Officer Candidates School
LIGHT AT THE END OF THE TUNNEL
“Final Evaluations”

Week 5 at PLC India Company signifies a transition from foundation building to evaluation. Gone are the introductory weeks – now, your candidate dives into a series of academic exams, leadership assessments through simulated combat scenarios, and rigorous physical fitness tests. These evaluations are a critical benchmark, measuring their progress and providing valuable feedback as they push towards becoming Marines. Buckle up, because Week 5 will be a testament to their dedication and perseverance!

Sharpening Skills

This week at Officer Candidates School dials up the pressure for India Company’s PLC Juniors. It’s a week of evaluation and refinement, starting with a timed obstacle course run to gauge their current fitness. They’ll face the course again later for official scores, pushing their agility, strength, and endurance. Navigation skills are tested with a Day Land Compass evaluation, ensuring they can navigate confidently. Close Order Drill remains a focus as Drill Instructors refine their marching precision, discipline, and attention to detail. But the week isn’t over we are only midweek! They’ll dive into their first Small Unit Leader Evaluation (SULE 1), where their ability to lead a fire team through simulated combat scenarios will be assessed. Then, peer evaluations add another layer of scrutiny, providing valuable feedback from their fellow candidates.

Culminating Challenges and Leadership Evaluations

Officer Candidates School pushes India Company’s PLC Juniors to the limit. Following their rigorous evaluations, they’ll participate in a final drill evaluation to showcase their honed marching precision and discipline.

A Look Back and a Challenge Ahead:

• A visit to the Marine Corps Museum (a must-see for any visitor to Quantico!) offers a chance to reflect on the rich history and heritage of the Corps.
• Next, they’ll tackle the Tarzan and Confidence Courses. These physically demanding obstacle courses, inspired by the Royal Marines and Recruit Depots, are designed to push them beyond perceived limitations in a safe, controlled environment.

This combination of historical immersion and physical challenge prepares them for the demanding leadership roles they’ll soon undertake. It’s a week that tests their physical and mental fortitude while offering a glimpse into the legacy they’re striving to become a part of.

Thanks for reading along for week five. I’ll see you next week with information on Family Day and details on the Completion Ceremony.

Semper Fidelis,

SgtMaj (ret) Paul Davis