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.

United We Stand: We Need Your Help

Please support the organization that supports you

7/20/2025

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.


Matrix Terminology Explained

There's a lot to learn! Here's a place to start!

7/20/2025

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!


Video Marine Corps

MCMAP to Overcome Obstacles

7/20/2025

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.


What's After Boot Camp Facebook Groups

Official Marine Parents Groups

7/19/2025

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.


Knowedge is Power!

What is MOS Schooling?

7/19/2025

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.


Beginning the Transformation to Marine

You Tube Channel Marines Published on April 7, 2011

7/19/2025

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.


Battle of Soissons

July 18, 1918, in Marine Corps history.

7/18/2025

On July 18, 1918, the 4th Marine Brigade began an attack near Soissons, France. The attack was part of a World War I three-division counterattack against German forces. The Marines sustained 1,972 casualties in the first two days of the battle.


Photos of Your Recruit

Where can I see photos of my recruit in training?

7/18/2025

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.


Marine Corps Social Networking

Social Media Guidance for Unofficial Posts

7/18/2025

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.


Preparing for Boot Camp Graduation

Helpful tips to prepare for your Marine's graduation from boot camp.

7/17/2025

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.


History of the Yellow Ribbon for Military

A Living Tradition Passed on for Decades

7/17/2025

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.


Páginas de Marine Parents en Español

Pages of Marine Parents in Spanish

7/17/2025

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.


Marine Parents Donation

Your Gift Supports Families Through the Corps

7/16/2025

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.


Marine Corps Promotions

Every good Marine wants to know how they can get promoted.

7/16/2025

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.


During Phase 2: Initial Drill Evaluation

Learn the importance of DRILL for the Corps

7/16/2025

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.


Congratulations to Yaritza Sierra Padilla, our newest Volunteer!

Yaritza completed 40+ hours of training and mentoring!

7/15/2025

CONGRATULATIONS to Yaritza Sierra Padilla, 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®!


Videos to Share at Marine Parents

Here are some Marine Corps videos you can share with friends and family!

7/15/2025

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.


Marine Corps Ranks

Learn about ranks using terminology civilians can understand.

7/15/2025

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.


When to Stop Sending Letters During Boot Camp

Every situation is a little different. Please read.

7/15/2025

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.


Check the Weather

How does the weather impact Recruit Training?

7/14/2025

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.


Our Facebook Groups by Family Affiliation

For Parents, Moms, and Dads

7/14/2025

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.


USS Iwo Jima Decommissioned

July 14, 1993, in Marine Corps history.

7/14/2025

On July 14, 1993, the USS Iwo Jima was decommissioned after over 30 years of service in a ceremony at Norfolk Naval Base, Virginia. The ship, named for the World War II battle in which three Marine divisions defeated 20,000 Japanese troops, was commissioned on August 26, 1961, and it was the first ship specifically designed as an amphibious assault ship from the keel up.


The National Museum of the Marine Corps Virtual Experience

Explore the sights and sounds of the museum on your computer

7/13/2025

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.


Interference During Recruit Training

Our Philosophy, and Why You Should Read This

7/13/2025

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.


Stages of Your Marine's Career

We are here for you at every stage!

7/13/2025

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.


Western Inn San Diego Hotel

For Boot Camp Graduations

7/12/2025

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.


History of 8th & I

Learn about Marine Barracks Washington, also known as 8th & I.

7/12/2025

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.


Haircuts & Hygiene

Part of the Reason Marines Look So Good in Uniform

7/12/2025

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.


Travel Plans for Graduation

Marine Corps Recruit Depot: PI & SD

7/11/2025

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?


Marine Corps Acronyms & Abbreviations

Here is a starting point for recruit families to learn the thousands of acronyms for the Marine Corps.

7/11/2025

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.


An Act for Establishing and Organizing a Marine Corps

July 11, 1798, in Marine Corps history.

7/11/2025

On July 11, 1798, second President of the United States, John Adams, approved "An Act for Establishing and Organizing a Marine Corps", and it became law. The following day, President Adams appointed William Ward Burrows the Major Commandant of the new Corps. In August, Major Burrows opened his headquarters in Philadelphia, which, at the time, was still the capital of our young nation.


Marine Corps Video

An Inside Look at Mascot Cpl Chesty XII

7/10/2025

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.


When Will I Know My Recruit's Platoon Number?

An Article from our Founder, Tracy Della Vecchia

7/10/2025

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.


The Marine Corps Flag

Learn the history of the Marine Corps Flag.

7/10/2025

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.


What’s next in Marine Corps innovation?

A video from MilTech on Defense News

7/9/2025

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.


PERSEC vs OPSEC

Do you know the differences between PERSEC and OPSEC?

7/9/2025

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.


Citizenship in the Marine Corps

Learn how a Marine can obtain citizenship while in the Marine Corps.

7/9/2025

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.


Semper Gumby

Semper Gumby in the Marine Corps means Always Flexible.

7/8/2025

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.


Marine Corps Motto & Slogans

The long history of the Marine Corps contains many mottos & slogans that are still used today.

7/8/2025

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.


