THE GREATER THE CHALLENGE, THE GREATER THE REWARD

Expect Recruit Training to be the most physically and mentally challenging experience your son or daughter has ever been exposed to. Recruits train hard and learn constantly.

Young men and women come to the Marine Corps with the understanding that they can and will accomplish more than they ever expected. They bring with them perceived limits, and then learn to overcome them. They turn them into strengths.

Recruits learn to use their intelligence, to enhance their physical abilities, and to live as effective moral citizens with real purpose. When they finally become Marines, the change is evident to everyone around.

Graduation day is reward for the hard work and determination required to become a Marine. Parents, guardians, family members, and friends are welcome and encouraged to attend the Marine Corps Recruit training graduation ceremony. In addition, families can spend time with recruits the day before graduation. After graduation, new Marines receive 10 days of leave and are encouraged to return home for that time.