Announcements and What's New
If it's news or simply an announcement, you'll find it here. In the "Announcements" section of the website, you'll find our electronic newsletters, newsletter sign up, archive newsletters, press releases, news room, what's new on the websites, and MarineParents.com "in the news."
MPTA Helps Marine Mother, Amber, Attend Graduation
Thank you Marine Parents Travel Assistance!
Published on 10/3/2023
On Friday, September 22, 2023, Marine Parents Travel Assistance sent Amber, Mother of a recruit, to San Diego for the recruit's graduation from Lima Company to become a Marine.
Being able to see my son graduate made my heart happy and meant everything to me. Thank you MarineParents.com for helping me make it to my son's graduation. I have been to every event for my son and this is the most important one and I didn’t want to miss it. Nothing makes me happier than watching my son's dream come true and being there to witness it. I want to thank MarineParents for the assistance. I really appreciate each and every one of you and god bless you all. I want to say congratulations to Lima Co and all the parents. SEMPER FI! OOORAH! Amber, New Marine Mom
Support for Recruit Parents
How we help support you in this journey.
Published on 9/27/2023
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.
Marines Secure Peleliu
September 27, 1942, in Marine Corps history.
Published on 9/27/2023
On September 27, 1944, US Marines secured and raised the American flag over the island of Peleliu. Despite Marines securing the island, pockets of Japanese soldiers held out and continued to fight against American forces until April of 1947, nearly two years after the war ended.
MPTA Helps Marine Mother, Amymarie, Attend Graduation
Thank you Marine Parents Travel Assistance!
Published on 9/27/2023
On Friday, September 22, 2023, Marine Parents Travel Assistance sent Amymarie, Mother of a recruit, to Parris Island for the recruit's graduation from Alpha Company to become a Marine.
Thank you for your help. Without it, I wouldn't have been able to attend this monumental occasion with my son. I am very proud of him. Amymarie, New Marine Mom
Congratulations to Danielle Stueck, our newest Volunteer!
Danielle completed 40+ hours of training and mentoring!
Published on 9/26/2023
CONGRATULATIONS to Danielle Stueck 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®!
When Will I Know My Recruit's Platoon Number?
An Article from our Founder, Tracy Della Vecchia
Published on 9/25/2023
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.
MPTA Helps Marine Mother, Debbie, Attend Graduation
Thank you Marine Parents Travel Assistance!
Published on 9/25/2023
On Friday, September 15, 2023, Marine Parents Travel Assistance sent Debbie, Mother of a recruit, to San Diego for the recruit's graduation from Fox Company to become a Marine.
I’m humbled and grateful. My heart is still smiling. This was a blessing for my son and I. I can never thank you enough. After I ran to hug my son all I could think of was that I would have not been here if it wasn’t for assistance from the MarineParents Travel Assistance Program. I would have not been there to see my US Marine graduate! He made a tremendous change! We are grateful and can’t wait to see what his future brings. SEMPER FI! OOORAH! Debbie, New Marine Mom
Website Map for Families of Officers
Use this as a guide to navigate the officers section
Published on 9/25/2023
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
Congratulations to Yara Guttierez, our newest Volunteer!
Yara completed 40+ hours of training and mentoring!
Published on 9/24/2023
CONGRATULATIONS to Yara Gutierrez 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®! She'll be volunteering in our What's After Boot group with families who have a Marine at MCT West.
Marines Land in Colombia
September 24, 1873, in Marine Corps history.
Published on 9/24/2023
On September 24, 1873, 199 Marines and seamen from the USS Pensacola and the USS Benicia landed at the Bay of Panama in what is now Colombia, South America, to protect the railroad and American lives and property as local groups fought for control over the government of Panama.
Boot Camp Survival Tips for Parents
If you read nothing else, read this article.
Published on 9/24/2023
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.
Western Inn San Diego Hotel
For Boot Camp Graduations
Published on 9/23/2023
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.