The Recruit Parents Website

Navigating Boot Camp for 20 Years

7/8/2025

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!

—Jill from Iowa, Marine Mom, 2007


The Chain of Command

Knowing, understanding, and following the chain of command

7/7/2025

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.


After the Marine Corps

Reintegration to the Civilian World

7/7/2025

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.


MPTA Helps Marine Mom, Amy, Attend Graduation

Thank you, Marine Parents Travel Assistance!

7/6/2025

On Friday, June 27, 2025, Marine Parents Travel Assistance sent Amy, Mother of a recruit, to Parris Island for the recruit's graduation from Echo Company to become a Marine.

I can't thank MPTA enough for providing me with travel assistance to my son's Marine Bootcamp Graduation on June 27, 2025, from Echo Co. 2nd Battalion. Plt. 2038. It was a true blessing to see my son stand before me as a United States Marine. Experiencing all that both Family Day and Graduation Day had to offer was truly a Godsend. The long drive home (10+ hours) afforded me the opportunity to catch up with my son, hearing about his amazing experiences as I held his arm and told him how much I missed him. Even watching him sleep as he began his 10-day leave was a treasured moment. The memories of those days are invaluable, and it's all due to the generosity of MPTA. Thank you again for making this possible. Amy, New Marine Mom


Marine Video: Black Friday

YouTube Channel Official Marines Video

7/6/2025

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.


The History of the Battlefield Cross

Learn the history and purchase the lapel pin for Memorial Day

7/6/2025

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.


Drill Instructor Creed

of the United States Marine Corps

7/5/2025

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.


Join our team of Volunteers at MarineParents

Did you know our volunteers work from home? You can, too!

7/5/2025

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.


The Commandant's Reading List

What is it and why is it important?

7/5/2025

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.


Marine Parents Donations

Your Gift Supports Families Through Bootcamp

7/4/2025

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.


Video Marine Corps

Following the Eagle, Globe, and Anchor: The Legacy

7/3/2025

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.


Etiquette in the Corps

The Marine Corps is full of traditions and customs, and that comes with many types of military etiquette.

7/2/2025

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.


MUSIC VIDEO

Trace Adkins Singing Semper Fi

7/2/2025

This is an awesome song and an awesome singer. Worth watching!


Health Insurance in the Marine Corps

Learn about the health insurance Marines are offered in the Corps.

7/2/2025

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.


Combat Marksmanship

SOI: Marines will undergo combat marksmanship training

7/1/2025

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.


Knowledge is Power!

Visit Marine Parents to Learn about the Corps

7/1/2025

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!


The Matrix and Recruit Parent Articles

The Perfect Starting Point for Parents of Poolees & Recruits

7/1/2025

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.


The Eagle, Globe, and Anchor (EGA)

Learn more about the origins of the Eagle, Globe, and Anchor.

6/30/2025

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.


What Comes After the Corps?

Is Your Marine in EAS Mode? What is that?

6/30/2025

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


Support for Recruit Parents

How we help support you in this journey.

6/30/2025

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.


Knowledge is Power!

Learn more at Recruit Parents

6/29/2025

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 Marine Parents Website

22 Years of Information in Civilian Terms

6/29/2025

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

6/29/2025

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 United States Military Code of Conduct

Learn about the U.S. Military Code of Conduct at Marine Parents

6/28/2025

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.


Boot Camp Survival Tips for Parents

If you read nothing else, read this article.

6/28/2025

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.


3 Reasons to Shop at the EGA Shop

Official Marine Corps Licenses, Nonprofit, Great Products!

6/27/2025

  1. We are an official trademark licensee of the United States Marine Corps. Royalty fees support Marine Corps morale programs on posts around the world.
  2. As a nonprofit corporation, 100% of the proceeds support our outreach programs.
  3. We have great products and designs for every member of your family!


The Recruiters

Are They Your Resource for Questions?

6/27/2025

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.


MPTA Helps Marine Mom, Joi Marie, Attend Graduation

Thank you, Marine Parents Travel Assistance!

6/26/2025

On Friday, June 13, 2025, Marine Parents Travel Assistance sent Joi Marie, Mother of a recruit, to Parris Island for the recruit's graduation from November Company to become a Marine.

Attending Family Day and my daughter’s graduation as she transitioned from recruit to Marine was an unforgettable experience. It was incredible to see her hard work and determination culminate in such a proud and honorable achievement. Watching her complete the journey from recruit to United States Marine filled me with immense pride and admiration. The support I received to attend this momentous event meant the world to me and my family. It allowed me to be present for a milestone that not only celebrated her resilience but also the values and discipline she has embraced. Witnessing the ceremony reinforced the sacrifices and commitments she made to serve our country. I am forever grateful for the opportunity to be part of this unforgettable moment in her life. Joi Marie, New Marine Mom


Structure of the Marine Corps

Learn More About the Corps in Civilian Terms

6/26/2025

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.


Professional Photos and Videos

Taken of Recruits During Boot Camp

6/25/2025

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.


Weather Emergencies & Boot Camp

Natural Disasters During Recruit Training

6/10/2025

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.


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