Stay up to date with the latest news and announcements from RecruitParents.com!
2/13/2025
The Military Entrance Processing Station, or MEPS, is where applicants for military service go to complete the enlistment process. MEPS ensures that each applicant meets the aptitude, physical, and behavioral standards set by the Department of Defense and Service Branches.
2/13/2025
In 1942 Camp Montford Point was opened and young African American men began filtering through for recruit training to join the United States Marine Corps. Approximately 20,000 African American recruits went through Montford Point from 1942 to 1949. At that time, the Marine Corps was segregated and African American recruits were not allowed to train with white recruits. Although African American recruits trained at a different location than other recruits, their training was just as challenging. Montford Point was the birthplace of some of the toughest and most brave Marines in the history of the Marine Corps.
Among these tough Marines was Cpl. Lawrence "Larry" Diggs. Mr. Diggs happens to live near the MarineParents.com corporate office in Columbia, MO and our staff has had the honor of meeting and working with him. Born in Mississippi and raised in Chicago, Diggs was drafted into the military in May 1942 and was one of the first African Americans recruited by the Marine Corps.
2/13/2025
CONGRATULATIONS to Julie Goering who recently completed 40+ hours of training to become one of our newest volunteers for the official MarineParents.com Facebook Groups in support of our Marine Corps family members and a place to connect and share®!
2/13/2025
These are OFFICIAL Marine Parents Facebook Groups for Marine Corps family members with Marines stationed in specific locations. Gather with other family members wearing stationed with your Marine.
2/12/2025
51 years ago today, a C-141A Starlifter transport jet with a distinctive red cross on its tail lifted off from Hanoi, North Vietnam, and the first flight of 40 U.S. prisoners of war began their journey home through Operation Homecoming. I was 11 years old, and our family lived at Clark Air Force Base in the Philippines. I remember the POWs coming home like it was yesterday. My mother took us to greet every plane that arrive on the tarmac. We wore our POW bracelets and hoped "our" POW would be coming home.
It was a time like no other in the history of the United States, and even as a child, I understood the impact on these service members being released from a prisoner of war camp. Today, I want to remember this time and share those memories with others who may not know that time in our history. It should never be forgotten.
The article written on the 40th anniversary of Operation Homecoming is well done, and I encourage you to take time to read it. The link follows.
2/12/2025
The staff at Western Inn are here to serve you during your recruit's graduation from Marine Corps boot camp. We offer a special rate for Marine family members; please mention MarineParents.com when making your reservations. We are a 5 minute drive (1/2 mile) to MCRD and a 5 minute walk to the Old Town Trolley station.
2/12/2025
A poolee is an individual who has already signed up to become a Marine but has not yet left for the 13 weeks of recruit training at boot camp in San Diego or Parris Island. Each spring, Marine Corps recruiting stations around the United States hold a "Poolee Family Night" to bring poolees and their parents together to learn what to expect in, and how to prepare for, boot camp.
2/11/2025
On February 11, 1922, Brigadier General John H. Russell was appointed U.S. High Commissioner and personal representative of the President to the government of Haiti. For the next nine years, the future Commandant in supreme command of both the occupying American forces and the Haitian Gendarmerie.
2/11/2025
Recruit training transforms civilians into Marines who can face any challenge. As recruits, they will be met with stress and chaos from the start at the hands of the drill instructor.
2/11/2025
MOS: Military Occupational Specialty. Do you know your Marine's MOS? Learn more about MOS Schooling here. Our database has information for every MOS. Learn about YOUR Marine's MOS from Marine Parents on our What's After Boot website.
2/10/2025
Today's featured Marine is Private First Class James Anderson Jr. PFC Anderson is the first African-American Marine to be awarded the Medal of Honor!
On February 28, 1967, while on patrol outside of the village of Cam Lo, Quang Tri Province, PFC Anderson's platoon came under heavy enemy fire. During the ensuing firefight, an enemy grenade landed near PFC Anderson and several other Marines. PFC Anderson pulled the grenade to his chest, curled around it, and absorbed the majority of the blast with his body, heroically saving the lives of the Marines around him at the cost of his own.
2/10/2025
After boot camp and ten-day leave, your new Marine will go to School of Infantry (SOI) for additional training. From there, all but 03XX MOS (Military Occupational Specialty) will go to MOS Schools around the nation.
2/10/2025
The recruit training matrix shows what your recruit is doing each day of boot camp. We've included a list of acronyms and abbreviations for both Parris Island and San Diego. Knowledge is power!
2/9/2025
En cada página en Español de nuestros sitios web, encontrará esta barra roja con enlaces desde esta página, así como sitios web adicionales para las etapas de su recluta o la carrera de Marine en el Cuerpo.
2/9/2025
Thirteen weeks is a long time to go without seeing your loved-one. That makes this a tough question to answer because we know you long to see a ANY photo of your recruit. However, we don't post photos of recruits in training except as approved by the United States Marine Corps Public Affairs Offices at either Recruit Depot Parris Island or Recruit Depot San Diego.