The Recruiters
Are They Your Resource for Questions?
Published on 9/23/2023
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.
Meet and Greet in Person, Greensboro NC
a Place to Connect and Share (IN PERSON!)
Published on 9/23/2023
This event is hosted by two of our long-time volunteers, Susan Hughes and Carolyn Buckner Williams, and it is open to Marine family members in the Greensboro, North Carolina, area. It will be held on Saturday, October 14, 2023, from 11 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at A Special Blend coffee shop in Greensboro. Please join us for coffee, pastries, and conversation (about our Marines, of course)! We hope you can bring photos to share.
If you are interested in attending, please let us know by October 7th. Click the group link below to RSVP.
Note about our meeting space: *A Special Blend is a coffee shop in Greensboro that provides meaningful employment opportunities/skills for adults living with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities*
Protein Bars in Boot Camp
Written by a Marine who served USMC '08-'12
Published on 9/22/2023
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.
The Eagle, Globe, and Anchor (EGA)
Learn more about the origins of the Eagle, Globe, and Anchor.
Published on 9/22/2023
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.
MPTA Helps Marine Mother, Crystal, Attend Graduation
Thank you Marine Parents Travel Assistance!
Published on 9/22/2023
On Friday, September 15, 2023, Marine Parents Travel Assistance sent Crystal, Mother of a recruit, to San Diego for the recruit's graduation from Fox Company to become a Marine.
Thank you so much MarineParents.com for helping me see my son follow his dreams. Because of your assistance, I was able to be part of this amazing experience and see his smiling face and all that he's accomplished. Semper fi ❤️ Much love!! So grateful!! Crystal, New Marine Mom
Korean War: Five Hispanic Marines posthumously awarded Medal of Honor
Hispanic Heritage Month
Published on 9/21/2023
Five Marines of Hispanic descent were posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor in the Korean War. All five were members of the 1st Marine Division: PFC Fernando Luis Garcia, PFC Edward Gomez, Staff Sergeant Ambrosio Guillen, First Lieutenant Baldomero Lopez, and PFC Eugene Arnold Obregon. Each of these Marines is a hero; their stories of valor should never be forgotten. Please read and share their stories.
PFC Fernando Luis Garcia, SEPTEMBER 5, 1952, KOREA:
Pfc. Despite suffering painful wounds, Garcia moved through the intense hail of hostile fire to a supply point to secure more hand grenades. Quick to act when a hostile grenade landed nearby, he unhesitatingly chose to sacrifice himself and threw his body upon the deadly missile, receiving the full impact of the explosion.
PFC Edward Gomez, SEPTEMBER 14, 1951, HILL 749, KOREA:
When a hostile grenade landed between himself and his weapon, he shouted a warning to those around him as he grasped the activated charge in his hand. Determined to save his comrades, he unhesitatingly chose to sacrifice himself and, diving into the ditch with the deadly missile, absorbed the shattering violence of the explosion in his body.
Staff Sergeant Ambrosio Guillen, JULY 25, 1953, SONGUCH-ON, KOREA:
With his unit pinned down when the outpost was attacked under cover of darkness by an estimated force of two enemy battalions supported by mortar and artillery fire. He deliberately exposed himself to the heavy barrage and attacks to direct his men in defending their positions and personally supervise the treatment and evacuation of the wounded. Inspired by his leadership, the platoon quickly rallied and engaged the enemy in fierce hand-to-hand combat. Although critically wounded during the battle, S/Sgt. Guillen refused medical aid and continued to direct his men throughout the remainder of the engagement until the enemy was defeated and thrown into a disorderly retreat.
First Lieutenant Baldomero Lopez, SEPTEMBER 15, 1950, INCHON, KOREA:
Baldomero was hit by enemy fire in the shoulder and arm while launching a grenade. He dropped the grenade, endangering his men. Unable to grasp the hand grenade firmly enough to hurl it, he chose to sacrifice himself rather than endanger the lives of his men and, with a sweeping motion of his wounded right arm, cradled the grenade under him and absorbed the full impact of the explosion.
