Announcements from After the Corps
If it's new on the After the Corps website, you'll find an announcement about it here. We bring new resources, events and information to the website frequently.
Knowledge is Power!
Learn more at Recruit Parents
4/10/2025
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.
The Eagle, Globe, and Anchor (EGA)
Learn more about the origins of the Eagle, Globe, and Anchor.
4/10/2025
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.
Lieutenant Colonel John H. Glenn Selected for Space Training
April 10, 1959 in Marine Corps History.
4/10/2025
On April 10, 1959, Lieutenant Colonel John H. Glenn, Jr. was named as one of the original seven Project Mercury astronauts selected for space training. All seven astronauts were volunteers and were selected by NASA out of a pool of 110 candidates, all of whom were leading military test pilots. Just under three years later, in February of 1962, Glenn became the first American to orbit the Earth.
Boot Camp Survival Tips for Parents
If you read nothing else, read this article.
4/9/2025
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.
The Marine Parents Website
22 Years of Information in Civilian Terms
4/9/2025
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®.
Homecomings
Marine Units Returning Stateside
4/9/2025
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).
The Recruiters
Are They Your Resource for Questions?
4/8/2025
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.
The United States Military Code of Conduct
Learn about the U.S. Military Code of Conduct at Marine Parents
4/8/2025
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.
Knowledge is Power!
Visit Marine Parents to Learn about the Corps
4/8/2025
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!
Marine Parents Donations
Your Gift Supports Families Through Bootcamp
4/7/2025
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.
Professional Photos and Videos
Taken of Recruits During Boot Camp
4/7/2025
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.
Newsletter Sign Up
Stay in-the-know with our daily information newsletters as well as EGA Shop Promotions.
4/7/2025
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!
Navigating the VA Healthcare System
We're here to help you navigate the VA healthcare system.
4/6/2025
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.
Protein Bars in Boot Camp
Written by a Marine who served USMC '08-'12
4/6/2025
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.
3 Reasons to Shop at the EGA Shop
Official Marine Corps Licenses, Nonprofit, Great Products!
4/6/2025
- We are an official trademark licensee of the United States Marine Corps. Royalty fees support Marine Corps morale programs on posts around the world.
- As a nonprofit corporation, 100% of the proceeds support our outreach programs.
- We have great products and designs for every member of your family!
Congratulations to Amanda Hawkins, our newest Volunteer!
Amanda completed 40+ hours of training and mentoring!
4/5/2025
CONGRATULATIONS to Amanda Hawkins 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®!
Preparing for Boot Camp
For your Poolee and for YOU!
4/5/2025
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?
1st Marine Division Clashes with Communist Chinese Forces
April 5, 1947 in Marine Corps History.
4/5/2025
On April 5, 1947, five Marine guards were killed and eight more were wounded during an attack by Communist Chinese forces near the Hsin Ho ammunition depot in northern China. This was the last major clash between the 1st Marine Division and Communist Chinese forces and occurred just four days after the 1st Division and 1st Marine Aircraft Wing had received their withdrawal and redeployment plans from China on April 1.
April 5th is Gold Star Spouses Day
Designated in 2017 by the US Senate
4/5/2025
In 2017, the United States Senate designated April 5th as Gold Star Spouses Day, to allow Americans to pay respect to the spouses of fallen servicemembers. Take a moment to show your support and show Gold Star Spouses that we remember their sacrifice.
Join an Official Marine Parents Facebook Group
Make sure you get the most accurate information! Join OUR groups.
4/4/2025
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!
Consejos para padres
Leer en Español
4/4/2025
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.
Bulldogs in the Marine Corps
We've added a few photos of Marine Corps mascot bulldogs
4/4/2025
Photos are worth a thousand words and who doesn't love seeing photos of mascot bulldogs? Ooh Rah!
MCRD San Diego Graduations
A Great Hotel 2 Miles from MCRD!
4/3/2025
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:
Learning About the Red Cross
How they help family members during an emergency
4/3/2025
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.
3rd Amphibious Corps Progresses on Okinawa
April 3, 1945 in Marine Corps History.
4/3/2025
On April 3, 1945, Marines with the 3rd Amphibious Corps continued to progress along their front on the Japanese island of Okinawa, clearing Zampa Misaki and seizing the Katchin Peninsula. This effectively cut the island in two and was accomplished more than a week ahead of the schedule originally set by Marine Corps leaders.
Structure of the Marine Corps
Learn More About the Corps in Civilian Terms
4/2/2025
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.
Permanent Duty Stations (PDS)
Do you know what a Permanent Duty Station is?
4/2/2025
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).
Marine Corps Boot Camp Training Weeks
Here is a summary of the training weeks at boot camp.
4/2/2025
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.
April is Month of the Military Child
Established in 1986 by then-Defense Secretary Caspar Weinberger
4/1/2025
Marine Parents would like to take this opportunity to recognize the sacrifices and support of the approximately 2 million U.S. military children 18 years old and younger who have one or both parents serving in the armed forces.
Knowledge is Power
Learn About SOI EAST & SOI WEST
4/1/2025
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.
The Crucible During Recruit Training
The Crucible is a test every recruit must go through to become a Marine.
4/1/2025
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.
The Official Marine Parents Facebook Group
Join us today to meet other Marine Parents!