2/9/2025
In the spirit of the value the Marine Corps places on its history, we wanted to give you, Marine families and supporters, an opportunity to embrace and learn about this part of Marine Corps legacy as well. In this piece, we take a further look at the first African-American officer in the United States Marine Corps - Frederick C. Branch.
2/8/2025
Attending boot camp graduation should be an exciting time for a Marine's family members. Use this page for some helpful tips and resources that you may need when you attend your Marine's graduation from boot camp.
2/8/2025
On October 1, 1997, Colonel Gilda A. Jackson, of Columbus, Ohio, became the first African-American female Marine to achieve the rank of Colonel during a ceremony at MCAS Cherry Point, North Carolina. Prior to her promotion, Jackson served as the Special Projects Officer of the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing.
2/8/2025
Throughout the Marine Corps' history, people have discussed, debated and embraced the United States Marine Corps and our Marines. These discussions continue today through online conversations and social networks. This page includes several articles and handbooks from the Marine Corps as well as guidelines from the organization.
2/7/2025
This section of our website includes links to videos we'd like to share with you and in our groups and social media platforms. The videos range from the poolee stage all the way through a Marine's career in the Corps.
2/7/2025
There is one question that any good Marine will ask on a regular basis. "How can I get promoted?" That answer will vary depending on the rank of the Marine. We will keep it simple and stick to the basics of getting promoted.
Promotions are cause for celebration and Marines have their own traditions. As the parent of a Marine, you can commemorate their promotion with an engraved coin with your Marine's name, new rank, and date of promotion.
2/7/2025
The Initial Drill Evaluation tests each platoon's ability to listen to the orders of its Drill Instructor at this point in training, and is a demonstration of the unit's degree of discipline and esprit de corps. Drill is used as one of the first methods of transforming these recruits from civilians into Marines, and plays a large part on their development of teamwork and unit cohesion.
The object of close order drill is to teach Marines, through exercise, to obey orders immediately and in the correct manner. Close order drill is one foundation of discipline and esprit de corps. Additionally, it has long been, and remains, one of the finest methods for developing confidence and troop leadership abilities in lower-ranking Marines.
2/6/2025
Writing letters are the best way to stay connected to your recruit while he/she is in boot camp. You may hear someone will tell you there is a day you are supposed to stop sending letters. This may be from their own personal experience, but every situation is different.
2/6/2025
Marines attached to Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force Crisis Response Central Command, practice Marine Corps Martial Arts Program techniques during an Integrated Training Exercise aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., July 17, 2015. ITX is conducted to enhance the integration and war fighting capability from all elements of the Marine Air Ground Task Force.
2/6/2025
On February 6, 1968, two reduced Marine battalions, the 1st Battalion, 1st Marines with two companies, and 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines with three, recaptured Hue's hospital, jail, and provincial headquarters. It would take three more weeks of intense house-to-house fighting, and nearly a thousand Marines killed and wounded before the imperial city was secured.
2/5/2025
Well, it doesn't. Recruits train whether the weather is fair, cold, cloudy, or raining. But if you'd like to check the weather daily, we've got a page for that, too.
2/5/2025
The Virtual Experience includes interactive 3-D models of aircrafts and other artifacts, oral history recordings, walking tour narratives, zoomable HD photos of special exhibits and more. General James T. Conway gives an introduction to the Virtual Experience in a video featured on the Virtual Experience website.
2/5/2025
The mission of MarineParents.com is to provide support, information, and services to recruit and Marine family members and troops over the course of the life-cycle of your recruit or Marine's career in the Corps.
This sentiment is reflected in our Marine Corps Career icon. From the time your future Marine is a poolee, through boot camp, the school of infantry and military occupational schooling, permanent duty stations, and deployments. Then after your Marine's time in the Corps or if he or she is recovering from wounds or injuries sustained while serving, we have information for every step of the journey.
2/4/2025
MarineParents.com, Inc. discourages any interference with recruit training, including but not limited to photos of recruits in training, attendance at pep rallies or bus rallies, attendance at Sunday services with recruits, or anything outside the regular Family Day and Graduation Ceremony held at MCRD.
2/4/2025
Please donate today to support the organization that supports you during your Marine's career.
Your donation finances the dissemination of information to educate families about the Marine Corps, casework disaster relief for Marines and their families, and building communities for family members to have a place to connect and share® before, during, and after their loved one's service in the Marine Corps, and monetary assistance to Marine Corps family members who would otherwise be unable to attend boot camp graduation.
MarineParents.com, Inc., was founded nationally on January 21, 2003, to provide support, information, and services to Marines and their family members and create opportunities for the public to support our troops through outreach programs.
