Thursday, July 30, 2015

T-15 (July 30)

T-15 (July 30)

The Matrix says today is Marine Corps Mission and Organization day.  Sounds like a classroom setting to me.  I'm sure they're still drilling and probably getting ready for the SDI Inspection that happens tomorrow.  Initial Drill is on Saturday.  Boots and rifles likely are getting polished, and a woman from one of the support groups says the recruits are getting haircut #3 today.  Yep...they get buzzed every couple of weeks.

We received a letter from Jeremiah today.  He writes on Sundays since that day gives him the most time, and even that isn't much.  In the letter he says there will be a video out with his platoon on it.  He's ordered a copy already that will be ready when he graduates.  Actually, he says he's ordered "a boatload of photograph items."  Hopefully he hasn't blown his whole paycheck!

Jeremiah says that he has lots of mental pressure from the DIs and himself since he wants to do well.  He's says he's praying so that he and his platoon do well and trying to ease that pressure.  His confidence is "growing short" but quitting is not an option.  Jeremiah still wants to be a Marine.  In fact, he writes, "I will continue even if I do sometimes think I can't go on..."

His sense of humor is still appears intact in his letter.  He talks about being changed, but I suspect it's that he's matured more than anything.  He'll be stronger and louder (they do lots of shouting down there), but I suspect his personality will be the same.  We can't go through life without change, but from what I see in the letters I've received, all Jeremiah's changes thus far are positive ones.  He's learning that he CAN do hard things.

Wednesday, July 29, 2015

T-14 (July 29)

T-14 (July 29)



24 days into training.  65 days until graduation.

Today the matrix shows the recruits doing "Combat Conditioning Exercise."  According to a group I'm following, they will also be working on MCMAP (Marine Corps Martial Arts Program).  MCMAP was talked about in the article I posted yesterday where they interviewed people from Charlie Company.

According to a father that received a letter from his recruit, Platoon 1054 is doing well and looking forward to blousing their uniforms above their boots and undoing the top button on their uniform.  Supposedly the recruits are getting plenty of apples, which should thrill Jeremiah.  He LOVES apples...and there is no sarcasm there.  He really does like apples.  :-)

Found a video that shows the drills that Jeremiah does virtually daily.  This Saturday should be a "competition" of sorts between the platoon to see which does the drill the best.  I think they'll do this repeatedly to earn an award at graduation.

Marine Corps Recruit Training Drill

Next week is Swim Week and the end of Phase 1 of training.  August 8th they should be moving over to WFTBN (Weapons and Field Training Battalion) Camp Pendleton for three weeks.


Tuesday, July 28, 2015

MCMAP foundation starts early in recruit training Marine Corps Recruit Depot, San Diego News Article Display

This is an article put out on the MCRDSD website using Jeremiah's company - Charlie Company.  I don't see him in any of the pictures, but it's neat that his company has recruits interviewed for the article.

MCMAP foundation starts early in recruit training Marine Corps Recruit Depot, San Diego News Article Display

T-13 (July 28)

T-13 (July 28)

"Log Drills" are on the Matrix today.  Hope asked me what they were and I hadn't a clue.  So I finally looked it up on the MCRDSD website and found an article that says a team of recruits carry a log approximately 250 pounds.  That will definitely teach recruits how to work as a team.  That's a heavy log!

Marine Corps History from 1941-1945 will be studied this week too.  World War II.  Jeremiah's dad's favorite war to study and read about.  They'll be learning about Saipan, Tarawa, Peleiu, Iwo Jima, Okinawa and other battles that are significant in Marine Corps history.

I learned more about the Confidence Courses too.  Not sure if they did those today since they were on yesterday's matrix, but it appears that there are two different Confidence courses.

Confidence Course I tests the recruits' strength and balance including low obstacles like an arm stretcher, parallel bars, over and under.  Confidence Course II tests their determination and includes high obstacles like the skyscraper, A-frame, and Slide for Life.

Recruits have been writing home saying they do lots of drill and PT.  Sounds like they are tired, but getting stronger.

Many recruits are requesting protein bars, and many have been sent.  A mom that has gone through this before asked her son how these protein bars get distributed and was told that the DIs issue them as a reward.  Sometimes they only get 2-3 per week and footlockers with hundreds of protein bars are left at the end of boot camp.  I hope Jeremiah was able to eat some of what I sent him.  I've sent over a dozen to him already but now hesitate to send any more.  I probably will though.  He still has about 65 days left until graduation.



