Officer Candidates School
CONFIDENCE BUILDING
“Testing Time”

As the third week unfolds at OCS, your candidate stands on the threshold of breakthrough and adaptation in their transformative journey. Week three is a pivotal period during which candidates begin to acclimate to the environment, stress, and expectations of OCS, marking a significant turning point in their Marine Corps experience.

Teamwork

Week 3 introduces candidates to the Leadership Reaction Course (LRC), a challenging scenario in which they lead a fire team (four candidates) through a series of physical and mental obstacles. OCS staff and peers will assess their ability to make quick decisions, communicate effectively, and adapt plans under pressure. This is just one example of the leadership exercises that account for 50% of their overall grade.

Pushing Limits In Training

Following the Leadership Reaction Course (LRC), Officer Candidates School throws another test at your candidate: Next, your candidate will take on the Juniors Fartlek Course
This challenging course is designed to build strength, stamina, and endurance by integrating a series of physical exercises throughout a timed run. It pushes candidates to maintain focus and intensity while navigating a demanding mix of running and bodyweight movements—preparing them for the physical rigors of leadership in the Marine Corps. no time to rest – they’ll head straight back to the classroom for Exam 2, ensuring their knowledge stays sharp and they retain the critical information covered so far. This relentless schedule is a testament to the high standards expected of future Marine Corps Officers.

Sharpening Leadership and Precision

As Week 3 concludes at Officer Candidates School, candidates continue to sharpen their leadership and foundational skills. Building on their earlier training, they tackle Leadership Reaction Course II—a challenging exercise that evaluates their ability to lead a fire team through complex, high-pressure scenarios requiring quick decision-making and clear communication.

Candidates also return to close-order drill, reinforcing discipline, attention to detail, and unit cohesion through precise, synchronized movements. To assess their academic progress, they take Exam IV, ensuring they retain the critical knowledge needed to lead effectively.

Together, these experiences solidify the mental, physical, and academic foundation necessary for success, setting the stage for continued growth on the path to becoming Marine Corps Officers.

Thanks for reading along for week three. 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