2/4/2025
The yellow ribbon in military tradition has been around for decades and perhaps centuries. The origins are unclear, and what it represents has changed over time. This article is not an all-inclusive history but an overview of the last few decades of military use.
Wearing and otherwise displaying a yellow ribbon to remember loved ones far away or to identify with a particular cause is a contemporary custom rooted in popular culture and folk tradition, some say as far back as the civil war. Indeed, you can infer that when a yellow ribbon is displayed, it's intended to signify the binding ties between loved ones separated by military conflict or long distances.
Yellow ribbons gained popularity during the Gulf War in the early 1990s and often appeared alongside the slogan "Support Our Troops." Yellow ribbons were tied to trees and seen on bumpers with the sentiment to support those sacrificing for our country a hope they would return home safely. The practice continued during the conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq after September 11, 2001.
The yellow ribbon is a living tradition and symbol of military support. It has taken on new meanings through the years. Based on history, you can surmise that its symbolism will continue to evolve.
2/3/2025
Knowing, understanding, and following the chain of command in the military is crucial. The chain of command is the system that controls the happenings, tasks, and logistics of the military. The chain of command is also the tasking authority for subordinates. The chain of command is what gives warriors structure and discipline when engaging in conflict. It is imperative to the success of our military that the chain of command exercises the correct leadership and appropriate discipline in order to ensure success.
2/3/2025
Town and Country Resort, located in San Diego’s Mission Valley neighborhood, is just 2 miles to the Marine Corps Recruit Depot and offers a comfortable and fun option for military families. Recently renovated with an authentic mid-century modern design and a friendly Southern California vibe, the resort is an ideal home base for a San Diego stay.
The resort offers a comfortable guestroom, 3 pools, a 4-story waterslide named “Twister,” 5 restaurants and bars, a penthouse fitness center with Peloton bikes, and 19 fire pits. It is pet and family-friendly with a 3-acre attached park and a host of family activities. The resort is within walking distance of Fashion Valley Mall and provides easy access to the Marine Corps Recruit Depot, beaches, and area attractions.
Making Reservations
Special rates for military families are available when you book using the RESERVE link:
2/3/2025
Learning about Marine Corps ranks is a fundamental yet vital part of life in the Corps. Not only is it essential for your Marine to know the rank structure, but it can also be helpful for loved ones to know which rank their Marine is and which ranks their Marine will work with daily.
2/2/2025
On February 2, 1944, the 4th Marine Division captured Roi-Namur and eight other islands in the Kwajalein Atoll. This was done as part of the first assault on islands controlled by the Japanese before the beginning of World War II.
2/2/2025
It is not uncommon to hear a statement like, "Marines sure do look sharp in uniform!" As a matter of fact, some Marines claim part of their motivation to join the Marine Corps was found in the desire to attain the honor of wearing the esteemed uniform.
Why do Marines look so sharp in uniform? The answer lies in their incredible attention to detail and strict uniform regulations which include specifications regarding haircuts and hygiene.
2/2/2025
We have official MarineParents Facebook groups to communicate with others with the same affiliation. Our groups are run by volunteers who have gone through 40 hours of training to facilitate the groups. Be sure to answer all three questions when you click to join a group.
2/1/2025
Marine Barracks Washington, known as "8th & I," is the oldest post in the Marine Corps and has been the residence of every Commandant since 1806. The site for the barracks, at the intersection of 8th St. and I St. in Washington, D.C., was chosen by President Thomas Jefferson and the second Commandant of the Marine Corps, Lt. Col. William Ward Burrows, after the two rode through the city looking for a suitable location. The intersection of 8th St. and I St. was chosen due to its proximity to the Washington Naval Yard and the fact that it was within easy marching distance of the Capitol building.
2/1/2025
On February 1, 1967, elements of the 3rd Marine Division began Operation Prairie II in Quang Tri province, South Vietnam. The 46-day search-and-destroy operation, which concluded on March 18, 93 Marines and 693 enemy troops were killed.
2/1/2025
On Friday, January 17, 2025, Marine Parents Travel Assistance sent Lourdes, the Mother of a recruit, to Parris Island for the recruit's graduation from November Company to become a Marine.
I would like to thank Marine Parents for the generous award which was given to me to be able to travel to my daughter’s family day and graduation, traveling from Puerto Rico to Parris Island. I have been raising my children as a divorced parent and then alone since their father passed three years ago, and I am still raising my teenage son, who is at home and in high school. I would not have been able to afford the two plane tickets, and hotel stay without receiving this assistance for my trip. More than likely, I would have had to fly alone and somehow leave my other child behind or not travel, but we were both there, thanks to you! I want to share with other parents the pride and honor you experience attending these activities. Having not seen my Marine child for 12 weeks with limited contact by mail, it was an overwhelming joy to see her finally. I felt pride and awe to see her in uniform and the amazing formation during the graduation. Thank you again, Marine Parents, and I hope to someday be able to give back so that other families don’t have to miss this important milestone in their family members’ lives. Lourdes, New Marine Mom
2/1/2025
February is Black History month. Today we are featuring the Montford Point Marines.