T-12 (July 27)

T-12 (July 27)

All I could find out about today was that the Confidence Course I was on the Matrix.  I believe I posted in an earlier entry that it has 11 obstacles that get progressively harder, but is designed to give the recruits confidence once they are through it.

I have found a video about the training in week three.  All I can say is Jeremiah will never have trouble getting out of bed now!  You should watch this.  WOW!

Recruit Training - Week 3

A letter came to the house today.  It was from an Elder Bruce Carlson, General, USAF (retired).  He's now a member of the Second Quorum of the Seventies in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  He wrote to let Joe and me know that Jeremiah has been attending church services down at MCRD San Diego.  The chaplain down there feels that Jeremiah brings a good spirit to the meetings.  They reassured us that they will help him grow in his faith and testimony of the church.

Jeremiah being a Marine is important to Joe and me, and to Jeremiah.  However, as parents, Joe and I definitely feel that Jeremiah's spiritual growth is just as important.  We want him to have a strong testimony of his Heavenly Father and the mission that He has in store for Jeremiah.  When I went with Jeremiah to the recruiter's office a year ago, I knew that this was a calling from God for Jeremiah.  He's fulfilling it, and that pleases Joe and me.  And while I know that this process is hard, I'm grateful that Jeremiah is remembering promises he made to Heavenly Father over the past 18 years and is honoring those covenants that he has made.

Semper Fidelis means "always faithful" or "always loyal."  Before he left, I asked Jeremiah what he was supposed to be faithful to.  In the discussion that ensued, I told him to first be faithful to God, then to his family, country and corps.  God should always come first, and I believe that Jeremiah is remembering that.

Many of the recruits are writing home that they are becoming closer to God.  I pray that Jeremiah feels the same way.  I do know, through reading his letters, that the importance of family has really struck home with him.  The fact that he quoted scripture in his latest letter shows that he's searching the scriptures for answers, and every answer he will need to survive boot camp is in there.  We're so pleased with Jeremiah.

Sunday, July 26, 2015

S-2 (July 26)

S-2 (July 26)

The second week of training is done.  According to a friend of ours that is a Marine, Jeremiah has one more week of Hell, then it's all endurance.  I hope he's right!

Next week Jeremiah should be doing the Confidence Course, SDI Inspection, and Initial Drill.

The Confidence Course has eleven obstacles designed to be progressively difficult.  It's supposed to be a good morale builder since many recruits can negotiate the obstacles with ease after a little practice.

The SDI Inspection is when the Senior Drill Instructor (SDI) inspects the recruits' uniforms and rifles and tests them on Marine Corps knowledge they have been studying.

Initial Drill tests each platoon's ability to listen to the drill instructors' orders at this point in time.  Obviously they'll get better the longer they are in training.  It shows their current degree of discipline.

I'm not sure if all these activities this next week are a competition, but I know the Initial Drill is.  They're competing for the title of Honor Platoon that will be awarded at graduation.

Supposedly sometime after the SDI Inspection, Jeremiah will likely see the "Hurricane in the Barracks" where the DIs go through and upend bunks, toss items, empty footlockers into a big pile, etc.  Luckily I did what I was advised to do and sent Jeremiah a gallon sized ziplock bag to keep his letters and pictures in.  Now I'm getting advice not to warn him about these, but it's too late.  I already sent a letter that explained the ziplock baggie.  I just pray he doesn't end up with two different sized boots like his cousin, Seth, did when he was in boot camp.

Three weeks down...ten to go.

T-11 (July 25)

T-11 (July 25)

According to the Matrix, today Jeremiah had a 2.5 mile S&E course.  I have NO idea what else he did.  Tomorrow is Sunday, so hopefully he'll get some rest.  Meanwhile, we sent out letters for him along with a few more power bars.  He should have started receiving mail by now.  Our first letter went out 8 days ago...

I saw a story posted tonight.  It was posted by Barb Jackson who is an admin for a support group I'm a part of.