3/31/2025
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!
10 Rules for Posting
Useful for all Social Media Platforms
3/31/2025
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!
Marine Corps Barracks 8th & I
March 31, 1801 in Marine Corps History.
3/31/2025
On March 31, 1801, the second Commandant of the Marine Corps, Lieutenant Colonel William W. Burrows, rode with then-President Thomas Jefferson in search of, "a proper place to fix the Marine Barracks on." The two chose a square in Southeast Washington, at 8th and I streets, due to its proximity to the Navy Yard, as well as being within marching distance of the Capitol.
Travel Assistance is Available
Do you need financial help to attend boot camp graduation?
3/30/2025
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.
Medical Care and Emergencies
Injury, Illness, or Incident of Your Marine or Recruit
3/30/2025
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.
IRR Obligations and Requirements
Learn about the requirements for the Individual Ready Reserve.
3/30/2025
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).
National Vietnam Veterans Day
March 29 Each Year
3/29/2025
Vietnam Veterans Day is annually observed on March 29. It was chosen to be observed in perpetuity as March 29, 1973 was the day United States Military Assistance Command, Vietnam was disestablished and also the day the last U.S. combat troops departed Vietnam. In addition, on and around this same day Hanoi released the last of its acknowledged prisoners of war.
It commemorates the hardships suffered and sacrifices made by nine million Americans during the Vietnam War. However, the holiday does not only honor the former soldiers but also their families who supported them before and after the war.
MCRD Support Battalion is not RTBN
More Acronyms: STC, MRP, PCP, EHP
3/29/2025
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).
How to Become an Officer in the Marine Corps
Learn the different ways to become a Marine Corps Officer.
3/29/2025
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.
Combat Hunter Course
Learn about the Combat Hunter Course that Marines go through at SOI.
3/28/2025
In the Marine Corps, "Combat Hunter" is more than just a title, it's a mindset. It's a challenge for Marines to be more intuitive and more aware of their surroundings. The "Combat Hunter" course is designed to teach Marines how to track targets, friendly or enemy, by noticing differences in the environment around them.
Marines are taught three main skills throughout the Combat Hunter course: tracking, observation, and profiling. These skills are the foundation of the program and teach Marines to be aware of dangers at all times. The observation and pattern analysis skills inherent to hunting help Marines identify a threat, reduce the risk of casualties, and increase their chances of survival. Marines learn to balance movement with stealth and speed. They are taught to take into consideration how they could be viewed by a target on a potential landscape and to take advantage of concealment when possible.
Red Friday: Our Historical Participation
Written by Tracy Della Vecchia, Our Founder
3/28/2025
Are you wearing red today? There are many variances of how "Red Friday" got started in the United States. While I can't state whether or not those accounts are accurate, I can share how we adopted the phrase as an organization to promote wearing red on Fridays.
Marine Corps Boot Camp Structure
Training Battalions, Companies, and Platoons
3/28/2025
There are two facilities for Marine recruit training. Marine Corps Recruit Depots (MCRDs) are located in San Diego, California, and Parris Island, South Carolina. Their acronyms are MCRDSD and MCRDPI, respectively.
Marine Corps Pay and Allowances
Information regarding your Marine's pay
3/27/2025
There are many components to Military Pay. There is basic pay, special pay, incentives, allowances, and sometimes retirement pay, for those that serve long enough. This page on our website explains the differences in the pay your Marine may receive during their career in the Marine Corps. We include several links for those who may want to dig deeper into the topic.
OPSEC in Boot Camp
Is it REALLY Necessary NOW?
3/27/2025
What's critical is that you are aware of what OPSEC is. You can protect your loved ones by protecting the information that you know. This is known in the military as "Operations Security" or OPSEC.
In this series of articles on "Becoming a Marine Parent", we've talked a little bit about privacy and respect, noting that both are important concepts to learn as the parent of a recruit. As your recruit nears graduation, the concept of Operations Security becomes just as important to understand.
TAPS/TAMP - Transition Assistance Programs
Learn about the process Marines go through as they transition out of the Marine Corps.
3/26/2025
Before your Marine's end of active service (EAS) date, he or she will be required to go through a series of classes, discharge medical checks, terminal leave documents, separation documents, check out sheets, and more. These will assist your Marine during the process of ending their active service and after their separation from the Marine Corps.
Letters Sent Home from Recruits
What to Expect, When to Expect, How it All Works
3/26/2025
You may be a lucky parent and receive a lot of mail from your recruit. Many are not so lucky, as recruits are very busy during boot camp and will likely be using every spare moment to study and get caught up on work related to becoming a Marine. Recruits are given time to write, but it is up to each individual recruit to choose what he or she needs to do during that free time.
Deployment: Embassies
Learn about the force that provides security for United States embassies around the world.
3/26/2025
One of the most visible functions of the United States Marine Corps is the Marine Special Duty Detail. This is the force that provides Embassy security duty for United States Facilities around the world.
Communicating a Family Emergency to Your Deployed Marine
Notifying your Marine of an emergency is best done through the American Red Cross.
3/25/2025
Things are different in the military. If your family has an emergency, how do you let your recruit or deployed Marine know about it? While we all hope that we don't need to know, it's better to be prepared and understand the next steps for notifying your loved one who is serving our country. This article is an essential read to gain that understanding no matter where your recruit or Marine are in their journey.
