Marine Week
“Bn Cmdr Inspection”

This week is a pivotal shift for your Marine as they enter “Marine Week,” marking their transition from Recruit to Marine. While the intensive training continues, the fourth phase focuses on preparing them for their new identity. It’s a whirlwind of crucial activities: more physical fitness to ensure readiness, a gathering of personal effects, coordinating final travel arrangements, addressing outstanding bills, reinforcing core values, and undergoing final inspections for graduation. 

This week is a culmination of their arduous training journey, filled with excitement as they near the finish line and officially complete boot camp.

Final Admin and Logistics

To start the week, your Marine will handle crucial final administrative tasks and logistics. This includes arranging travel plans for their next duty station, collecting their personal belongings, and settling any outstanding financial matters or bills. These steps ensure they are fully prepared for the transition ahead, wrapping up the final details.

Military Occupational Specialty (MOS)

As part of their training, new Marines will have the opportunity to hear directly from experienced Marines currently serving in their Military Occupational Specialty (MOS). These sessions provide valuable insights and firsthand accounts, helping new Marines gain a better understanding of what to expect in their specific career fields and how to prepare for success in their upcoming roles.

The Battalion Commander’s Inspection

This rigorous final inspection serves as the last formal evaluation before graduation, thoroughly assessing each Marine’s uniform presentation, military knowledge, and personal motivations. The inspecting officer will meticulously evaluate every detail, from the precision of their uniform to the clarity and confidence of their responses, ensuring they meet the high standards expected of all Marines. This inspection confirms that they are fully prepared to uphold the Corps’ values of Honor, Courage, and Commitment, embodying the Marine Corps traditions they will carry forward into their service.

Building Camaraderie and Corps Pride

The week wraps up with an energizing field meet, where new Marines come together to build teamwork and camaraderie through friendly competitions and engaging activities. The excitement continues into the weekend as your New Marine enjoys on-base liberty on Saturday, offering a well-deserved break and an opportunity to relax and recharge.

Graduation Is Almost Here – Be Ready to Celebrate!

As you prepare for your graduation trip to MCRD Parris Island, learn more about Family Day and graduation on the Marine Corps Facebook page. You can also download the Family Day app from Google Play or the App Store.

📌 Reminder: Be aware of all ID requirements for air travel and base access. You can find detailed information on what’s needed [here].

Next week, I’ll be back with all the exciting details surrounding your Marine’s graduation ceremony. You will want to take advantage of it!  

I’m SgtMaj Paul Davis (USMC Ret.); see you next for the final update.

Semper Fidelis