Not so smart Recruits:
As a group of Recruits stood in formation, the Drill Instructor said, "All right! All you idiots fall out."
As the rest of the squad ran away, one Recruit remained at attention. The Drill Instructor walked over until he was eye-to-eye with him, and then raised a single eyebrow.
The Recruit smiled and said, "Sure was a lot of 'em, huh, sir?"
Originally posted by MarineMaker, 2004

Friday, July 24, 2015

T-10 (July 24)

T-10 (July 24)

Today is Pioneer Day for Utahns and those of us that are members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (aka Mormons).  While the scouts in the area put out American flags, Jeremiah probably hopes we are wearing RED since the Marines do that to Remember Everyone Deployed.

I think today was another haircut day.  I'm not sure though.  He's been gone three weeks now, so maybe the hair cut will wait another week.  With as fast as Jeremiah's hair grows...they may have to shave his head weekly!


The Matrix shows "Lower Body Strikes" scheduled for today.  I joked with the other boys that Jeremiah must be learning how to tackle like in football.  Frankly, I have no idea what "lower body strikes" means.


According to a group I'm in on Facebook, classroom sessions will include Small Unit Leadership, the Law of Land Warfare, and Equal Opportunity.  From what I gather, in Phase 1 of boot camp, recruits may be chosen to be Squad Leaders, PLT Guides, or other positions then "fired" a few days later as DIs try to find out who fits the position the best.  Hopefully Jeremiah doesn't get "fired" as a prayer leader since I think that is an ideal position for him.  He's faithful and loves God more than anything.  He was called to be a Marine and so God will use him as He sees fit.  Hopefully the DIs are listening to where God wants Jeremiah to be.

A mother from a support group posted that her son had written a letter on July 17th.  As of that day, he hadn't received any letters from home.  Not unexpected really since the first letters the recruits sent out were on July 13th.  Parents started receiving them on the 15th (mine came on the 16th) and that was the first time we even had their addresses to mail things.  Many of the recruits are requesting protein bars, so yesterday I got a group together and we sent about 11 boxes of protein bars to Jeremiah's platoon.  Now other groups are doing the same.  The parents of Jeremiah's fellow recruits are amazing and so very supportive of the recruits and other parents.  Some of them are even starting to write letters for recruits that haven't received any letters.  Here we are, three weeks into training, and some parents haven't even received the form letter that most parents received last week.  Not sure if I have time or would even know what to say, but I may try to do the same thing.  Many of the parents have posted the following image on the internet.  I'll do so here, especially since it touches my heart.  I've definitely prayed for these same things even if I didn't put it so poetically.




Thursday, July 23, 2015

T-9 (July 23)

T-9 (July 23)

I received a letter from Jeremiah today.  He has been made a prayer leader in his platoon!  How exciting for him.  He's following in his father's footsteps since Joe was the "religious petty officer" in Navy boot camp many years ago.  Jeremiah says he wants to do his best for his company and his platoon.  He says his time at boot camp is changing him, and he's louder and tougher and his memory is better.  Jeremiah says he misses his family and that the family is his motivation to do his best so he can return to us as soon as possible. My favorite parts of the letter, though, are the beginning and ending.  The beginning because he starts off by telling us he's a prayer leader.  The end because he quotes a scripture: Neverthelss, the Lord God showeth us our weakness that we may know that it is by his grace, and his great condescensions unto the children of men, that we have power to do these things. - Jacob 4:7  He's turning to the Lord during his trials at boot camp.  His father and I are so very pleased.

He definitely is having struggles.  The letter shows that he really misses being home, but he chose to be a warrior so is doing his best.  What a neat young man!  I can't wait to see him in his Marine uniform!

Jeremiah's well on his way.  Only about 70 days to graduation.  But today he had to get through the obstacle course and probably IT otherwise known as InCENTIVE Training of inTENSIVE training according to Lisa Tingle who is part of a support group for parents of recruits that is on Facebook.  She quotes somebody named LazyK-Chen, "Either way it is not something a recruit looks forward to, but no recruit can become a Marine without some IT.  The DIs at MCRD use IT, extreme exercise to get recruits to understand that every command has to be answered without fail, without question.  Out in the field of battle a Marine will need to be able to follow every order in the same regard."

