All Ready On The Firing Line
“Combat Marksmanship”

Week 8 at Parris Island marks a pivotal point for Recruits as they transition into team-based operations, emphasizing cohesion, adaptability, and leadership. This week’s advanced exercises and challenges are designed to solidify the core values of honor, courage, and commitment, reinforcing the bond of brotherhood among Recruits. It’s a critical phase where the ethos of the Marine Corps takes deeper root, preparing them for the demanding trials that lie ahead.

Embarking On The Next Stage Of Marksmanship Development

Following the Recruit’s initial marksmanship training in Table 1, Table 2 Firing pushes Recruits toward combat-ready proficiency. This stage throws them into simulated scenarios, testing their ability to apply learned skills under pressure.

Recruits engage multiple and moving targets from all four shooting positions, often while wearing combat gear and adapting to different ranges and conditions. This demanding exercise hones their tactical skills, like rapid fire and combat reloads, further solidifying their confidence and marksmanship expertise. Successfully completing Table 2 Firing, along with other qualifications, signifies a critical milestone in their transformation into qualified riflemen, ready to serve their country with precision and courage.

Fall In!!

As Week 8 comes to a close, your Recruit will take part in Final Drill—an event often seen as the Super Bowl for both Recruits and drill instructors. Final Drill serves as the ultimate evaluation of a platoon’s proficiency in close order drill, testing the Senoir Drilll Instructor’s (SDI) command abilities and the Recruits’ skill in executing precise movements. This event reinforces instant obedience to orders and unit cohesion, essential qualities for every Marine. Afterward, Recruits will enjoy a well-deserved haircut to keep them sharp for the final stages of training.

Next week we’ll cover Basic Warrior Training (BWT) that will teach Recruits basic combat survival skills crucial for mission success in their future as a Marine.

 I’m SgtMaj Paul Davis (USMC Ret), and I can’t wait to share more with you about this incredible journey.

Semper Fidelis