit you anymore like was common place back in my day, they don't make wait for your DI outside of the chow hall while the recruits wait in the push up position on their knuckles. For all the crap I was forced to endure in boot camp, I am grateful for it and it served me well during my tour in Vietnam and the rest of my life. Thank you Marine Corps for forcing me to be the man I am today.
I went to Navy Boot Camp in 87. A lot of this was applicable even then. I saw guys older than me being sent home because they could not adjust. We even had a sleep-walker! Another issue that is probably the same is not accepting responsibility for your failures. Basic Training is designed to test the individual. When you fail a test or make a mistake, admit it, own it, and move on. Yes you will get smashed and smoked, but that is part of the test itself. Great video!
Duty on a Frigate vs Great Mistakes? Great Lakes was the easy part.
Got a Expeditionary Medal instead of combat pay.
Sometimes there those that want to blow the ship up.
Then you pull into port with no beer. After 100 days of steaming circles. Anchor drops. Flight quarters. Hours into days of Condition Zebra.
I was a Corpsman with Marines on two tours. I even went to Jump School. Different struggles but just as hard!@@warrenpuckett4203
I went to Marine Corps Boot Camp in July 1977 and some top recuit got kick out for lying in his background information, he had a criminal record.
I went through MCRD San Diego in 1966. The only things I knew about boot camp were from the movie, “The D.I.” Staring Jack Webb. I expected a little stress. But I was pretty much in shock with the actual
amount stress they put on us, especially for the first month or so. If a person is in good shape physically, and is determined, they will probably be fine. Lessons learned in boot camp have served me well in life, including a 30 year career in Law Enforcement. Anyone who makes it through will always be grateful for the Drill Instructors, who forced them to do things they could have never done on their own. Just my take on this topic.
MCRD SD '67 --- I will never forget our three D.I.'s, Sgt.s Killion, Gomes and Farr --- tough but fair.
@@josephrochefort9989 lol…classic…I think the kindest thing we were ever called was animals…usually, maggots, pukes,dip shits, girls…funny now…not so much at the time…
I went through MCRD back in 1986 and never had a single issue with Boot camp. I did what I was told and that was that. Those who fail boot camp do it because they cannot follow direction of they refuse to get into good physical condition before joining up.
Thank you bro! I randomly jumped on UA-cam and found this so i had to click the vid….I leave next Tuesday and man did this help, couldn’t of ask for a better time to post this lol🫡😮💨.
Im also joining on an Aviation Contract just like you :)
Semper Fi 🇺🇸
Good luck brother, glad to help!
Virtually went unnoticed through boot camp in 1971, BUT, I did everything they said, would have jumped in fire if they said to, that was the key for me, don’t question anything, let the spoiled brats take all the abuse ( I mean expert motivation) unfortunately I felt the Corps was very mundane once you got to a boring non combat duty station
I definitely slid under the radar aswell haha
I was born in Parris Island 4/1982. Went in a fat kid without being able to do a pull up. Was about to be sent to PCP (physical conditioning platoon) (pork chop platoon😂) that halts your progress in boot camp until you can keep up or do the minimum 3 pull ups. However, my company CO was a heavier built man and was certain that standard boot camp was the cure. 3 of us in the platoon were outfitted with red stripes on our shirts, put in front of squad behind leader, and told not to fall out or it’s PCP. My final PT test was 6 pull ups (they taught me to kip), 3 miles in 20:42, 80 sit-ups with leftover time. They were ruthless to us 3 tho😂! “ Stooges to the quarterdeck!” Never forget it, forever grateful. Semper Fi. You can do it if you want it bad enough. Btw my other 2 stooge recruits passed boot too. I did perform the highest of those 3 tho. My total weight loss was 52 lbs in 13 weeks. Platoon 2929 4/86-8/86
I was actually a bootcamp failure then went back two years later and became a Corporal after 22 months. It's actually super difficult to get booted, granted I went soon after 911 when recruits were harder to find and boat spaces were non-existent. Fact is, I wasn't ready at 18 and had no reason being there. I was failure to adapt, but even then I was pushed through T-day 43 (day 1 of the crucible then). My senior suggested I claim suicidal ideology. The MHU shrink didn't believe me and wanted to force me to go on trial training. I got my way and regretted it six months later. Bootcamp was 10x easier two years later at 20.
i have never deviated from my goals unless my body failed me. when i recover. i go right back to the instant moment i was at.