IT is performed with two DIs present.  A recruit or recruits will be taken out to the sand pit where they receive directions by the DIs to perform a series of exercises (push up, drops, pull ups, etc.) in quick succession.  An IT can be given to an individual recruit or to a platoon for failure to follow a DI's directive, for performing poorly during drill, etc.  Since some recruits are writing home saying life sucks, others blaming other recruits in their platoon for punishments the whole platoon is getting, and some wanting to go home, I suspect this type of training has been happening for a while now.

A while back, a Marine mentioned to the support group that there was an ice cream machine in the chow hall, but heaven help any recruit that tried to get some.  Apparently it's a test and the recruits are to bypass the ice cream until the DIs tell them they can have some and not before.  Supposedly platoons are never 'given' ice cream.  I guess if they get it, it's EARNED.

These exercises are definitely given to train recruits to follow each and every order without fail.  Makes sense because Marines depend on each other and another Marine's life could depend on another following an order.  It must be successful since the Marines are some of the best trained warriors in the world.  It's a comfort to know, though, that the DIs take an oath to keep the recruits safe.  I'm sure all the recruits are pushed to their limits, and sometimes what feels like beyond their limits, but they'll probably all feel it's worth it when they complete "The Crucible" in week 11 and EARN the title MARINE.

Wednesday, July 22, 2015

T-8 (July 22)

T-8 (July 22)

Although some parents have posted that their recruit has already had their wisdom teeth extracted, one source says that actual dental work usually takes place during training weeks 5-8. It will be interesting to find out when Jeremiah's wisdom teeth are extracted.

Today Bayonet Techniques/Pugil Sticks I is on the Matrix. Classroom sessions will cover Marine Corps history between 1898 and 1940 (Spanish-American War to WWII). According to Lisa Tingle, who is the Charlie Company Leader on the Facebook Group - Charlie Co MCRD San Diego (Official MarineParents.com Group), "This is particularly interesting as it includes the Battle at Belleau Wood. This battlefield lies between Paris and Reims and is where the term "Devil Dog" was coined. As the American overall commander, U.S. Army General “Black Jack” Pershing, put it "The deadliest weapon in the world is a Marine and his rifle!" To learn more about the Battle of Belleau Wood:
http://www.marines.com/history-heritage/timeline"

She also says they will be learning the Code of Conduct, the Marine mission and organization, honor and leadership. 

It sounds like each day there is a mixture of physical and classroom activity.  It gives me peace of mind to know the DIs are taking care of the recruits.  In another Facebook group, parents are posting bits and pieces of letters from their recruits.  I've heard the recruits get up at 4:00 am and are done with training by 5:00 pm, in bed by 8:00 pm.  For my night owl, that's a definite change of pace!  Some of the recruits are loving boot camp, but most seem to find it hard. Others say life sucks.  I'm sure they'll all feel the rewards of their efforts by the time they are done.  

On the Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego Facebook page, I found something interesting today. It happened two days after Jeremiah arrived. He didn't write about it, so he probably didn't even know this happened. Here's the post from the site:


Lester Tenney Visit - 
Bataan Death March Survivor

Lester Tenney, World War II veteran and Bataan Death March survivor, was invited to Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego to tour the installation and see how today's Marines are made, July 8. Tenney served with the National Guard in the Philippines during World War II and was captured at Bataan by the Japanese. He is one of the last remaining survivors of the Bataan Death March, where 60,000 to 80,000 Filipino and American prisoners of war marched over 60 miles to a prison camp. The arduous journey was made with little to no food or water, extremely hot weather and the constant threat of death if one stopped moving. Roughly 5,000 to 10,000 died while trying to make the trip. Over the years, thousands more of the death march survivors died at the prison camp due to starvation or disease.


Lester Tenney, World War II veteran and Bataan Death March survivor, inspects the armory of the Command Museum at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, July 8.
Lester Tenney, World War II veteran and Bataan Death March survivor, examines the ribbon and medal displays in the Command Museum at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, July 8.