PFC Eugene Arnold Obregon, SEPTEMBER 26, 1950, SEOUL, KOREA:
While saving a wounded comrade and being armed with only a pistol, Obregon seized the wounded Marine's carbine. He then placed his own body as a shield in front of him and lay there firing accurately and effectively into the enemy until he was fatally wounded by enemy machine-gun fire.
OPSEC in Boot Camp
Is it REALLY Necessary NOW?
Published on 9/21/2023
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.
MPTA Helps Marine Mother, Sherry, Attend Graduation
Thank you Marine Parents Travel Assistance!
Published on 9/21/2023
On Friday, September 1, 2023, Marine Parents Travel Assistance sent Sherry, Mother of a recruit, to San Diego for the recruit's graduation from Kilo Company to become a Marine.
Thank you for your generosity. I was diagnosed with breast cancer 21 days after my Marine shipped. Your assistance was such a blessing during this time. I am grateful to have been able to celebrate his success. Sherry, New Marine Mom
MPTA Helps Marine Mother, Nina, Attend Graduation
Thank you Marine Parents Travel Assistance!
Published on 9/20/2023
On Friday, September 1, 2023, Marine Parents Travel Assistance sent Nina, Mother of a recruit, to San Diego for the recruit's graduation from Kilo Company to become a Marine.
The travel assistance I received made it possible for me to attend my son's graduation from boot camp. It meant the world to both of us and was an experience I will treasure for a lifetime. Thank you so much! Nina, New Marine Mom
Marines Cross Han River
September 20, 1950, in Marine Corps history.
Published on 9/20/2023
On September 20, 1950, Marines of the 1st Marine Division crossed the Han River eight miles northwest of Seoul, South Korea. Five days later, the 1st and 5th Marines attacked Seoul and, by the 27th, had captured it.
MCRD San Diego Graduations
A Great Hotel 2 Miles from MCRD!
Published on 9/20/2023
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:
MPTA Helps Marine Mother, Jessica, Attend Graduation
Thank you Marine Parents Travel Assistance!
Published on 9/19/2023
On Friday, September 1, 2023, Marine Parents Travel Assistance sent Jessica, Mother of a recruit, to San Diego for the recruit's graduation from Kilo Company to become a Marine.
I want to thank you for helping with some of the expenses. With the assistance of MarineParents, I was able to watch my son graduate as a new Marine. It’s a day that I will never forget and will always be in my heart. Jessica, New Marine Mom
Christopher Joseph Loria
Hispanic Heritage Month Feature
Published on 9/19/2023
Christopher Joseph "Gus" Loria is a retired Marine Corps Colonel and a medically-retired NASA astronaut. He is a Distinguished Hispanic graduate of the Naval Academy.
After numerous assignments in the Corps, including a combat deployment in support of Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, Loria was selected by NASA in April of 1996 as an Astronaut Candidate, and that August, he reported to the Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas. After completing two years of training, Loria qualified for flight assignment as a shuttle pilot.
Páginas de Marine Parents en Español
Pages of Marine Parents in Spanish
Published on 9/19/2023
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.
MPTA Helps Marine Parents, Richard and Cassandra, Attend Graduation
Thank you Marine Parents Travel Assistance!
Published on 9/18/2023
On Friday, September 1, 2023, Marine Parents Travel Assistance sent Richard & Cassandra, Parents of a recruit, to Parris Island for the recruit's graduation from Hotel Company to become a Marine.
Our daughter began her journey as a recruit in June and graduated on September 01, 2023, as a Marine. She was originally assigned to San Diego. This was close to home and every available family member planned on attending. Surprisingly, on the day of her departure, she was moved to Parris Island. This changed everything as no one would be able to afford the travel. The expense was going to be a challenge for us also because we are a one-income family with little extra. The financial support you have provided allowed us to make the journey to be with our daughter on her special day. We appreciate the support of the Marine Parents Travel Assistance program. We are thankful there is a program like this to help families in need. Thank you so much!! Richard & Cassandra, New Marine Parents
Marine Corps Boot Camp Structure
Training Battalions, Companies, and Platoons
Published on 9/18/2023
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.