I graduated from MCRD San Diego in August 1966, deployed to Vietnam in 1967-68 during TET Offensive, and finished my four year enlistment at Camp Pendleton. After the Marine Corps went on to a career as a Firefighter. The Marine in me has gotten me through a lot in this life. Semper Fi.
A buddy of mine said he left in boot camp because the orders made no sense. One minute, they're telling you to do it, then next minute its a change of mind. Logical thinking, he said, was not welcome in the Marines.
I enlisted January 1961 @17, I was 6' 2" @ 210. The first 3 weeks of 13 almost killed me.
Played Football my entire 4-years of High School but was not prepared for Marine Corps basic training MCRD Paris Island SC. Graduated in April, I was 6' 4" 198. Don't mistake your conditioning going into the Marine Corps the moment you step of that bus you'll be wrong, you can test to that to this very day. Served 13-years left November '74 @ 30-years of age
@ E7. I had no intentions of being a Drill Instructor, I'm 82 and feel I can relive every minute of it. The United States Marine Corps offers a physical fitness program 2nd to none and a lifelong experience you'll never forget. semper fi Mac.
I was leaving PI when you were getting there. Entered 7 days over 17 on the 30th of October, 1960. 2nd BTL PLT 299. Graduated Jan/1961. Stayed in for a long time, (27 yrs . Retired in 1987, Captain USMC!) Proudest time of my life going from the projects of PGH to earning the title United States Marine! Many tours in country during 60/75. Made my current life way more amazing than possible. Turning 81 this year and I would not change my history if you offered me a lot of money! I am very proud of my Marine Corps and the Marines we have molded today! Never pass a Marine without addressing them when you see them. We are not like the Army, Navy or AF. We are, and will always be Marines and recognizing our brothers is important! Carry on young Marines and make us old guys proud everyday! This is an honor you will carry to your graves! Semper Fi my brothers! OOOOHRAh!
One thing recruits should remember is that "It is not personal".
Drill Instructors will mess with everyone but never give up on yourself.
When I went, I knew several who had "washed out" that were physically stronger and faster than me. But I told myself every day that more than a million recruits had completed training since 1775 and if they could do it, then so could I.
Also, as my brothers told me (they'd been there) do everything they tell you to do. Do it as fast as possible and remember that it will never be fast enough, or good enough.
I actually enjoyed bootcamp/recruit training.
USMC 1986 - 1994
As a DI I know of no time has a recruit been “able “ to leave recruit training for any of these 5 reasons. Failure to adapt? Lying? Medical? Physical? Moment of truth? Nope. Key word was recycling! No reason at all to “fail”.
My suggestion would be , aside from a basic level of physical fitness, is to be familiar with basic rank structure, and learn your general orders.
71 years ago, pride is still there.
I arrived at MCRD San Diego August 19th 1960. I had no idea what bootcamp was about other than you had to complete it to become a Marine. I arrived on a Friday evening and spent the weekend mostly standing "at ease" in a courtyard with other recruits. On Monday morning coming back from the bathroom I happened to glance out at the entrance of the building where we were lodged and saw three drill instructors (so I thought) screaming - yelling at a young marine in uniform making him do punishment exercises. I remember thinking at the time..."man I am glad that is not me." Later on that same morning I ran into the marine who was being treated this way. He was the first blue eyed indian I had ever seen. Still later I realized this fellow was Tony Curtis playing the role of Ira Hayes a participant in the flag raising on Iwo Jima. At the end of the day Mr. Curtis could leave MCRD but I still had 16 weeks to go. Well done video Simeon. Semper Fi!
I was in Navy boot camp in 1974, and several of my fellow company members couldn't cut it (physically or emotionally) and it seemed obvious to me that
they should have never even been allowed to enlist in the first place - BUT recruiters are like car dealers and (mostly) only look at "how many" enlistees
they can get, and in the end, allowing these (way) under equipped people to enlist does no good service for either the military or the enlistee.
If you saw those guys already close to out processing at the end of your training than things have changed and gotten easier than I even thought......Unless you got an accidental injury severe enough they discharge you.If you get yourself out through various shenanigans they used to keep you in a holding company until your paperwork was done and that was always much longer than your training date would have been.I saw guys there a year or more.They get assigned to crappy details and are still trainee status so you can't get caught using tobacco and have no unit patch.Cant drink,that was a big one on hold over status.