Lester Tenney, World War II veteran and Bataan Death March survivor, looks at the World War II Prisoner of War display in the Command Museum at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, July 8. 
Lester Tenney, World War II veteran and Bataan Death March survivor, examines the Marine Corps’ historical service weapons at the Command Museum at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, July 8. 
Lester Tenney (right), World War II veteran and Bataan Death March survivor, explains the intolerable conditions of his treatment as a Japanese prisoner of war to Mike Lee, executive director, Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego Museum Foundation, at the Command Museum at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, July 8.
Lester Tenney, World War II veteran and Bataan Death March survivor, watches recruits march at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, July 8. 
Lester Tenney, World War II veteran and Bataan Death March survivor, is brought to the infamous yellow footprints at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, July 8. 
Lester Tenney, World War II veteran and Bataan Death March survivor, inspects the drill instructor monument at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, July 8.
Marines of Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego have lunch with Lester Tenney (left), World War II veteran and Bataan Death March survivor, at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, July 8.
Lester Tenney (left), World War II veteran and Bataan Death March survivor, and his wife Betty Tenney (right) talk to Marines of Marines Corps Recruit Depot San Diego during a lunch session at the depot, July 8. The Marines had the opportunity to hear Tenney’s story and ask his questions about his experience as a Japanese prisoner of war during World War II. 
arines and Museum Foundation members of the depot take a group shot with Lester Tenney (center right), World War II veteran and Bataan Death March survivor, and his wife Betty Tenney (center left) at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, July 8.

T-7 (July 21)

T-7 (July 21)


From what I understand, nearly everyday the recruits start with PT and run through BASES. According to a group that I joined, BASES stands for Balance, Agility, Speed, Explosive Strength.  Supposedly there are about 10 stations in the course that include various exercises designed to develop and extend the recruits' motor skills.

They also have drill everyday.  From what I've gathered, there's a competition (Initial Drill Competition) that will take place on T-17.  My calculations put this on August 1st.  Hoping Platoon 1054 will be ready!

Monday, July 20, 2015

T-6 (July 20)

T-6 (July 20)

It's the start of the second week of training for Jeremiah. He gets to set up a bank account this week, so he'll finally realize that he's getting paid to do this.  They didn't pay him as a Poolee to get ready for boot camp. I bet he's glad that he put the time in, though.

According to a couple different sources, this week they will be introduced to Bayonet Assault Course and "Pugil Sticks." The Pugil Sticks simulate a rifle and bayonet in close-quarters combat techniques.  I don't imagine they are very soft after seeing some videos about this course.  I kind of hope that some of this will remind Jeremiah of doing stuff with his brothers and fellow boy scouts.  Maybe this will be more fun for him than running and running and sprinting and marching...

Today the Matrix has "sprints" down for an activity, so he will still have to run. Another source says that today specifically has things like Battlefield First Aid and Customs and Courtesies of the Marine Corps (basically practice saluting with and without a rifle) as well as interior guard instruction.  I had no idea what an "interior guard" does, so I looked it up.  According to a student handout that I found online there are different types of guards. Their types and duties are as follows:

Types/Purpose of Guard Types of Guard Depending on their mission, guard forces are organized into many different forms. In the Marine Corps, the three main types of guards are: • Exterior guard: Established in combat or other hostile zones. • Ship’s detachment: Maintained for three primary purposes  Guarding nuclear weapons.  To provide security vessels from internal and external threats.  Ceremonial duties. • Interior guard: A commander details this guard to preserve order, protect property, and enforce regulations within the jurisdiction of the command. Purpose of Interior Guard The establishment of an interior guard is a command decision authorized to the commanding officer of a ship, regiment/group or higher, and separate/detached units. All other commanders may establish special guards when necessary. Three primary purposes for an interior guard are to: • Preserve order. • Protect property. • Enforce regulations.

In some posts by parents, recruits are starting to have their wisdom teeth extracted. Jeremiah went into boot camp with all four, so he will likely have them out soon if they haven't been removed already.  After the extraction, I believe he gets bed rest for the rest of the day, possibly even 48 hours, then light duty for another day before returning to a full day's training.  I guess we'll find out soon what happened.

I've been warned that I could get a letter saying he's ill this week. I haven't received such a letter, but since they get a bunch of vaccinations and recruits are coming from all over, it wouldn't surprise me.  Posts have been made on Facebook about a recruit being diagnosed with cellulitis the first week, so his graduation has already been postponed.  Another mother posted that her son had been on bed rest for a swollen ankle, and a girlfriend posted that her recruit is ill but doesn't want to go to the medical building.  All these young men just want to graduate and become Marines.  I just hope that the bronchitis he had in May doesn't come back.  He'd hate to have his graduation delayed.

