Since we just passed Memorial Day, it’s a good time to thank the people who have put their lives on the line to defend the freedoms of Americans far and wide. It’s a very noble decision to join the military, and many folks who decide to bring their patriotism to the next level will often join the Marines. If you’re interested in enlisting in this branch, here is everything you need to know about joining the Marines.
The Marines have been in existence since 1775, and they’ve been a part of many of the major conflicts that have shaped the world. If you want to be a part of the tradition, there are a few things you should know, and we’ll fill you in on all the details. We’ll tell you how to get started by meeting with a recruiter and learning about the different positions available. Then, we’ll tell you about all the basic requirements of being accepted into the military, including the age range, educational level, and must-know information about the background check. Finally, we’ll disclose all the details you’ll want to know about going through the arduous boot camp.
To determine everything you need to know about joining the Marines, 24/7 Tempo began by referencing the United States Marine Corps website. Then, we cross-referenced those requirements with other sources, including Military.com, Today’s Military, and USA.gov, among others. We think you’ll find this to be a helpful guide that you can reference when making decisions about your future. (Want to learn even more about this amazing branch of the military? Check out this list of the 12 things you didn’t know about the Marines .)
What Is the Marine Corps?
The first thing you need to know about joining the Marines is what you’re getting yourself into. As a broad definition, the United States Marine Corps acts as a global strike force that engages in operations all over the world. Other job responsibilities include protecting naval bases and embassies. The Marines is part of the Navy, and it’s often referred to as the Infantry of the Navy. Basically, you could fight on land or operate on ships. However, many of the missions are top secret, so you might not know what you’re in for until you join.
You’ll Want To Meet With a Recruiter
Before you get into the Marines, you’ll first want to speak with a recruiter. They’ll sit down with you and explain the requirements and processes necessary to join the Marines. You can find a recruiter online or find a physical office in your area. If you’re really serious about enlisting but want to learn more, write out a list of questions so you aren’t going in with any uncertainty. Once you’re accepted and you complete all the paperwork, it’s difficult to backtrack, so ensure that you know what you’re getting yourself into.
Basic Requirements To Join the Marines
There are a few requirements that you’ll need to meet before you can even sign on to be a Marine. One of them is that you must be between the ages of 17 and 28. You also need to have your high school diploma before you can enlist. Finally, you’ll be required to undergo a comprehensive background check. You may get lucky and move on if you have a misdemeanor. However, you’ll be out of luck if you have any felonies on your record.
You’ll Need To Be a US Resident
A final requirement that you need to know about joining the Marines is that you must be a U.S. resident, but there are some caveats. For starters, being a U.S. resident means that you live in the United States or Puerto Rico, Guam, the Virgin Islands, American Samoa, Northern Mariana Islands, the Marshall Islands, Palau, or the Federal States of Micronesia. It’s also worth noting that properly documented noncitizens can enlist. However, there will likely be limitations on the potential opportunities.
You’ll Need To Submit to a Medical Background Screening
Before you’re accepted into the Marines, you’ll need to show that you’re medically fit to serve. If you know you have had medical issues in the past, you’ll want to be prepared by gathering medical reports that show that you’re currently in good health. Bring records of any past surgeries. Also, show tissue reports if you’ve had a lump or tumor. If you’ve been hospitalized, you’ll need records for that as well. Also, bring medical records relating to skin diseases, asthma, allergies, heart conditions, and ADD or ADHD.
The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery Test
Another thing you need to know about joining the Marines is that you’ll need to pass this ASVAB test. You’ll take this test at a Military Entrance Processing Station. Look online for a local office. This test will gauge your understanding of math, science, vocabulary, coding, mechanical engineering, reading comprehension, and electrical engineering. The maximum score you can get is 99. The minimum score you can get to join the Marines is 32. As a side note, a minimum score of 31 is required for the Army, 35 for the Navy, 36 for the Air Force, and 40 for the Coast Guard.
You’ll Need To Pass the Initial Strength Test
The Initial Strength Test (IST) is a set of assessments designed to check your abilities and endurance. Recruits will need to perform above minimum standards. All applicants must hold a plank position for 40 seconds. You must also be able to perform pull-ups and push-ups. Males must do three pull-ups or 34 push-ups in under two minutes. Females must do one pull-up or 15 push-ups in under two minutes. Finally, a male must be able to run 1.5 miles in under 13:30 minutes, and a female must be able to run 1.5 miles in under 15 minutes.
