Preparing for Graduation from Bootcamp
Shopping and Restaurants
On family day and graduation day, you may shop or dine at certain establishments on the Depots without a military ID. Please see the links "Graduations: San Diego" and "Graduations: Parris Island" for specifics and where you can shop and dine.
What to Wear to Graduation
Dress comfortably and wear very comfortable walking shoes. Have a sweater or jacket for colder seasons. Many families wear graduation T-shirts on family day with their recruits battalion and color on it (see link to the right for Graduation T-shirts). Many prefer to dress less casually on graduation day, but that does not mean formal attire. Business casual is perfectly acceptable. Remember, you'll be sitting on the viewing stands, which are bleachers. You'll have to "climb" the bleachers, so mothers may prefer not to wear skirts, dresses or high-heeled shoes. You'll have to walk quite a bit. Dress neatly and comfortably.
What to Bring With You
Bring sunscreen and use it. The viewing stands have no protection from the sun, and, even on a cloudy day, you can get sunburned. Bring a stroller for younger children.
Bring a photo ID for every family member except young children. If you will be driving onto the Depot, you must have proof of vehicle registration and insurance. See the link titled "SD Base Access" or "PI Base Access" for additional information.
Taking Photos/Videos
You may take photos and videos of The Depot, the moto run, family day, the museum, the buildings, and graduation. There are areas of the Depot that are restricted access. You cannot take photos or videos in those areas nor can those areas be accessed on family day and graduation day.
Mobility Equipment Rentals
MCRD San Diego
MCRD at San Diego has mobility equipment rentals available, including strollers, wheelchairs, and electric convenience vehicles. Equipment is available on a first-come first-served basis from MCCS Guest Services (MCX Mall, B.16), beginning at 0700 Family Day and Graduation Day. Visit https://www.mccsmcrd.com/gradinfo/ for more information.
MCRD Parris Island
MCRD at Parris Island has mobility equipment rentals available, including strollers, wheelchairs, and electric convenience vehicles. Equipment is available on a first-come first-served basis from MCCS Guest Services. Use their website to arrange your rentals in advance. Visit https://mccs-sc.ticketspice.com/recruit-graduation-mobility-rentals for more the online reservation form and more information.
Nothing can make you ready for family day when you finally spot them in the run. Seeing them for first time in over three months. Then the next day. Your son has never been more handsome and the self pride in his every fiber is tangible. Those are moments you can not be ready for. It's too amazing.—Billie H., Proud Marine Parent from Iowa.