73 days to graduation!




S-1 (July 19)

S-1 (July 19)

July 19th is a Sunday, so Jeremiah and other recruits had the opportunity to attend church services. Supposedly this is the day they relax...a little. Of course they will have to get their gear in order. My understanding is they do laundry (by hand) and write letters. According to a post, they had scheduled classroom sessions on Integrity, Theft and Core Beliefs.

At home it was Joe's birthday. We actually celebrated on Saturday since Heather and her husband were up from Utah, but on his birthday, he showed his love and support for Jeremiah by wearing his new t-shirt that shows the Battalion and Company that Jeremiah is in.





T-5 (July 18)

T-5 (July 18)

Saturday, July 18th, the recruits were scheduled for a 2 mile ability run/bases according to the Matrix. Of course, we have to still get more detailed information from other sources.  According to other sources, they start early in the morning for the ability run. Since running is a way of life for Marines, I bet Jeremiah doesn't ever tell me again "I'm not a runner" like he did about a year or two ago.

It looks like the recruits have book learning to do as well as the physical training they go through each day. Those are called CVGD (Core Values Guided Discussion) session. T-5 has Ethical Decision Making and UCMJ (Uniform Code of Military Justice) paired with NJP (Non-Judicial Punishment).

Much of the information I am getting regarding Jeremiah's Journey has been posted on Facebook by people that have Marines for children or are Marines themselves. They may be volunteers to help support the families of the recruits so give information as to what is going on with their sons or daughters. Since Jeremiah is at MCRD San Diego, all the recruits are men that live west of the Mississippi.

One such person (Lisa Tingle, whose posts I shared earlier in this blog) talks about the recruits starting to doubt their decision at this point and hitting "THE WALL." She talks about sending encouraging letters, and a bunch were sent today for Jeremiah. I'd been going to bundle them all into one larger envelope, but parents have been cautioned against doing anything to bring unwanted attention to their recruit...including sending anything other than a #10 white envelope...and don't you dare decorate it. So, we're crossing our fingers that Jeremiah's Drill Instructors (DIs) don't make a big deal about the fact that his little sister, Hope, who is five-years-old, painted him a picture using pink puff paint. Pink's her favorite color, so obviously Jeremiah must love pink too. ;-)

Jeremiah's letters were mailed on July 17th, so it will be interesting to see how long they take to get to him. However, we received two on July 18th that were postmarked July 15th, so the lag seems to be 3-4 days. Weekends will likely be longer.  He wrote one the second day of training to let me know that he accidentally called HIS cell phone rather than mine when he got to San Diego. So, we all got to listen to the voicemail that he'd left. He was speaking loudly (practically shouting into the phone) and his voice sounded like his throat was sore from shouting. The other letter wasn't dated but said he was "having it kind of hard." He said he could receive protein bars (a couple at a time) and he asked for addresses for the family and his priest quorum.  It was so good to see an actual letter! Joe went right out and bought a box of six protein bars.  I'm going to send all of them, so hopefully it isn't too many at once...

I found something online that gives information about one of Jeremiah's DIs. Gotta love the internet and the information it can provide. :-)

DI SPOTLIGHT
Approximately 550 Marines have the massive responsibility to shape more than 16,000 recruits who come to Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego annually into basically trained United States Marines. Drill instructors are entrusted with sustaining a more than 239-year legacy of transforming recruits into the next generation of Marines. Get to know one of the Corps finest.
Name: Sgt. Wyland I. Leopold
Charlie Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion
Joined the Marine Corps in January 2006
Became a DI in September 2014
Military Occupational Specialty: mortarman
Hometown: Wahiawa, Hawaii
"I joined the Marine Corps to travel, see the world and serve my country,” said Leopold. “I became a drill instructor because I love the Marine Corps and wanted to see the legacy carried on.”

T-4 (July 17)

T-4

According to the Matrix, today (July 17) is a day to learn military history.  Information obtained online says that the recruits "will be heading to the PT field for the 'circuit course' where they will participate in running 40 yard sprints."  As his mother, I kind of wonder if Jeremiah will change as drastically as Captain America did in the film after being put in that tube. Scrawny going in , buff coming out. That could easily be Jeremiah! He wasn't scrawny, but he definitely was thin. Here's hoping he doesn't lose too much weight.