If you have a family emergency during your Marine's deployment and feel you need to contact the Marine, your best 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. The Red Cross can be contacted for birth announcements of a Marine's new baby.
Becoming a Marine Parent
A 13-Week Journey for You, Too.
3/25/2025
Your loved ones have enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and now YOUR journey begins as well. As they get ready to leave for boot camp they are busy preparing for their career as one of "The Few, The Proud." One of the most important steps for loved ones at home is already completed! You have joined Recruit Parents and are well on your way to becoming informed, educated and supported by others experiencing the same emotions.
Deployment Pages on Marine Parents
About Deployment, OPSEC, Emergencies, and Support
3/24/2025
Got a deployment looming? In the middle of deployment? It happens and Marines love it, but their family members, not so much. Remember, information is power. Here's what you need to know to lessen the bumps in the road.
I had two sons and a daughter-in-law deployed at the same time: two soldiers and one Marine. This website was my go-to every single morning. It was my saving grace. I never did find an Army site like this one, but you helped me through that, as well. Thank you.—Jackie, Marine Mom in Missouri, 2006
Knowledge is Power!
Learn more about what's after boot camp!
3/24/2025
Everything you need to know about what comes after Marine Corps Boot Camp Recruit Training. What's the next phase of training for your newly minted Marine? Our website map for "What's After Boot" breaks it down into articles for you.
Weather Emergencies & Boot Camp
Natural Disasters During Recruit Training
3/24/2025
Any area of the country is subject to natural disasters. The Marine Corps Recruit Depot (MCRD) at Parris Island is subject to hurricanes. The Marine Corps Recruit Depot at San Diego, as well as other bases in the San Diego-area, are subject to fires. Being informed and understanding how the Marine Corps handles a natural disaster will help you feel confident that your son or daughter will be safe during boot camp, regardless of environmental factors.
Marine Corps Boot Camp Terminology and Acronyms
Learn some of the earliest terminology your recruit is taught during boot camp.
3/23/2025
There are literally thousands of acronyms in the United States Marine Corps (USMC) and all branches of the military and there are hundreds of new terms to learn. This reference is a starting point for recruit families—those that are most important to learn during recruit training. After graduation, there are additional resources with more terminology on the primary website for MarineParents.com. But these are the most important to learn at this time.
Marine Corps Challenge Coins
Do you know about the tradition of carrying the challenge coin?
3/23/2025
Among the Marine Corps' many traditions is the carrying of the challenge coin, and it is rooted in history dating back to World War I.
Today, service members possess many medallions, or challenge coins, bearing their organization's insignia. These coins are often presented by high-ranking officers for a job well done, which is a great honor. They are also sometimes traded between men and women in a unit.
CACO Terminology
Casualty Terminology During Deployment
3/22/2025
A casualty is a member of the military unable to fulfill their duties due to death or incapacitation by injury or illness. For families of our military, the term "casualty" conjures up images of destruction and death. It's a tough term to grapple with when you've got a Marine deployed or soon to be deploying.
However, knowledge is power, and we firmly believe that educated families are better able to handle the rollercoaster of deployment emotions. So, let's dig into some terminology and procedures.
Your Recruit is a Recruit, Not a Marine
What it means to say the title is earned, never given
3/22/2025
This page of our website includes several great articles to read during the first week your recruit is in boot camp. In the Marine Corps, a recruit must earn the title of United States Marine. A recruit is not a Marine when they enlist. A recruit is not a Marine when they step on the yellow footprints.
The Commandant and Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps
Learn about the highest-ranking officer and enlisted Marine in the Marine Corps.
3/22/2025
The Commandant of the Marine Corps commands the United States Marine Corps and is the senior officer of the United States Marine Corps. The Commandant is not necessarily the highest-ranking officer in the Marine Corps, but holding the position of Commandant makes him senior to all other officers regardless of rank.
The Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps is selected by the Commandant of the Marine Corps and serves as the senior enlisted advisor to the Commandant. The Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps is revered as the most outstanding, unparalleled enlisted Marine.
Support the Organization that Supports YOU
Your Donation Makes a Difference
3/21/2025
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.
Addressing Letters to Recruits
Be sure to properly address letters to your recruit so they arrive as quickly as possible.
3/21/2025
During the first two weeks of recruit training, recruits will send home a letter stating they've made it to MCRD and will provide an address for which to receive mail.
All mail is routed through the only mail office on the depot. Your mail will not reach your recruit without the correct COMPANY AND PLATOON NUMBER. The mail office will see that information and sort the mail to that company and platoon. The company and platoon information will be listed on the letter your recruit sends home about 2 - 3 weeks into training.
Individual Ready Reserve Information
For many Marines, the end of active-duty is not the end of their Marine Corps career.
3/20/2025
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. If a recruit enlists prior to the required age of enlistment, he or she would be placed in the Delayed Entry Program. The benefit of the Delayed Entry Program is that it counts towards the time spent in the IRR after separation from the service. So, if your Marine was in delayed entry for one year, he or she would only be in the IRR for 3 years after separation.
Corps Respect: A Family Value
What is it all about? What do Marines call it?
