Officer Candidate Course | Quantico

Officer Candidates School
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 candidates dive deeper into the crucible of discipline and resilience.

Building Marine Officers at Quantico

Week two at Officer Candidates School (OCS) kicks off with the issuance of weapons and compasses, essential tools for their training. Candidates are then immersed in Marine Corps Leadership Principles and Traits, known by the acronym “JJ DID TIE BUCKLE,” which outlines the 11 core principles and 14 leadership traits vital for effective leadership. The week also includes an introduction to Marine Corps customs, courtesies, and history, laying the foundation for their transformation into Marine Corps officers.

CLOSE-ORDER DRILL 

Starting in week 3, candidates will focus 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. Increase the commander’s confidence by giving the proper commands and control of drilling troops. 
  • To allow Marines to handle individual weapons. 

Building Endurance in Hiking

Week 2 isn’t just about classrooms! It’s time to hit the field for an introduction to “rucking” – carrying a heavy rucksack (main pack) on challenging hikes. Candidates will learn efficient packing techniques before embarking on a 3-mile trek, a dual-purpose mission. This initial march not only familiarizes them with proper loaded foot march conduct but also establishes the baseline Marine Corps pace of 3.6 mph. Don’t underestimate the importance of rucking – it’s a skill that requires practice, just like shooting or combat maneuvers. Throughout OCS, expect to see a lot of “rucking, rucking, and then rucking some more” as they build the endurance needed for Marine Corps life.

Get Some!

Week 2 concludes with the “Eye the Needle PT” at Officer Candidates School (OCS), a physically demanding exercise designed to test the candidates’ endurance, mental toughness, and physical agility. It typically involves a series of challenging obstacles or tasks that must be completed under strict time constraints. The exercise is intended to simulate the stress and physical strain candidates might experience in combat scenarios, ensuring they are prepared to lead Marines under pressure. This type of physical training is integral to building the resilience required of Marine officers. This demanding schedule underscores Quantico’s intensity – even after two weeks, your candidate might still be adjusting to the new environment and sleep routine.

Make Their Day: Send a Thoughtful Gift Card to Your Candidate
Lastly, your candidate will head to the Marine Corps Exchange (MCX) next week. The Exchange is a store on base where your Candidate will be able to pick up any supplies that they may need. Once you start writing, you’ll see the option to add a gift card.

I’ll see you next week with more insights and stories during this pivotal time for you and your candidate.

Semper Fidelis,
SgtMaj Paul Davis