The form letter arrived at home today. It was postmarked July 13th, so there's about a four day delay in the mail. At least it was received and the family learned the address to send letters to and that Jeremiah is in Platoon 1054 of the Charlie Company. We'd figured out the company earlier, but now we know which of the six platoons in the company he belongs to.

T-3 (July 16)

T-3 was another day for haircuts. Apparently all of the haircuts recruits receive during boot camp are the 'shave it all off' type. Bummer since our family thought that the shave it all off only happened once. Luckily Jeremiah is used to close haircuts. His hair grows fast enough that he probably had a little length when they shaved it off again. Kind of makes you wonder if recruits get sunburned heads!

On the Recruit Training Matrix (phase 1 is shown below) it also shows that Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC) is scheduled. The recruits learn how to aid another Marine on the battle field if there is an injury using their IFK (Individual First Aid Kit). Of course there will be marching and more marching.  :-)

It's unfortunate that on this day of Jeremiah's training, four Marines and a Navy recruiter were shot and killed in Chattanooga, TN. So sad for all the Marines and the recruits. Shock likely went through every military base and recruiting station in the USA. Immediate reaction was astonishment that our military members aren't allowed to carry weapons on base or their recruiting stations. The country is now up in arms about that fact and beginning to call for a change. It will be interesting to see what changes are made to the military that Jeremiah has joined.




Thursday, July 16, 2015

T-1 (July 14)


Well, I've managed to post things a bit out of order, but thought that I should put in what I've been reading about this journey that Jeremiah is on.  If I can get these back into chronological order, I will.  :-)


Charlie Co MCRD San Diego (Official MarineParents.com Group)
It is officially the beginning of boot camp today: Phase I Training! It is T-1 and the official start of training. It is also the day to start your countdown to T-70 ~ also known as Graduation Day!
The roller coast ride has descended down its first hill and it now continues on down the track. There will be moments where you'll hang in air for a split second before careening down an impossible slope, so make sure you're buckled in safely.
As it states in our guidelines, we're here to provide a safe and informational place to Connect & Share® for Marine Corps families. We'll be here along every moment of your journey.
So according to the Matrix, today your RCT's would have been spending some time in "classroom" sessions learning Values and Ethics of the Marine Corps, the UCMJ (Uniform Code of Military Justice), laws which govern the military and the basics of “interior” guard duty.
MCMAP, (Marine Corps Martial Arts Program), which is the hand-to-hand combat technique utilized. (My son's FAVORITE.) Each RCT will need to pass a MCMAP practical test on T-22 and be awarded their “Tan” belt as one of the requirements to graduate.
Here's a video of Bravo Company - Marine Corps Martial Arts Program Endurance Course ...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4nBqrlx7Ne0
Close Order Drill, or COD, is also on the docket. Basically, this is how they move as a group. It will become very important as they draw closer to the Initial Drill Competition on T-24.
Just a "heads up", this is the phase they call the "breaking phase" ~ where the DI's are finding LOTS to call them out on. They will be pushed hard and have a lot of IT, (Incentive Training). IT can be performed in the pit or on the quarterdeck. This may seem harsh but is an essential part of breaking them of their civilian past and pushing them to start building new, strong relationships with the other RCT's in their platoon.
For now, know that they are in a safe place and that the process is going as planned. Remember to lean on others when you need to.
As always, feel free to ask me any questions! If I don't know, I will find out for you.
Lisa Tingle
Charlie Company Leader

T-2 (July 15)


Today was T-2 on the Matrix.
The recruits went for a 1.5 mile formation run this morning. They were also learning customs and courtesies of the Marine Corps (rank structure, saluting, uniform types). If you are interested in learning them too, check out this page: http://www.marines.mil/Marines/Ranks.aspx
They will also start to learn some hand to hand combat techniques that are part of their MCMAP or Marine Corps Martial Arts Program training.
Form letters are coming supposedly.  If it's delayed his recruiter will be able to tell me his address after next week. Hopefully after that we will get some "real" letters.  :-)
There are 300-600 new recruits arriving at MCRD every week and 300-600 Marines leaving each week, add in recruits going to Camp Pendleton for Phase 2 and it is nothing short of a miracle that letters are received!! 