The Montford Point Marine Sculpture that represents the Montford Point Marines; the angle of incline represents the uphill struggle for equality, stands at the Montford Point Marines Memorial in Jacksonville, N.C., Aug. 26.
U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Christian Ayers/Released 200826-M-ZF985-1022.JPG
1/31/2025
This page is a great reference for those who want to learn military acronyms and abbreviations. The military uses many acronyms that troops must learn. There are some that are specific to a branch, including the Marine Corps.
1/31/2025
CBS News RAW: David Martin speaks with U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. William Dixon about the retirement of the honored and longstanding canine mascot, Chesty, who served his nation proudly.
1/31/2025
Making your travel plans to San Diego or Parris Island is easy enough, but what about your soon-to-be Marine? Will he/she travel back home with you for 10-day leave? How do you know what time to arrange flights?
If you didn't discuss this with your recruit prior to leaving for boot camp, and most of us did not, and the letters you're getting from your recruit aren't giving you the answers you need, where do you turn?
1/31/2025
On Friday, January 24, 2025, Marine Parents Travel Assistance sent Felicia, the Mother of a recruit, to San Diego for the recruit's graduation from Bravo Company to become a Marine.
I want to send a very special thank you to the program that helped me participate in one of the most memorable and meaningful days of our lives. Thank you to the Marine Parents Travel Assistance program. It is an amazing program that has helped parents reunite with their loved ones at graduation and make a difference in our lives. Thank you again. Felicia, New Marine Mom
1/30/2025
When it comes to Personal Security (PERSEC), there seems to be some confusion about what it is and how it can affect a Marine and their families on a daily basis. So we're going to attempt to clear it up.
First of all, PERSEC is similar but is NOT OPSEC. OPSEC deals more with the day-to-day operations going on in the Marine Corps. This can be for anything from deployment dates to weapons serial numbers to troop movements.
On the other hand, there is PERSEC. PERSEC deals more with each individual's personal security and how they safeguard their own personal information. We will talk about how it relates to deployments and social media, and how we can better protect ourselves from giving up our personal information.
The Marine Corps does not enforce PERSEC regulations as strictly as they do for OPSEC. However, that does not make PERSEC less important than OPSEC. If safety, in general, is important to you then you should be taking PERSEC seriously.
1/30/2025
The Marine Corps flag is scarlet and shows the Marine Corps emblem, which contains a fouled anchor, a globe displaying the western hemisphere, and a spread American Bald Eagle atop the globe. A ribbon held in the eagle's beak carries the Marine motto, "Semper Fidelis," (Latin for "always faithful"). Below the emblem, a larger ribbon holds the title, "United States Marine Corps."
The history of the Marine Corps flag is long and diverse. There is little information available about the flags carried by early Marines, although there is evidence that the "Grand Union" flag was carried ashore by a battalion led by Captain Samuel Nicholas on New Providence Island, Bahamas, in March of 1776. The "Rattlesnake" flag may have also been carried on that expedition.
1/30/2025
This is an important question because we can't send a letter until we get the platoon number. The address for each company is public knowledge, but mailing a letter without a platoon number causes big delays. The wrong platoon number causes even more delays. So here's the TOTAL scoop on this question.
1/29/2025
On January 29, 1991, the first serious ground combat of Operation Desert Storm broke out when Iraqi troops mounted an attack into Saudi Arabia along a 40-mile front. Iraqi units centered their efforts on Khafji, a port city six miles south of the border. Saudi and Quatari troops, supported by artillery from the 1st Marine Division, attack helicopters, and other allied coalition aircraft, recaptured the town two days later.
1/29/2025
We've been helping families understand recruit training (boot camp) for 20 years. We speak in civilian terms to help family members who are new to the military. For help navigating our website, use this map of pages on RecruitParents.com.
I couldn't have gone through my son's 13 weeks in boot camp without the support and information right here on this website. I got 13 weeks of education, too. Thank you for teaching me how to be a Marine Parent!
1/29/2025
Not every Marine that serves their country is a United States citizen. At least not always right away. There are different scenarios where a Marine can obtain citizenship from their service. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) have outlined how Marines and their spouses can become citizens through military service.
1/28/2025
The mission of After the Corps (ATC) is to provide support, information, and services to post-9/11 Marines and their family members during the transition into IRR, reintegration upon discharge, and as veterans.
This site is a great resource for you and your Marine to learn more about what to expect as he or she transitions out of active-service and rejoins the civilian world. Much of the information provided on ATC comes from the personal experiences of multiple Marine Corps veterans who work with our organization.
