Officer Candidates School
PROCESSING WEEK
“Welcome Aboard Brown Field”

Welcome to the beginning of military life at Officer Candidates School (OCS) Quantico, Va. The first week is a real test of their strength and mindset, preparing them for the tough training ahead.

My name is Sergeant Major Paul Davis (Ret), and I spent 27 years in the Marine Corps. I’m here to guide you through the exciting journey your recruit is about to embark on at OCS over the next several weeks. Follow me as we start with the arrival at OCS.

The Transformation Begins

Stepping off the bus, candidates’ hearts pound, palms sweat, and breaths quicken as a wave of nervous excitement washes over them. This is the shared experience of countless individuals who have crossed the threshold of Brown Field. Here, drill instructors greet them, ushering them onto the legendary yellow footprints. For many, this is where they realize what they are about to take on.

In-processing Week

Week one is a crucible, forging physical and mental strength in new candidates. While building physical endurance is crucial, the experience goes far beyond. It’s an intense mental and emotional challenge, pushing them to master self-discipline and resilience in the face of stress and fatigue. This week lays the foundation for mental toughness that will match their physical capabilities.

During in-processing, your Candidate will be taken from their normal routine and placed in a controlled, chaotic environment to begin developing the skills necessary to succeed as an officer in the United States Marine Corps. This can be a stressful time for Candidates and those closest to them. Don’t worry; it’s just one facet of the experience designed to prepare them for success. The first few days will begin with administrative and medical in-processing, receiving their gear and uniforms, and finally getting placed in their respective training company.

Building Endurance Beyond Limits

Throughout their time at Quantico, your Candidate will be expected to maintain their physical fitness. Their fitness journey will begin this week with an initial Physical Fitness Test (PFT). The Marine Corps Physical Fitness Test is composed of pull-ups or push-ups to test upper body strength, planks to test core strength, and a 3-mile run to test physical endurance. The initial PFT assesses the candidates’ readiness to induct into training.

This won’t be the last time your Candidate has to take the PFT; they’ll continue to do so throughout training and the rest of their Marine Corps career. Additionally, they’ll be introduced to running as a platoon and run a 3-mile loop on base to help them orient the local trail network.

This week also introduces your candidate to the Marine Corps Core Values—Honor, Courage, and Commitment—the principles that will guide their conduct throughout their service and long after they leave uniform. These values form the foundation of what it means to be a Marine.

• Honor calls them to uphold the highest ethical standards, act with integrity, and take responsibility for every decision they make.
  
• Courage demands they face fear, adversity, and uncertainty with unwavering resolve.
  
• Commitment reminds them that excellence is not a moment, but a mindset—showing up with discipline, humility, and grit every single day.
  

Throughout the week, your candidate begins to understand that becoming a Marine officer is not just about physical performance or tactical knowledge—it’s about character, leadership, and the moral strength to lead Marines in the most challenging environments.

This early phase is a test of mental fortitude, attention to detail, and dedication to mission and team. Each task, inspection, and class introduces them to the standards expected of leaders in the Marine Corps.

The week culminates with meeting the drill instructors—the team of seasoned Marines who will be with them every minute of every day over the coming weeks. These instructors will push, challenge, and mentor your candidate as they grow in confidence, discipline, and leadership ability.

Your candidate’s journey is only beginning, but already they are learning what it means to serve with honor and to lead with purpose.

Bridging the Gap with Letters

Amid the rigorous demands of the first phase at Officer Candidates School, your letters become more than just words on paper—they are a lifeline of encouragement and strength. Each message you send provides your candidate with a tangible reminder of home, family, and unwavering support. In the long days of training, that connection can make all the difference in lifting spirits and fueling the determination to keep pushing forward.

Over the coming weeks, I’ll share updates on what your candidate is experiencing as they transform into a Marine Corps Officer. This path is tough, but every challenge brings them one step closer to EARNING the title of United States Marine. Stay tuned for insights and stories from this defining chapter of their journey.

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

Semper Fidelis,
SgtMaj Paul Davis