3/20/2025
By now you've likely heard some new terminologies from your recruit or through reading information about the Marine Corps. While trying to get yourself wrapped around the meanings of some of these new terms, you may be seeing the same theme throughout, but you've not really been successful at labeling that term.
Wisdom Teeth
If necessary, boot camp is the best time to have wisdom teeth removed.
3/19/2025
The Marine Corps has made it a common practice to remove wisdom teeth during boot camp. While every situation is different, the reasons are usually the same.
MarineParents.com Founder and executive director, Tracy Della Vecchia, has told a story of her son, Derrick, getting his wisdom teeth removed while he was in the Marine Corps. Only, Derrick's wisdom teeth weren't removed during boot camp. His unit was in Japan conducting training when his were removed. Soon after, the unit got the call that they were going to Iraq. Derrick sat on the plane with bloody rags in his mouth and spent his first few days in combat healing. There are many stories out there just like this one. So if your recruit has to get their wisdom teeth removed in boot camp, be thankful; it's much better than on deployment.
Structure of a Marine Corps Regiment
Learn how a Marine Corps Regiment is structured from top to bottom.
3/19/2025
The United States Marine Corps is a unique branch of the US military and is organized as part of the Department of the Navy. With over 241 years of warfighting experience and distinct prestige, the Marine Corps has mastered the art of military structure.
Can You Help Us?
Volunteer Print Graphic Design Needed
3/19/2025
We have an immediate need for a print graphic designer to work with the executive director and several key volunteers to develop a new printed Marine Corps Recruit Training Matrix. We no longer employ graphic designers in house.
This is a volunteer position. The work would require between 20-30 hours of design work using Adobe InDesign to prepare a 2-sided print-ready 11x17 training matrix. The skill base required would be highly proficient in Adobe InDesign with the ability to prepare documents to be published at a commercial printer.
Can you help us or do you know someone who can? Please forward this message to people you may know that could help.
If you are interested, we ask that you complete a Google Form which goes directly to Tracy Della Vecchia, the founder and executive director of the organization. The link follows.
What's After Boot™ FAQ
Got questions? We've got answers!
3/18/2025
This is our FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) page for recruit and Marine parents to understand what happens AFTER boot camp. More schooling! Yep, there you have the short answer. But you've likely got more questions, so tune in to this page to learn more!
Tradition of the Yellow Footprints
Excerpt from an April, 2009 Marine Corps Article
3/18/2025
4/10/2009 by Lance Corporal Ed G., MCRDPI.
As the air brakes hiss, hearts beat faster, palms sweat, breaths become shorter and a bus of hopeful recruits are unified by the fear of the unknown.
These are the experiences of so many recruits who have passed through Parris Island's main gate.
Sole Surviving Son
Learn the history of Sole Surviving Son during war and peacetime.
3/17/2025
Contrary to popular belief, "only sons," "the last son to carry the family name," and "sole surviving sons" must register and they can be drafted. However, they may be entitled to a peacetime deferment if there is a military death in the immediate family.
Boot Camp: New for You or Memories?
Firing Week and Qualification Day During Boot Camp
3/17/2025
During Firing Week, the second week of marksmanship training, recruits begin before sunrise, preparing their rifles and themselves to shoot the known-distance course of fire.
Recruits prepare for rifle qualification day by firing rounds of both slow fire (one shot at a time) and rapid-fire (10 shots in a row). Recruits fire from four shooting positions at ranges of 200, 300, and 500 yards.
School of Infantry: Camp Geiger
Basic info about SOI East + Grad Date Schedule
3/17/2025
Camp Geiger, North Carolina, is one of two School of Infantry (SOI) locations where newly-minted Marines will be instructed on modern Marine Corps infantry tactics in order to conduct expeditionary combat operations. Camp Geiger is a satellite facility of Camp Lejeune and is located in eastern North Carolina, approximately 250 miles east of Charlotte, NC and 50 miles north of Wilmington, NC.
History of the Marine Corps from Marine Parents
A Learning Opportunity for Proud Marine Parents
3/16/2025
This page of our website includes an overview of Marine Corps history, something every proud parent of a Marine should be familiar with. This is your learning opportunity! You can check it out on our website.
Knowledge is Power!
Learn more at Recruit Parents
3/16/2025
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.
Marine Corps Physical Fitness
Learn about the physical fitness standards that allow Marines to perform so well in combat.
3/16/2025
When asked what your son or daughter is doing these days, you may have noticed a very impressed reaction when you tell whoever asked that he/she is a United States Marine. Undoubtedly, this is due to the illustrious history of the Corps, the rigorous 13-week boot camp, and the expectation that the Marines are in optimal shape. But what is the Marine Corps' secret to this standard of excellence? It has to do with the emphasis that individual Marines and the Corps place on physical conditioning.
Types of Deployment
Learn the different types of deployments for Marines.
3/15/2025
Marines are always the first to fight, but combat deployments are not the only deployments that your Marine could be a part of. The deployment section of our website goes over each deployment type to prepare you and your Marine for what could be ahead.
WAB: What Comes After Boot Camp?
3/15/2025
What happens when your Marine graduates and leaves the Marine Corps Recruit Depot? Where does your new Marine go next? What's After Boot?