1/28/2025
The Marine Corps has a long and illustrious history dating back to November 10, 1775. Over the years Marines have picked up nicknames like "Devil Dog" and "Leatherneck" and have adopted phrases "Semper Fidelis," "the Few, the Proud," and "Esprit de Corps." From the Marines' Hymn to the famous Eagle, Globe, and Anchor emblem, there is much to learn about the terminology of the Corps.
1/28/2025
Spend pick-up day, more notoriously known as "Black Friday", with these recruits and their drill instructors. This is the first afternoon where recruits spend quality time with their drill instructors.
1/27/2025
Semper Gumby in the Marine Corps means "Always Flexible" and is a play on the Marine Corps slogan "Semper Fidelis" or "Semper Fi" meaning "Always Faithful". In the Marine Corps, whether a family member or a Marine, we quickly learn that Semper Gumby is a way of life! He's a true icon of the Marine Corps family.
1/27/2025
Your recruit will be introduced to his or her Drill Instructors (DIs) for the first time at the end of the first week after arriving in boot camp. Indeed, this is one of the defining moments in a recruit's training.
1/27/2025
On January 27, 1988, approximately 400 Marines and sailors from the 2nd Marine Division, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, and 2nd Force Service Support Group deployed for the Persian Gulf. The Contingency Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) CM 2-88 would relieve Contingency MAGTF 1-88 in the region and provide the effective landing force capability to Joint Task Force Middle East.
1/26/2025
Get started here preparing for your son or daughter leaving for Marine Corps Recruit Training, also known as Boot Camp at both Parris Island and San Diego.
1/26/2025
Volunteering at Marine Parents is a rewarding experience and opens many doors to new friendships and levels of support, and provides you an opportunity to lend support to other Marine Corps families, in addition to our Marines and Sailors. Volunteers at Marine Parents receive no compensation, either monetarily or with benefits.
1/26/2025
The first appearance of the “battlefield cross” is not a known fact. Some believe it may have been during the Civil War where it may have been used to signify the location of a dead soldier to be collected and buried during which time they would call a temporary truce.
1/25/2025
The Eagle, Globe, and Anchor is so much more than the Marine Corps insignia. It's a symbol of the honor, courage, and commitment of every Marine who has fought and won our Nation's battles.
1/25/2025
On January 25, 1866, Marines and sailors from the American sloop, Decatur went ashore at the village of Seattle, Washington, to protect settlers from raids by the local native population. The Native Americans launched a seven-hour attack on the settlers but were driven off later that day after suffering severe losses. Only two civilian volunteers were killed and no Marines or sailors were lost.
1/25/2025
Health insurance is just one of the many benefits offered in the Marine Corps. The health insurance offered to Marines has many complexities and at times can be confusing, and with that comes a lot of questions from parents. When to take your recruit/Marine off your insurance? When does your recruit/Marines' insurance take effect? What if your recruit/Marine is a reservist? Not only should Marines be aware of the benefits that are available to them, but their families should also be educated on them as well.
1/24/2025
Marines are known for being adaptable and creative. So what are some of the advancements they’re trying out to improve in the field? This video explains some recent technologies to make tools lighter, faster, and deadlier for the Marine Corps. Narrated by Todd South, Editor-at-Large for Military Times.
1/24/2025
Reading Books from the CRL (Commandant's Reading List) can help with promotions. How a Marine demonstrates completion of this annual requirement will be at the discretion of the commander, whether it be through a book report or guided discussion.
1/24/2025
On Friday, January 17, 2025, Marine Parents Travel Assistance sent Cynthia, the Mother of a recruit, to San Diego for the recruit's graduation from Lima Company to become a Marine.
Thank you for your assistance! Being with my firstborn son on such a critical day was something I will never forget! The memories that were created will last a lifetime, and I am so thankful to be able to be here for him! Cynthia, New Marine Mom
1/23/2025
The Marine Corps is full of traditions and customs, and that comes with many types of military etiquette. We will discuss some of the common types as they pertain to family members and their Marines and how you should act in those situations.
1/23/2025
City 24 is a luxurious condo-style hotel located 1 mile from the Marine Corps Recruit Depot, San Diego! Ooh Rah Marine Families!! This is the perfect place for your family to stay for your Marine's graduation from boot camp. City 24 offers a discounted rate for family members attending the graduation; mention Marine Parents and ask for the special rate. We look forward to serving the family members of our new Marines!
1/23/2025
You've got questions, we've got answers. In civilian terms. For help navigating our website "After the Corps" use our website map page. You guessed it, there's another whole set of acronyms to understand when your son or daughter is ready for EAS: End of Active Duty Service. We'll help you navigate this stage in the Marine Corps career as well. For help navigating our website, use this map of pages on AfterTheCorps.com.
