Ever wonder how Marines are made? Take a brief look into 12 weeks of intensive and frantic recruit training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego. United States Marine Corps Recruit Training (commonly known as “boot camp”) is an initial training that each recruit must successfully complete in order to serve in the United States Marine Corps.

Week 1
Recruits arrive late at night and are immediately thrust into the whirlwind of in-processing, haircuts, uniform and gear issue and medical evaluations. Recruits undergo an initial strength test to ensure they are prepared for training.

Week 2
During week two, recruits meet their team of drill instructors for the first time, learn Marine Corps Core Values and are introduced to the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program.

Week 3
During week 3, the recruits continue MCMAP training and negotiate the Bayonet Assault Course and Obstacle Course.

Week 4
During week 4, the recruits continue MCMAP training, tackle an initial Combat Fitness Test and face the senior drill instructor inspection.

Week 5
Week 5 serves as the final week of Phase I, which is when recruits participate in swim qualifications and conduct an initial Physical Fitness Test.

Week 6
Grass Week. Recruits hike to the rifle range and begin to learn the fundamentals of Marine Corps marksmanship. Recruits learn the proper firing positions and spend hours sitting in grass fields sighting in on practice targets.

Week 7
Firing Week. Recruits take what they learned from Grass Week and apply it downrange.

Week 8
During field week, recruits put their combat mindset to the test, day and night.

Week 9
During week 9, recruits are put on working parties around the depot, experience what it is like to patrol areas at night and undergo a series commander’s inspection.

Week 10
During week 10 of recruit training, recruits complete the Bayonet Assault Course, Pugil Sticks III and the Combat Fitness Test.

Week 11
During week 11 of training, recruits completed their final drill evaluation, final physical fitness test, and conquered the rappel tower.

Week 12
Recruits take on The Crucible. After completing 12 grueling weeks of transformation, recruits have earned the Eagle, Globe and Anchor, and can now finally be called United States Marines.