To that end, every Marine goes on to additional weapons training at the at School of Infantry (SOI) following boot camp graduation. Your Marine will have specific written orders before departure from the Recruit Depot.
Mail and Packages During Boot Camp
You may begin writing to your recruit as soon as you receive his/her address.
3/15/2025
Though your recruit may move from one location to another during boot camp, you will always use the same mailing address for him or her.
The first letter you receive from your recruit will be a form letter. This letter should arrive in your mailbox approximately 10-14 days after they leave. The form letter should include your recruit's mailing address.
Sgt Major Brad Kasal, Legendary Marine
34 Years in the Marine Corps and the Finest Leadership
3/14/2025
Sergeant Major Bradley Kasal is one of the most legendary Marines in Marine Corps history. While he is most well-known for the iconic photograph of him being helped from a building in Fallujah, Iraq by two of his Marines, he is equally well-known by Marines for his leadership and courage.
Licencia de 10 Días
Después de la Graduación de Boot Camp
3/14/2025
La siguiente fase de entrenamiento después del campamento de reclutamiento es SOI, o Escuela de Infantería. Su nuevo Marine tiene derecho a diez días de licencia después de reclutamiento. Su nuevo Marine puede reportarse a SOI antes de tiempo para guardar la licencia si lo desea.
Official Links to SOI Websites and Resources
Use these official links for useful resources at SOI East and West.
3/14/2025
The websites on this page are official USMC websites and offer additional information on the topic of the School of Infantry (SOI) in the "What's After Boot?" category.
US Dept of Navy and Marine Corps
Learn the structure of the Navy and Marine Corps
3/13/2025
It's a question often asked by new Marine and Navy parents, what is the relationship between the Navy and the Marine Corps? The Navy provides support to the Marines through Navy Docs, Chaplains, and Transportation by ship, among other things. This page on our website looks at the U.S. Navy and the Marine Corps organization.
If you're in the San Diego area: MUST SEE
Marine Corps Recruit Depot Command Museum
3/13/2025
If you're in the San Diego area, stop in to the museum at the Recruit Depot. If you're going to graduation, your newly-minted Marine will most likely insist on it. They are proud of their history and want to share that with you. Our website offers additional information about the museum along with a slide show of images. Check it out!
Graduation Dates for Marine Corps Boot Camp
View the upcoming ship and graduation dates for recruit training at Recruit Parents
3/12/2025
Do you have a poolee shipping to boot camp soon? Or maybe you have a recruit who will graduate from recruit training in a month or so. This page will help you find what you're looking for. We keep this page up-to-date as the Marine Corps announces changes to their recruit training graduation schedule. We understand communication with your recruit can be sporadic at times. We hope this page will help ease some of your concerns!
Military Resources
Vetted and Approved by Marine Parents
3/12/2025
Are you looking for reliable resources, education, information, or legitimate organizations? On this page of our website, you'll find a list of resources recommended by MarineParents.com.
Hotels & Amenities Near MCRD San Diego
For boot camp graduations
3/11/2025
Marine Parents would like to thank the businesses that contribute to our programs. The following have paid for listings on this page. Funds from corporate sponsors go toward the operating costs of the websites and services supporting Marines and Marine Corps families throughout their careers. If you are the manager/owner of a hotel in the San Diego area and would like to add your hotel information to this page, don't hesitate to contact us by text or phone at (573) 449-2003.
Embracing All Stages of the Marine Corps
Why We Need to Support and Respect EVERY Stage of the Journey
3/11/2025
From Marine Parents Founder, Tracy Della Vecchia:
As I reflect on the 20 years of service to Marines and their family members there is one thing I know: everyone is in a different stage of being a Marine family member. Prior to 9/11, I had no idea that the course of my existence would change so drastically. But it did. My son was at Marine Corps boot camp in San Diego and our country was going to war.
When you compare the journey of each of our Marine Parents, family members, and Marines, we each have our own stories to tell and we're each on the journey at a different level of understanding and the emotions that go along with it. It's important to embrace the career stage that each of us is experiencing, as that is the definition of the Marine Corps family.
School of Infantry: Foot Patrol
Because Every Marine is a Rifleman
3/10/2025
While attending the School of Infantry (SOI), Marines will be instructed on how to conduct foot patrols in both urban and rural environments. Learning the proper techniques of foot patrolling is a critical component to becoming a rifleman, as patrolling is a key element of asserting combat power and gaining battlefield dominance to accomplish the mission.
DD 214 Information
The DD214 is the Department of Defense's verification form to prove that an individual was in the military.
3/10/2025
The DD Form 214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, generally referred to as a "DD 214", is a document of the United States Department of Defense, issued upon a military service member's retirement, separation, or discharge from active-duty military service.
Graduation Photos, Videos, & Yearbooks
This information will help you find graduation videos and yearbooks for either Recruit Depot.
3/10/2025
Sometimes graduation videos and yearbooks can get lost or damaged. If this happened to you and you want to get new ones, this page will help you find the contact information for those who make the videos and yearbooks.
Graduation & Travel
Everything you need to know about graduation & travel for Marine Corps boot camp.
3/9/2025
Could there be more i's to dot and t's to cross when you're getting ready to go to your recruit's graduation from boot camp? Talk about an overwhelming time! Some families have never traveled out of state. For others, it's an old hat. Regardless, it's the moment you've been waiting to get that first hug from your newly-minted Marine! We've got tips for ALL travelers: both seasoned and brand new.