Marine Corps Martial Arts Punches - 7/15/2015

Marine Corps Martial Arts Punches - 7/15/2015


Recruits of Charlie Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, practice punching techniques during a Marine Corps Martial Arts Program class at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, July 15. The focus of MCMAP is the personal development of each Marine in a team framework using a standardized, trainable and sustainable close combat fighting system. Training is broken down into segments and on this day the company learned the fundamentals of the lead and rear hand punch as well as the necessary proper footwork. 

Though the recruits are learning the physical maneuvers of MCMAP, they are also given additional training on core values and morals.

Photos by Sgt. Walter D. Marino II

Staff Sgt. Brandon J. Curry, Marine Corps Martial Arts Instructor, demonstrates correct hand placement when striking during a MCMAP class at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, July 15. Recruits receive multiple MCMAP classes throughout recruit training and are given a MCMAP test on training day 50 to verify their knowledge of MCMAP fundamentals.
Staff Sgt. Brandon J. Curry, Marine Corps Martial Arts Instructor, demonstrates correct hand placement when striking during a Marine Corps Martial Arts Program class at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, July 15.
A recruit demonstrates the basic warrior stance from the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program during a MCMAP class at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, July 15. The basic warrior stance is the starting point of every MCMAP move and is instrumental for balance and power. Recruits were taught how to throw the lead and rear hand punch as well as the footwork and body position needed to execute the punches effectively.
Staff Sgt. Brandon J. Curry, Marine Corps Martial Arts Instructor, demonstrates the basic warrior stance during a MCMAP class at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, July 15. The basic warrior stance is the starting point of every MCMAP and is instrumental for balance and power.
Staff Sgt. Brandon J. Curry, Marine Corps Martial Arts Instructor, demonstrates correct feet and hand placement when in the basic warrior stance during a MCMAP class at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, July 15. 

There are five belt levels in Marine Corps Martial Arts from tan, gray, green, brown and black. Each belt builds on the skills developed under the previous belt and the Marine Corps values learned. Learning the basics of MCMAP is a graduation requirement for all recruits. Once Marines, these recruits will have the opportunity to build upon the basics learned in recruit training.





July 10 - "Pick Up Day"

F1 - July 10 - "Black Friday" or "Pick Up Day"

Ah...the day Jeremiah met his Drill Instructors or DIs. Also on the schedule is an initial strength test.

Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego added 8 new photos to the album: Company C Pick Up — withKatheryn Salcido and 12 others.
After a week of in-processing, recruits have "pick up" day, which is when they are introduced to their drill instructors. During this event, drill instructors recite the Drill Instructor Creed, a vow to train recruits professionally and to the best of their ability. Following the creed, recruits are given their first set of orders through an orchestrated series of chaotic commands. The intensity of the first day is designed to set the tone for the remaining 12 weeks of training.
Photos by Sgt. Walter D. Marino II


Drill instructors of Charlie Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, are introduced to their new recruits during pick up at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, July 10. After spending the first week of in-processing, recruits were marched to their new squad bay where their drill instructors introduced themselves, recited the Drill Instructor Creed and began to carry out the mission of transforming civilians into United States Marines. Pick up is the first encounter the recruits have with the drill instructors who are charged with the responsibility of transforming them to Marines.
Sgt. Samuel Tena, Charlie Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, orders a recruit to stop moving during pick up at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Calif., July 10. Recruits were introduced to the fast-paced rigors and intensity they will endure over the next 12 weeks.
Sgt. Samuel Tena, Charlie Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, orders a recruit to stop moving during pick up at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Calif., July 10.
Recruits of, Charlie Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, are ordered to move to quickly to the front of their squad bay during pick up at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Calif., July 10.
taff Sgt. David Guel, Charlie Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, orders a recruit to move quicker during pick up at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Calif., July 10.
Staff Sgt. Adrianne Devera, senior drill instructor, Charlie Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, explains what he expects from his recruits while they are in training during pick up at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Calif., July 10.
Staff Sgt. Adrianne Devera, senior drill instructor, Charlie Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, explains what he expects from his recruits while they are in training during pick up at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Calif., July 10.
Staff Sgt. Adrianne Devera, senior drill instructor, Charlie Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, explains what he expects from his recruits while they are in training during pick up at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Calif., July 10.