How Marines Are Made

For my fellow old Marines who may be feeling a bit nostalgic, this video was released a few days ago. It is an hour-and-a-half long and follows a recruit platoon through the first two phases at MCRD San Diego, (I assume they still have three phases; it ends rather suddenly with some close order drill on the grinder right after rifle qualification). I find it both curious and reassuring that nothing has changed there; from receiving barracks to the grinders, it all looks the same. You'll find yourself smiling frequently -- which you'll remember you most definitely were NOT doing at the time you experienced it first-hand.

For those who are not old Marines, this is as close as you'll get to experiencing Marine boot camp. I'm actually a little surprised the Corps agreed to this production, as it's pretty raw. HQMC normally likes to be a little more circumspect about what goes on behind closed doors. Of course they've cut out some of the things they don't want you to see, (or hear for that matter). The United States Marine Corps specializes in turning civilian slugs into aggressive fighters. We are better at it than anyone in the world in my somewhat biased opinion, but the process isn't for limp-wristed thumb-suckers. In order to construct a Marine, you must first deconstruct the civilian. Something is lost in the process; I do not dispute that. But it is my firm belief that what results is a superior example of the American male, (humility is not part of the training). If you've ever had a friend or relative go to Marine boot camp and wonder why he returned as another person entirely, this will help you understand. Warning: Lots of YELLING. But you knew that already.