This page contains all the information you need for graduation and travel for Marine Corps boot camp. Some information for Parris Island and San Diego is different so be sure to choose the correct headings.
Navigating VA loans with After the Corps™
Learn the different home loan options available to veterans through the Department of Veteran's Affairs (VA).
3/9/2025
There are a number of different home loan options available to veterans through the Department of Veteran's Affairs (VA). The intent of the loans is to provide qualifying individuals with favorable terms through private lenders. The VA guarantees specific portions of the loan, which in turn allows a home-buyer to pay reduced rates.
Marine Reserves and Education Benefits
Factors that Dictate Eligibility
3/8/2025
As a reserve Marine, some factors could dictate which education programs and benefits you are eligible for. When deciding which education assistance to use, consider where you are in your service and education level. Read more on our website.
Official Marine Parents Groups
For Boot Camp, Poolee, and Medical Rehab
3/8/2025
Please join the POOLEE group FIRST. You can join that group any time after your poolee enlists or intends to enlist. Join the RECRUIT groups up to 2 weeks prior to their ship date. Learn more on our website.
Grupos Oficiales de Marine Parents en Español
Official Marine Parents Facebook Groups in Spanish
3/7/2025
Siga el enlace a continuación para unirse a un grupo oficial para familiares de Marines en Facebook para familias de habla hispana:
Para unirse a nuestros grupos de Facebook, debe responder claramente a las tres preguntas en el pedido de entrada.Graduation from Marine Corps Boot Camp
When your recruit becomes a Marine!
3/7/2025
Family and friends of Marine Corps Recruits are strongly encouraged to attend the graduation ceremonies for the announcement that your Recruit has earned the respected title of United States Marine. Graduation is two-part: Thursday is "Family Day" and Graduation is Friday. The Marine Corps will have activities planned for both days.There is typically a dinner held on the Wednesday prior to family day now.
Oath of Enlistment
Learn about the Marine Corps Oath of Enlistment.
3/7/2025
The final step of joining the Marine Corps before departing for boot camp or Officer Candidate School is being sworn in by repeating the enlisted or officer Oath.
Hotels & Amenities Near MCRD Parris Island
For boot camp graduations
3/6/2025
Marine Parents would like to thank the businesses that contribute to our programs. The following have paid for listings on this page. Funds from corporate sponsors go toward the operating costs of the websites and services supporting Marines and Marine Corps families throughout their careers. If you are the manager/owner of a hotel in the San Diego area and would like to add your hotel information to this page, don't hesitate to contact us by text or phone at (573) 449-2003.
Funding to Travel to Boot Camp Graduation
Learn how to Help Others or Ask for Help
3/6/2025
The mission of Marine Parents Travel Assistance is to support Marine Corps recruits by assisting one of their family members who show significant financial need to attend boot camp graduation events, so the Marine is not alone.
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. We raise money for each boot camp graduation cycle to fund our Travel Assistance program. Funds reimburse a recruit's family members who meet our financial need requirements. Administrative costs for the program are funded through Marine Parents. Recipients are not required to repay the travel costs.
Looking for TRUSTED Deployment Information?
Marines Want to Deploy. Parents? Not So Much.
3/6/2025
Your son or daughter joined the Marine Corps to serve their country; being deployed is part of their job. It's the part of their job most Marines desire. As the parent of a Marine, deployment feels scary. But it doesn't have to be. Our mission is to provide you with information to better understand and prepare YOU for what to expect during deployment. This website page is worth a glance today; knowing you can turn to Marine Parents is the takeaway.
+We've been sharing information with family members during deployments since January 2003. Our information is accurate and trusted. And we speak your language. We have worn YOUR shoes.
I somehow feel closer to my son when I read the information on your website. Thank you for giving that to me.
About Boot Camp: The Crucible
Lighting a Candle During the Crucible
3/5/2025
Over the past 20+ years, many family members of recruits have lit candles to burn the entirety of the crucible, showing support for their soon-to-be Marines. Some people may put a battery-operated candle in their window or turn on their recruit's bedroom light to help guide them "Home" and give them the strength to get through the event. It is also common to tell friends and family to turn on a porch light to show their support.
Official Marine Corps Publications
This page includes links to official Marine Corps publications
3/5/2025
Learn from the source! This website page links to official United States Marine Corps publications. The page includes links to the DOD website and the Marines Social Meda Handbook.
Uniforms of the Marine Corps
Learn about YOUR Marine's Uniforms: 3 Different Types
3/5/2025
The link below to the website page includes a chart to understand better the uniforms your Marine is wearing. The chart is an excellent reference as well as a learning tool. You can also learn about the differences between uniforms in other branches of the service.
After the Corps: The GI Bill
Good to Know BEFORE Leaving the Corps
3/4/2025
The term "GI Bill" refers to any educational benefits provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs earned by members of the armed forces and their family members. These benefits are designed to assist service members and eligible veterans cover the costs associated with receiving a higher education or job training. There are several GI Bill programs, and each is administrated differently depending on the individual's eligibility and duty status.
Support the Organization that Supports Marines
Your Donation Makes a Difference
3/3/2025
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.