Thanks to this organization and volunteers for keeping me informed every step of the way. I will forever feel such gratitude. During the difficult times of my Marine's career in the Corps, I felt like I wasn't alone. Two Grateful Marine Parents, 2012
1/22/2025
On January 22, 1969, Operation Dewey Canyon, arguably the most successful high-mobility regimental-size action of the Vietnam War, began in the A Shau/Da Krong Valleys when the 9th Marines, commanded by Colonel Robert H. Barrow, and supporting artillery were lifted from Quang Tri. By mid-March, the enemy's base area had been cleared out, 1617 enemy combatants had been killed, and more than 500 tons of weapons and ammunition were recovered. Barrow later went on to become the 27th Commandant of the Marine Corps.
1/22/2025
The origins of the Eagle, Globe, and Anchor insignia worn by Marines can be traced to those ornaments worn by early Continental Marines as well as to the British Royal Marines.
In 1776, Marines wore a device depicting a fouled anchor. Changes were made to that device in 1798, 1821, and 1824. An eagle was added in 1834. The current insignia dates to 1868 when Brigadier General Commandant Jacob Zeilin convened a board "to decide and report upon the various devices of cap ornaments of the Marine Corps." A new insignia was recommended and approved by the Commandant. On 19 November 1868, the new insignia was accepted by the Secretary of the Navy.
1/22/2025
Everything you need to know about Marine Corps Boot Camp Recruit Training at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot MCRD Parris Island. Our website map breaks it down into articles for you.
1/21/2025
Were you here 22 years ago when MarineParents.com first started? Do you remember when the website looked like this? Take a trip back in time with us.
On January 21, 2003, Tracy Della Vecchia registered the domain name MarineMoms.us. She had started a website to help families stay in touch with and learn from one another when their Marine sons and daughters deployed to combat in Iraq. Twenty-two years later, she's still working hard and typing as fast as the first NPR radio interview from April 2003. See link.
*The organization later adopted Marine Parents as their name when fathers indicated they also worried about their Marine in combat and wanted to participate.
A place to connect & share is a registered trademark of the United States Marine Corps. Used with permission.
1/21/2025
On January 21, 1918, the 1st Aeronautical Company arrived at Ponta Delgada, Azores, for anti-submarine duty. The unit was one of the first completely equipped American aviation units to serve overseas in World War I.
1/21/2025
When parents learn that their son or daughter has enlisted, or is contemplating enlisting, in the Marine Corps, they may go into "This can't be happening" mode - particularly those with little or no military familiarity. An infinite number of questions may immediately arise, and sometimes there are no answers.
1/20/2025
We want to share these boot camp survival tips with you. If you read nothing else about MCRD, read this. Indeed, they include four "DO NOT" rules, but this is the Marine Corps and they have rules. You'll be glad you know them.
1/20/2025
On January 20, 1968, the second battle for Khe Sanh began outside the village of the same name in the Quang Tri Province, Vietnam, 14 miles south of the DMZ and six miles east of the Laotian border, when the People's Army of North Vietnam (PAVN) launched a massive artillery bombardment on the U.S. Marine garrison. For the next 77 days, until April 6, the Marines and their South Vietnamese allies, the Army of the Republic of Vietnam (ARVN), fought off the siege in what was the longest, and one of the bloodiest, battles in the war.
1/20/2025
The Marine Corps' primary mission is to locate, close with, and destroy the enemy by fire and maneuver, as well as to repel an assault by fire and close combat during amphibious assaults and subsequent operations ashore. Combat-ready Marines must be skilled in tactics and highly proficient in firearms.
1/19/2025
All service members receive training in the U.S. military's Code of Conduct at various times in their careers.
The Code of Conduct, which was introduced by President Eisenhower in 1955, is based on time-honored concepts and traditions dating back to the American Revolution.
The six articles outline the obligations and responsibilities of U.S. service members in harm's way.
1/19/2025
Your recruit or Marine is likely in this profession for at least 4 years. It can be scary when you don't understand what's happening during each career stage of your Marine's journey. Visit the Marine Parents website to learn more about the Corps. We've got over 20 years of experience explaining things in civilian terms. Take a spin through the knowledge today!
1/19/2025
As the parents and/or family of a Marine Corps applicant or recruit, you likely have many questions. You may or may not find your son or daughter's recruiter to help answer your questions. Bear in mind your son or daughter's recruiter has a mission to accomplish and the recruiter's duties are to the Marine Corps and the applicants. Don't fret; there are plenty of other avenues to find the answers you're looking for.
1/18/2025
We've been helping Marine Corps family members navigate the Marine Corps for 20 years. We're your trusted source for information in civilian terms. For help navigating our website, use this map of pages on Marine Parents: a Place to Connect & Share®.
1/18/2025
CONGRATULATIONS to Danielle Truesdell, who recently completed 40+ hours of training to become one of our newest volunteers for the official MarineParents.com Facebook Groups in support of our Marine Corps family members and a place to connect and share®!
1/18/2025
The Crucible is a test every recruit must go through to become a Marine. It tests every recruit physically, mentally, and morally and is the defining experience of recruit training. The Crucible takes place over 54 hours and includes food, sleep deprivation, and over 45 miles of marching. The Crucible event pits teams of recruits against a barrage of day and night events requiring every recruit to work together to solve problems, overcome obstacles, and help each other along the way.
