Basic Officer Course
IN PROCESSING WEEK
“Welcome Aboard Camp Barrett”

Welcome to the next journey in your Marine’s career path. The Basic School (TBS) is the crucible where newly commissioned and appointed U.S. Marine Corps officers are forged into leaders. Located at Camp Barrett, Quantico, Virginia, TBS annually trains over 2,000 officers from diverse backgrounds, including the Naval Academy, ROTC, Officer Candidates School, and warrant officer programs. These future leaders master the fundamentals of officer leadership, preparing them to serve in various roles across the Marine Corps.

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 Marine is about to embark on at The Basic School over the next several months. Follow me as we start with the arrival at the Basic Officer Course. 

In Processing  Week

In the first week of Basic Officer School, your Marine will receive a formal welcome  from both the Commanding Officer (CO) and the Company Commander, setting the tone for their training journey. This welcome emphasizes the gravity of the path they’ve chosen, highlighting the expectations and responsibilities they will carry as Marine officers. After the welcome, the officers will go through essential administrative check-ins. Following these initial steps, the officers are introduced to their Staff Platoon Commanders (SPCs), who will be their primary mentors throughout training, guiding them through the challenges and complexities of their development. The week also includes foundational classes on Warfighting, specifically the Marine Corps Doctrinal Publication 1 (MCDP 1). These classes are essential in shaping the officers’ understanding of the Marine Corps’ warfighting philosophy, emphasizing the principles of maneuver warfare and the mindset required to lead Marines in combat.

Human Performance

Marines will end week one  with an introduction to Human Performance. Human Performance is a vital aspect of their training that emphasizes the optimization of both physical and mental resilience. This session will cover essential areas such as nutrition, physical conditioning, stress management, and injury prevention, all designed to enhance their overall performance and endurance. Grasping the principles of Human Performance is crucial for Marines, as it ensures they maintain peak readiness not only throughout their training but also during their entire career, both in garrison and in combat.

Bridging the Gap with Letters

Amid the rigorous demands of the initial training phase at Basic Officer Course, a letter from loved ones becomes a beacon of hope. This seemingly small act of sending a message carries immense weight, offering a tangible link to the world they’ve temporarily left behind. It serves as a touching reminder of the support waiting for them, providing a crucial morale boost and a sense of comfort amidst their challenging journey. These letters are not just messages; they’re lifelines that uplift spirits and reinforce the resolve to persevere.

You’re on this journey WITH your Marine, and the best way to stay connected is by sending mail. Sandboxx Letters arrive on base the next day with return stationery, a pre-addressed envelope, photos, and the option to add a gift card. Over the next several months, I’ll share weekly updates about what your Marine is experiencing. This path is tough and demanding, but in the end, your Marine will have the tools to lead their Marines when they arrive at their first duty station. 

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

Semper Fidelis,
SgtMaj Paul Davis