Recruit Parents Facebook Profile Photo
Choose your Battalion, Add Your Name
3/3/2025
Make your custom Facebook profile photo with the yellow footprints or the EGA for your recruit's battalion and your recruit's platoon number! Use first names only, please!
We're on Instagram
@MarineParentsInc and we'd love you to join us!
3/2/2025
We've got great stuff on Instagram and adding more content daily. Take a minute to follow us and see what's up!
Reasons to Shop at the EGA Shop
When you shop at the EGA Shop, you support the troops and our outreach programs!
3/1/2025
When you shop at the MarineParents EGA Shop, 100% of the proceeds support the outreach programs of the organization. We've been helping Marines and their family members since 2003, and your purchase helps to support Marine Corps families! THANK YOU for shopping with us!
MarineParents.com a Place to Connect & Share® is a registered trademark of the United States Marine Corps. Used with permission. Content and graphics copyright to MarineParents.com, Inc. All rights reserved worldwide. For additional information on legal use visit the legal page of our website. MarineParents.com is an IRS-approved 501(c)(3) public charity.
Recruit Training
Prac App Test & Written Testing
2/28/2025
Recruits spend a great deal of time in the classroom during recruit training and, during weeks 10 and 11 of boot camp, they must prove they have retained the abundance of information they were taught. Recruits must perform a Final Practical Application Test, as well as a Final Written Academic Test.
Life in the Corps Website Map
Marine Corps Knowledge, Marine Life, History, and Tradition
2/28/2025
These pages of our website are rich with information that you'll want to know while your loved one is in the Corps. We bring it to you in civilian terms. For help navigating our website, use this map of pages for Life in the Marine Corps.
The information I've learned from MarineParents.com websites has been incredible. They give me information in civilian terms. I feel more informed, but more importantly, I feel closer to my daughter in her journey in the Marine Corps. Semper Family, and thank you!—Marine Mom Genevieve from Plano, TX in 2020
THE Transformation
From Civilian to Marine in 13 Weeks
2/27/2025
Read this story from the Founder of MarineParents.com, Tracy Della Vecchia. Included in the article on Recruit Parents are videos of the transformation from the Marine Corps.
My son was a Recruit in boot camp on 9/11. He'd been there two weeks. The time between then and when he graduated on November 21, 2001, seemed to last forever. I was glued to the news and wanted a letter from him every day. I only got three letters and two very short phone calls.
SOI: School of Infantry
It's What's After Boot Camp
2/27/2025
All graduates of Marine Corps recruit training attend the School of Infantry (SOI). At SOI, they will train with one of two training battalions, either MCT or ITB. All non-infantry Marines attend training at Marine Combat Training Battalion (MCT), while infantry Marines (all Marines with a Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) of 03xx) attend training at Infantry Training Battalion (ITB).
Official Marine Parents Memes
We have memes for volunteers and members to use in social media!
2/27/2025
We have created memes for volunteers and members to use on social media. Please do not alter or crop these images.
On a computer, right-click the image and click "Save Image As" to save the image to your downloads. On a mobile device, tap and hold your finger on the image and tap "Save Image" to download the image to your camera roll.
Search the MarineParents Website
Got questions? We've got ANSWERS!
2/26/2025
Your journey with your Marine will lead you to more questions. And we've got answers on our website. On every page of our websites, we've got a search tool. Enter the subject in the search box, and it will search all of our websites for the answer.
Complete Care During Boot Camp
From Health and Wealth to Religious Ministries
2/26/2025
Marine Corps boot camp recruits receive the best training possible and are cared for throughout their thirteen weeks on the Recruit Depot. Every base, including Religious Ministries, is covered from injury prevention and dental treatment to recruit pay and the Thrift Savings Plan.
MPTA is Travel Assistance
We help fund a family member to attend boot camp graduation!
2/26/2025
The mission of our Travel Assistance program is to support Marine Corps recruits by assisting one of his/her family members who show significant financial need, to attend boot camp graduation events so the Marine is not alone.
Links and Resources by States
Find useful resources for Marine Corps family members and Veterans in your state!
2/25/2025
Our States Resources database includes useful information for Marine Corps family members and Veterans including VA Hospital locations, Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) locations, and military Veteran organizations.
Power of Attorney Before Boot Camp?
An article written by a Marine on staff.
2/25/2025
While your son or daughter is preparing to leave for recruit training it is important that they ensure there is a plan for how their bills will be paid while they're gone. Some services will allow your recruit to put payments on suspension while at recruit training, however they will have to check with those services beforehand.
Marine Corps Uniforms
at Marine Corps Bootcamp Recruit Training MCRD
2/25/2025
Marines are not known just for their battlefield prowess, but for their unparalleled standards of professionalism and uncompromising personal conduct and appearance.
Confirming Information During Boot Camp
Written by Marine David Ogden, Sgt. USMC '11-'16.
2/24/2025
MarineParents.com has been providing support and information for Marines and their loved ones for over 20 years. We take pride in ensuring the information we provide is accurate and relevant. We believe that boot camp is a time to start the process of letting go.
Links to Official Marine Corps Websites
Find links to Marine Corps websites and resources.
2/24/2025
This page consists of links to OFFICIAL Marine Corps websites as well as Marine Corps services, foundations, organizations, and associations that are endorsed or recognized by the USMC.
