San Diego | Week 2

INTENSIFICATION & COMBAT READINESS
“FORGING RESILIENCE”

As the echoes of week 1’s challenges fade into the past, week 2 heralds a new week of relentless training and unwavering commitment. This week marks a pivotal continuation of the rigorous journey toward becoming a Marine, where Recruits dive deeper into the crucible of discipline and resilience.

One Mind Any Weapon

Week 2 dives deeper into the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program (MCMAP), embodying the philosophy of “one mind, any weapon.” This program builds well-rounded warriors through mental mastery of the art of war, fostering character development through the core values of the Corps, and equipping Recruits with physical combat fighting techniques.

This comprehensive training prepares your Recruits not only to defend themselves but also to think critically, demonstrate unwavering integrity, and act decisively – the hallmarks of a true Marine.

Take A Stance

This week, recruits take another step in building confidence and combat readiness as they are introduced to pugil stick training—a controlled, padded form of close-quarters combat. These bouts are designed to teach aggression, balance, and determination while reinforcing discipline and control under pressure. It’s often the first time recruits truly experience how to push through fear and hesitation and trust their training.

Recruits will also begin bayonet training, learning how to employ their rifle in close-quarters situations. This training reinforces the importance of aggression, precision, and confidence, while reminding recruits that their weapon is an extension of themselves. Beyond the physical skills, bayonet training instills a strong warrior mindset and reinforces the Marine Corps ethos of never backing down from a challenge.

Together, these events help your recruit develop resilience, self-confidence, and mental toughness—qualities essential to every Marine. Each challenge faced and overcome strengthens their belief in themselves and the team beside them, moving them one step closer to earning the title Marine.

Building Confidence

Later in week 2 at MCRD San Diego, Recruits plunge into the heart of the Obstacle Course, a series of grueling physical and mental challenges. Towering logs and high ropes demand strength, agility, and a healthy dose of grit.

Fear and fatigue gnaw at the Recruits, testing their determination as drill instructors relentlessly push them to conquer each obstacle. It’s a pivotal point in their transformation; the confidence course breaks down hesitation and builds the unwavering determination that defines a United States Marine.

Close-Order Drill And Academic Classes

Recruits will start focusing on close-order drill, academic classes, and rigorous physical training. Each step in a close-order drill is meticulously taught, demanding precision and teamwork as Recruits march in synchronized formations.

Drill fosters discipline and lays the foundation for military bearing. Meanwhile, academic classes center on Marine Corps history, ethics, and core values, while relentless physical training pushes Recruits to their limits, building the strength and stamina needed to earn the title of Marine.

THE PURPOSE OF CLOSE ORDER DRILL

To move a unit from one place to another in a standard, orderly manner.

To Provide simple formations from which combat formations may be readily assumed.

To teach discipline to the troops by instilling automatic responses to orders. To increase the confidence of the commander, by giving the proper commands and the control of drilling troops.

To give Marines an opportunity to handle individual weapons.

Be sure to ask your recruit about their progress in the MCMAP in your letter to your recruit this week. I’ll see you next week with more insights and stories during this pivotal time for you and your recruit.

Semper Fidelis,

SgtMaj Paul Davis (USMC Ret)