KEY TRANING EVENT

Teamwork and discipline is critical to the Marine. Much like team sports, Close order drill allows each platoon the opportunity. Will be tested from the first day of training until the day new Marines march across their respective Parade Deck. All drill instructed at Recruit Training is in accordance with MCO 5060.20, the Marine Corps Drill and Ceremonies Manual. Recruits will be introduced to drill the second they arrive at training. The position of attention, or POA, is the very first thing will learn. From there, they will progress through the recieving process to meet their DIs on Black Friday. On this day, they will be introduced to their first marching command "Forward, March." Many recruits will stare at the deck as they march and fail to keep in step with their platoon. DIs will start slow to ensure they develop understanding of movements, but will quickly throw as much as the recruits can handle.

This event will pit recruits against each other in controlled, timed bouts. This event is an oppurtunity to practice martial arts techniques they have learned and to introduce violence in a controlled environment. Pugil Sticks will lay the groundwork to build confidence in further martial arts training. Platoons will arrive at the training location to stage their weapons and gear in formation. Recruits will remove their blouse, ensure their pockets are emptied, and have their mouthpieces in hand before recieving further instructions. DIs will conduct a demonstration of a bout to include the proper commands and strikes which will be utilized during the event. Recruits will be lined up in accordance with their weight so each recruit has a bout with an individual within 10 pounds of their body weight.

Conditioning Hikes are completed throughout the training cycle to prepare recruits for tactical foot movements. Also known as “humps”, these hikes range in distance from 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) to 15 kilometers (9.3 miles). The prescribed weights from 40 to 60 pounds are established to simulate movement of weapon, gear and self to the fight. Hikes are completed on Saturday mornings and are led by the Company Commander. Hikes are preceeded by a hot meal in the chow hall, and recruits are given a piece of fruit or an energy bar which can be consumed at rest stops to sustain them through the event.

Body Sparring allows recruits to fight one another, much like a boxing match. This event is an opportunity to practice martial arts techniques they have learned and to introduce violence in a controlled environment. Platoons will arrive at the training location to stage their weapons and gear in formation. Recruits will remove their blouse, ensure their pockets are emptied, and have their mouthpieces in hand before receiving further instructions. DIs will conduct a demonstration of a bout to include the proper commands and strikes which will be utilized during the event. Recruits will be lined up in accordance with their weight so each recruit has a bout with an individual within 10 pounds of their body weight.

This key event is really two sequential events, the Fast Rope and the Rappel. The Fast Rope is completed first and is completed by rapidly sliding down a thick rope, simulating egress from a helicopter. Recruits will receive a climbing helmet and thick lineman's gloves prior to being arranged around the tower to receive instruction and a demonstration from the Black Shirts. Recruits will then climb a wooden ladder in teams and complete the Fast Rope portion. They will then pick up ropes and a carabiner for use on the Rappel.

This event is an experience no Marine or Officer forgets. Recruits will be transported to the gas chamber classroom where they will each be issued an M50 Joint Service General Purpose Mask (JSGPM) and two filters before being seated in the classroom. They will then receive training on the dangers presented by Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) threats which they may face in the operating forces. They will then be taught the purpose, wear, and maintenance of the M50 JSGPM. Recruits will conduct a test fit of their masks prior to departing the classroom.

The Obstacle Course, or O Course, is completed at multiple points during each training cycle. It is composed of 14 obstacles to include low hurdle logs, high logs, high bars, a wall, and a rope climb. Recruits will wear their utility uniform bottoms with boots, and a t-shirt. Sweaters may be worn if the weather requires it. Each platoon be provided detail instructions on how to safely navigate the course and techniques to complete each individual obstacle. DIs will demonstrate these techniques prior to recruits beginning the course.

True to its name, this course seeks to instill confidence in each recruit and force them to face their fears, particularly one of heights. This is accomplished through a series of obstacles, each with a unique name and purpose, such as the infamous "Stairway to Heaven." Training at the Confidence Course will prepare Recruits for future events critical to their success at Recruit Training.

The MCMAP Endurance Course combines martial arts training and PT to create one of the most grueling events of the training cycle. This event is completed on a PT field with a running track and is composed of ten stations. Stations are set about 100 feet apart and will be conducted in a clockwise or counterclockwise rotation. Like any other PT session, this event will be preceded by warmups to prepare the recruits body for what is to come. DIs will then brief recruits on the conduct of each station, then break them into their squads to complete the event.

The first of three formal inspections which will be stood by recruits. This inspection is led by the First Lieutenant or Captain responsible for each platoon. Series Commanders will expect the impeccable bearing, uniform wear, discipline, and military knowledge. Recruits will typically wear their MARPAT uniform and have their rifle on hand. Chaos will also come in the form of Drill Instructors who will provide unique atmosphere for the completion of this event. If recruits fail to perform, they can expect a hasty trip to the IT pit or quarterdeck.

This is the first of two platoon close order drill evaluations. Drill Instructors will spend countless hours teaching basic movements and discipline in order to showcase the best their recruits have to offer. Completion of his event marks the transition of a Phase I platoon to a Phase II platoon.

The water survival test is composed of a tower jump, 25 meter swim, 25 meter pack swim, four minute water tread, and a shallow water gear shed. Recruits who experience difficulties with these events are provided in-depth training from certified swim instructors so they may meet the standard. The training for these recruits is known as "Iron Ducks."

The Combat Fitness Test (CFT) is completed by recruits and Marines alike to test the individuals strength and endurance. The CFT consists of three events: movement to contact, 880m run, 2 minutes max ammo can lift, and a maneuver under fire. The movement to contact is an 880mm sprint conducted on a track or a road course. Ammo can lifts are an overhead press utilizing a 30 pound ammo can, typically filled with sand and rock, which is weighed before the event. The maneuver under fire is a tactical-oriented shuttle run which includes sprints, buddy carries, and a grenade toss. Recruits will complete two CFTs during their training. An Initial CFT will familiarize recruits with the conduct of events, with emphasis on the maneuver under fire course; the score attained is a benchmark for future development. The Final CFT will prove Recruits can graduate training, and they must meet established minimums.

Recruits will receive over 28 hours of martial arts instruction during the training cycle. This training will culminate in a test which recruits must show proficiency in at least 80% of the techniques they are taught. Prior to this test convening, recruits will be provided ample time to remediate each technique with their DIs.

This is the first of three academic evaluations. Recruits will be expected to show proficiency on officer and enlisted ranks, early Marine Corps history, customs and courtesies, and other topics. This test is completed on a Scantron form like those seen in high schools and colleges.