As I build this page of the website, and read about all of these organizations, I am truly humbled by the greatness of the United States Marine Corps. I am honored to be a small part of this elite and outstanding organization.Tracy Della Vecchia ~ Founder, MarineParents.com, Inc.
10-Day Leave After Boot Camp Graduation
Learn about the 10-day leave Marines earn after completing recruit training.
2/23/2025
The next phase of training after boot camp is SOI, or School of Infantry. Your new Marine is entitled to ten days leave after recruit training. Your new Marine may report to SOI early in order to save leave if desired.
First Phone Call at Boot Camp
Recruits are allowed to make a phone call to inform their loved ones they have arrived safely.
2/22/2025
All new Marine recruits make a phone call home after arriving at the Recruit Depot. The sole purpose of this first phone call is to notify the family that their recruit has arrived safely.
It's a short scripted phone call and typically you'll hear others talking in the background with Drill Instructors using their best "Drill Instructor" voice giving directions. Some families record the call on their phone. What was your experience?
Moving After the Corps
Moving and EAS: End of Active Service
2/22/2025
There are multiple ways that a Marine can choose to move him or herself and their family. A Marine may choose to do a Personally Procured Move (PPM), formerly a Do It Yourself (DITY) move, or he or she may choose to have the military move their personal family items for them.
Veterans United Home Loan Information
Thank you VUF and Employees of VU
2/22/2025
The following page highlights the information for using a VA Home Loan through Veterans United, as well as the generosity of their employees through Veterans United Foundation.
The Veterans United Foundation (VUF) has been extremely generous to the Marine Parents organization. In 2023, VUF will be providing a $7500 grant to Marine Parents. From 2014 through 2021, Veterans United in Columbia, MO, awarded us a $10,000 grant to help fund our outreach programs. In 2022, they increased the award to $25,000. If you're a veteran and in the market for a house, we highly recommend using Veterans United Home Loans. For more information, visit www.veteransunited.com.
MCMAP: Marine Corps Martial Arts
a combat-oriented martial arts program created by the Marine Corps
2/21/2025
MCMAP training teaches Marines the skills required in unarmed combat, weapons of opportunity, rifle and bayonet tactics, and edged weapon techniques. It focuses on hand-to-hand combat, the combat mindset, combat conditioning, and close-quarters fighting. Mental, character, and physical aspects are three disciplines emphasized in the martial arts program.
Recruiter Assistance After Boot Camp Graduation
PRASP: Permissive Recruiter Assistance Support Program
2/21/2025
While on leave after graduation from boot camp, new Marines may be selected by the USMC for participation in the Permissive Recruiter Assistance Support Program (PRASP). Click to read more on our website.
Website Map for Families of Officers
Use this as a guide to navigate the officers section
2/21/2025
For family members of officers needing help navigating our website, use this map of officer's pages on MarineParents.com: a Place to Connect & Share®.
I want to thank MarineParents.com so much!! You have calmed many fears and worries that I have had. Thank you for your dedication, time, and love!! Brigitte, Marine Mom, 2017
Casualty Notification Procedures During Deployments
The casualty notification procedures change depending on whether the Marine is deceased, or if they are wounded/injured/ill.
2/20/2025
In the case of death or serious injury, the Primary Next of Kin (PNOK) will be notified, by a uniformed service member, within 24 hours of the accident. These service members are called Casualty Assistance Calls Officers (CACO). Notification will only be made between the hours of 0500 and 0000 (5am-midnight). The service member will be wearing his Service Alpha Uniform.
Reserve Options
Learn the different options young men and women have to serve in the Marine Corps Reserve.
2/20/2025
For the most part, when civilians think of a reservist they think of someone who reports to their unit one weekend a month and for two weeks in the summer. There are actually a few different options that provide young men and women the opportunity to serve their country.
Video Marine Corps
Marine Corps Force Fitness Program
2/20/2025
U.S Marine Staff Sergeant Mitchell Brown talks about how he feels the force fitness program benefits the Marine Corps at Marine Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California, August 08, 2017. Force Fitness is a new program within the Marine Corps that teaches unit leaders new physical training techniques. Music Provided by Free Music Archive from Podington Bear (Video by Lance Cpl. Jennessa Davey)
OPSEC: Operations Security
An Overview for Parents and Family Members of Marines
2/18/2025
OPSEC is keeping potential adversaries from discovering critical Department of Defense information. As the name suggests, it protects U.S. operations — planned, in progress, and those completed. Learn what that means to you as the parent or family member of a Marine.
Marine Parents Donation
Your Gift Supports Families Through Deployment
2/18/2025
We need your help to continue our services. Help ensure our online services and support are here for recruit and Marine family members this year. You can make a one-time or monthly donation.
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.
Core Values: Honor, Courage, Commitment
It's what Marines learn from day one as a recruit.
2/18/2025
To understand how to do what is right, recruits and Marines are taught about ethics and the core values of the Marine Corps. The Corps' core values are Honor, Courage, and Commitment. These values make up the bedrock of a Marine's character. During recruit training, recruits are taught these core values and numerous others related to them, such as integrity, discipline, teamwork, duty, and "esprit de corps."
Support the Organization that Supports Marines
Your Donation Makes a Difference
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.