You’ll Also Need To Pass the Combat Fitness Test
The other test you’ll need to pass to get into the Marines is the Combat Fitness Test. It’s how it sounds. You’ll be tested on different skills you may need in the field. There are multiple parts, including the Movement to Contact drill, which is an 880-yard sprint. Next is the Ammunition Lift, where Marines must lift 30 pounds of ammunition overhead repeatedly in a set amount of time. Finally, there’s the Maneuver Under Fire. That’s a 300-yard test full of challenges, including grenade throwing, crawls, and dragging and carrying out a fellow Marine.
Think About a Potential Job Path Before Enlisting
One thing you may not realize about joining the Marines is that there are multiple career paths to consider. When you meet a recruiter, you need to make a decision. There are over 30 paths to choose from. Some of those options include:
- Field artillery
- Intelligence
- Infantry
- Meteorology
- Training
- Administration
- Utilities
- Logistics
- Public Affairs
Think about the skills you possess and the career that would interest you, and then see what’s available.
Boot Camp: What It’s About
If you pass the tests and you like what you hear, then you’ll be enlisted and go into boot camp. Depending on which side of the country you reside in, you’ll either attend camp in San Diego, California, or Parris Island, South Carolina. Wherever you go, you’ll be there for 13 weeks. During this process, you’ll go through many mental and physical challenges. There are four phases of Marine boot camp.
Boot Camp: Phase One
Female Marine recruits fire on the rifle range during boot camp February 25, 2013 at MCRD Parris Island, South Carolina. All female enlisted Marines and male Marines who were living east of the Mississippi River when they were recruited attend boot camp at Parris Island. About six percent of enlisted Marines are female. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images)
During the first phase of boot camp, you’ll learn a lot of the ins and outs of being in the Marines. You’ll learn the history of the branch and the core values of the Marines, including courage, honor, and commitment. You’ll also learn first aid, martial arts, and close-order drills. There are also plenty of courses about the equipment you’ll use as you take courses in weapons safety, rifle issue, weapons handling, and more.
Boot Camp: Phase Two
The next thing you need to know about joining the Marines is what’s involved in phase two of boot camp. It’s during this time that you will go through more intense training and learn skills that are there to help increase your endurance. You’ll also learn a lot of close combat skills during this phase, such as martial arts and combat conditioning. You’ll also get more academic instruction during this time.
Boot Camp: Phase Three
During phase three, you’ll test many of the skills you learned over the first two phases to determine if you’ll need additional training. This is also when you’ll undergo the crucible challenge, which is a 54-hour endurance test. It’s an assessment to show how well you’ll do in tough situations with stress and anxiety. You’ll also engage in simulated combat. During this test, you’ll work with the other recruits and learn how to operate as a team.
Boot Camp: Phase Four
The final phase of boot camp is essentially a wrap-up of what you’ve gone through so far. You’ll take a few academic and physical examinations and complete your standardized training requirements. Finally, you’ll get prepared for graduation, which includes receiving your service uniform.
Graduation Is a Big Deal
Once you pass all four phases of boot camp, you’ll be a part of a very exciting graduation ceremony. This is a two-day event where you’ll have both a graduation day and a family day. You can invite all of your family to the event and they’ll be very proud of your accomplishments. The graduation ceremony means that you’re officially a Marine.
You Get Paid During Basic Training
Once you sign the dotted line and get accepted into the Marines, you’ll enter boot camp/basic training. Since this will be the beginning of your service, you will get paid. As of the time of this writing, Marine recruits earn an annual salary of just under $20,000. However, pay will depend on your rank. You’ll be paid on the 1st and 15th of every month. As an entry-level E1 recruit, you’ll likely earn around $5,000 during basic training, plus housing and meals.
Benefits of Being in the Marines
Just like any job, you will get benefits because you work within the Marines. In addition to the steady income, you’ll get paid vacation time, complete medical and dental care at no cost, life insurance, perks come tax time, and certain allowances, like an allowance for housing. You’ll also be covered under the GI Bill, which means that the government will help with your college costs.
What To Bring to Basic Training
While you’ll be provided with uniforms and some other basics, it’s important to know what to bring to basic training. You’ll want comfortable clothes that will allow you to move freely. You’ll also need toiletries, including toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, etc. If you wear eyeglasses or contacts, don’t forget to bring them. There’s also essential paperwork, including your checking and routing information and copies of prescription medications. Finally, bring shower supplies, including your washcloth, towel, soap, shampoo, and shaving cream, if necessary.
How Loved Ones Can Contact You During Basic Training
The final thing you’ll need to know about joining the Marines is the fact that your parents won’t really have an opportunity to contact you. However, if there is a family emergency, they can call the Red Cross, and the messages will go to the recruit’s battalion. Loved ones can also keep in contact through letters and postcards. The military also recommends not sending care packages during boot camp so the recruit can focus on their training. (Want to learn about other branches of the military? Check out this list of the things you didn’t know about the Air Force .)
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