1/18/2025
On January 18, 1951, Marines with the 1st Division began operations against guerrillas near Pohang, South Korea, following the Division's return from its monumental battle with Chinese Communist forces at the Chosin Reservoir.
1/17/2025
Protein bars. Delicious and filling, a deviation from the usual and bland Marine Corps boot camp diet. It's no wonder they are the most requested item from recruits. But should you be sending them?
Here's a reasonable answer: We discourage sending anything to your recruit in boot camp other than cards and letters. If your recruit asks you to send something i.e. protein bars, then that's between you and your recruit.
1/17/2025
Enrolling for health benefits through the VA is typically a very time-consuming and confusing process. We would recommend that you speak with someone who has already gone through the process, or with a patient service representative (PSR) at the VA before beginning the enrollment process. Remember, you are not alone in this process and there is always some sort of assistance to be provided if you are lost. The paperwork is time-consuming, and you will need your DD214 along with additional documents to verify your eligibility.
1/17/2025
1/16/2025
Sign up to receive the MarineParents.com newsletter delivered once daily to your email. You'll learn about the Marine Corps and read articles on boot camp and the Marine Corps. You'll also receive coupons and specials to the EGA Shop for Marine Shirts, garden flags, and graduation gifts.
To the great folks at MarineParents.com, thanks for your web page and newsletter. We don't hear from our Marine often, so it makes us feel closer to him when we go to your site. Heartfelt Thanks!
1/16/2025
During boot camp, recruits will have their photos taken with their platoon as well as individually in the "dress blues" uniform. A video of graduation will also be produced, and that video will include footage from each battalion. Both Parris Island and San Diego offer these services. Your recruit will be given an opportunity to purchase the photos as well as the video.
1/16/2025
On January 16, 1991, Operation Desert Shield became Operation Desert Storm as allied coalition forces launched an all-out attack air campaign against targets in Iraq and occupied Kuwait in an effort to liberate Kuwait and enforce the resolutions of the United Nations Security Council. During the course of Operation Desert Storm, coalition forces included more than 415,000 American troops.
1/15/2025
Are you a seasoned Marine Parent our just starting the journey? This is great information for you to know as you meet other family members who are new to the Corps. You can help them prepare starting in the Poolee stage.
As a poolee, your son or daughter is preparing for boot camp, and the recruiters are preparing the poolees physically, intellectually, and emotionally. They have probably heard from other new Marines who have come back to the recruiter's office and shared their experience from boot camp. The recruiters are preparing the poolees the best way they can.
What about you...who has prepared you?
1/15/2025
What comes next after boot camp? Your new Marine will go to SOI. Click to learn more about SOI and ITB. MCT and ITB are both part of SOI East and SOI West. Which will your Marine attend? What will they do? Do families attend graduations? Learn More.
1/15/2025
Retrograde is the return of deployed Marines, better known as homecoming for our Marine parents, spouses, family, and friends. Homecomings include return from MEUs/floats and in-country deployments (overseas stations).
1/14/2025
If you are on Facebook, make sure you're in at least ONE of our OFFICIAL Marine Parents Facebook groups. With 21 years of experience offering recruit and Marine families a place to connect and share, we're your trusted source in social media!
1/14/2025
Photos are worth a thousand words and who doesn't love seeing photos of mascot bulldogs? Ooh Rah!
1/14/2025
Queremos compartir contigo estos consejos de supervivencia en el campo de entrenamiento. Si no lees nada más sobre MCRD, lee esto. De hecho, incluyen cuatro reglas de "NO HACER", pero este es el Cuerpo de Marines y tienen reglas. Te alegrará conocerlos.
1/13/2025
Our new Matrices have arrived! The Marine Corps changed their recruit training matrix in 2022 and we've finally our posters updated and in our store. See the link below if you need to get a new matrix.
Along with the matrices, our website contains a summary of each training week at Marine Corps boot camp. Our information comes from the official MCRD Parris Island and San Diego websites. The schedules for San Diego and Parris Island are different so be sure to select the correct tab on our page.
1/13/2025
The USMC is organized with two parallel chains of command, service and operational. The Service chain begins with the President, through the Secretary of Defense, and continues through the Secretary of the Navy and the Commandant of the Marine Corps. The operational chain runs from the President, through the Secretary of Defense, directly to commanders of combatant commands for missions and forces assigned to their commands.
1/13/2025
When formal training (boot camp, School of Infantry, and military occupational schooling) is complete, each Marine is assigned to a Permanent Duty Station (PDS).
Your Marine may be stationed at any number of permanent duty stations around the world, depending on his or her Military Occupational Specialty (the job that your Marine will do while in the Corps).
1/12/2025
The staff at Western Inn are here to serve you during your recruit's graduation from Marine Corps boot camp. We offer a special rate for Marine family members; please mention MarineParents.com when making your reservations. We are a 5 minute drive (1/2 mile) to MCRD and a 5 minute walk to the Old Town Trolley station.
1/12/2025
Our ten rules for posting in our Facebook groups have been around for a long time; nearly 20 years. They're tried and true. We firmly believe that our 10 posting rules help to keep our military safe and help to keep you and your Marine's personal information safe. We hope you'll follow our rules in all social media platforms your participate in!
1/12/2025
If you have a family emergency during your Marine's deployment or while your recruit is at boot camp, and feel you need to contact the recruit/Marine, your best course of action is to contact the American Red Cross. Please be aware that contact from the Red Cross will alert your Marine to a serious condition at home. The Red Cross has guidelines they must follow for qualifying emergency notification to your Marine.
1/11/2025
Marine Parents has official Facebook Groups for every stage of your Marine's career in the Corps. Everyone can join our primary group! Hook up with us today and join this amazing group of Marine Parents and family members!
1/11/2025
On January 11, 1945, the first elements of Marine Aircraft Group (MAG) 24, commanded by Colonel Lyle H. Meyer, arrived at Lingayen, Luzon in the Philippines to provide air support for US Army forces. Over the following three months, MAG-24, along with MAG-32, flew a combined 8,842 combat sorties and dropped more than 19,000 bombs as part of the Fifth Air Force in support of the Sixth Army.
1/11/2025
If you need help with finances to attend your recruit's graduation from boot camp, we're here for you. While we can't pay the full cost, we hope you'll apply for assistance if you have a financial need.
Attending the graduation ceremony for your newly-minted Marine is an experience every soon-to-be Marine parent would like to experience. However, some families cannot afford to attend their recruit's graduation. For each boot camp graduation cycle, we raise money to fund our Travel Assistance program. Funds are used to reimburse a recruit's family members who meet our financial need requirements.
1/10/2025
MCRD San Diego and Parris Island have a Support Battalion that functions in several capacities for each Depot. Included in the companies for this battalion is the Special Training Company (STC), which is the company recruits are assigned to should they need to be removed from the standard Recruit Training Battalion (RTBN). Taking these actions could happen for a variety of reasons, including but not limited to recruits who need medical rehabilitation (MRP), physical conditioning PCP), and evaluation (EHP).
1/10/2025
On January 10, 1995, the Pentagon announced that 2,600 U.S. Marines would be deployed to Somalia for Operation United Shield to assist the final United Nations peacekeeping troops to withdraw from the country. The decision came in response to the UN's request for American protection of its peacekeeping troops serving in Somalia.
*Image info: Official logo for Operation United Shield (released)
1/10/2025
There are a few different paths to becoming a Marine Corps officer. One path is to attend a 4-year college/National Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC). They can attend the U.S. Naval Academy, or they can go from an enlisted Marine to an officer. If you are looking for a Place to Connect and Share® with others who have loved ones in OCS or TBS, you'll want to join our Facebook group. You must answer all three questions to be accepted into the group.
1/9/2025
Please donate today to support the organization that supports you during your Marine's career.
Your donation finances the dissemination of information to educate families about the Marine Corps, casework disaster relief for Marines and their families, and building communities for family members to have a place to connect and share® before, during, and after their loved one's service in the Marine Corps, and monetary assistance to Marine Corps family members who would otherwise be unable to attend boot camp graduation.
MarineParents.com, Inc., was founded nationally on January 21, 2003, to provide support, information, and services to Marines and their family members and create opportunities for the public to support our troops through outreach programs.
1/9/2025
Important to know BEFORE you need it! Your recruit or Marine may become ill, incur an injury, or be affected by some type of incident during his/her career in the Corps. Know that this may happen and that your loved one may not be the person making the phone call to inform you.
1/2/2025
All Marines are required to go through the Individual Ready Reserve (IRR) after their initial active-service comes to an end, unless he or she chooses to reenlist.
A Marine who wishes to remain in the IRR must be in good standing and continue to uphold the traditions of honorable service. Additionally, that Marine must accrue a minimum of 50 Reserve Retirement Credit Points during their Anniversary Year* (failure to do so can lead to denial of reenlistments/extensions for enlisted Marines and discharge for both officers and enlisted Marines).
12/19/2024
For over 20 years, we've been serving the Marine Corps community and helping family members new to the Corps and military understand and follow their recruit or Marine's career. We help thousands of people like you feel closer to their Marine by providing accurate information and support throughout their careers. Your donation helps us continue our mission of supporting and educating Marine Family members. Click the image to donate.
Over 93% of our income goes to program use, with 100% of donations supporting outreach services. We've been supporting warriors and their family members since 2003 as an IRS-approved 501(c)(3) public charity eligible to receive tax-deductible donations. Receipts are sent via email or US Mail for all donations.