Military Operations in Urban Terrain Training Facility Dedication
September 18, 1990, in Marine Corps history.
Published on 9/18/2023
On September 18, 1990, the dedication of a 40-acre training facility for Military Operations in Urban Terrain (MOUT) at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. The dedication took place in a ceremony presided over by then-Commandant of the Marine Corps, General Alfred M. Gray.
MPTA Helps Marine Mother, Bryanna, Attend Graduation
Thank you Marine Parents Travel Assistance!
Published on 9/17/2023
On Friday, September 1, 2023, Marine Parents Travel Assistance sent Bryanna, Mother of a recruit, to San Diego for the recruit's graduation from Kilo Company to become a Marine.
Words can't even explain how proud I am of my Private First Class Marine and all his Kilo Brothers. I have been at every game, concert, award ceremony, and life event thanks to the Marine Parents Travel Assistance program and those who donated. I made it to one of the most important life-changing events in my oldest son's life when I almost couldn't. I am so very thankful for this help and so is my Marine. Semper Fí and congratulations Kilo Co and all the parents. Bryanna, New Marine Mom
MCRD Support Battalion is not RTBN
More Acronyms: STC, MRP, PCP, EHP
Published on 9/17/2023
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).
Firsts for Hispanic Women in the Marine Corps
Hispanic Heritage Month
Published on 9/17/2023
The first known Latina woman Marine served during World War II. Her name was Maria Lourdes (Torres) Maes. Like many women of her era, she joined the Marines specifically to “Free a Man to Fight.” She attained the terminal rank of Corporal.
Born in Puerto Rico, Rose Franco enlisted in 1952 during the Korean War and served until her retirement in 1977. She was the first Hispanic woman to become a chief warrant officer.
Corporal Ramona Valdez, born in the Dominican Republic and raised in the Bronx was the first woman to die in combat in the Iraq War. She was killed in Iraq on June 23, 2005. On August 26, 2017, Fordham Road & Grand Concourse was dedicated as “Marine Corporal Ramona Valdez Square,” in her honor.
The child of Mexican immigrants, Angela Salinas was the first in her family to graduate from college. On August 2, 2006, Major General Angela Salinas made history when she became the first Hispanic female to obtain a general rank in the Marine Corps. Upon her retirement in 2013, she was the highest-ranking female officer in the Marines.
MPTA Helps Marine Mother, Miranda, Attend Graduation
Thank you Marine Parents Travel Assistance!
Published on 9/16/2023
On Friday, September 1, 2023, Marine Parents Travel Assistance sent Miranda, Mother of a recruit, to Parris Island for the recruit's graduation from Hotel Company to become a Marine.
Thanks to the MarineParents Travel Assistance program, I was able to go be with my son for graduation. Due to the hurricane, we were unable to have family day. However, they made it possible for me to travel and attend graduation, as well as bring my Marine home. I’ll be forever grateful for this program and their hard work and dedication to providing families with help to be a part of this very special day. Thank you. Semper Fi. Miranda, New Marine Mom
Joseph Vittori Medal of Honor
September 16, 1951, in Marine Corps history.
Published on 9/16/2023
On September 16, 1951, Corporal Joseph Vittori, 22, of Beverly, Massachusetts, earned the Medal of Honor for his actions during the Battle of the Punchbowl near Songnae-dong, South Korea.
During the battle, Vittori's company was attacking Hill 749, on which North Korean troops had several entrenched positions. Following a North Korean counter-attack that resulted in heavy Marine Corps casualties, Vittori, along with two other volunteers, charged into oncoming enemy troops, engaging them in hand-to-hand combat to give his company time to consolidate its positions.
Later, Vittori volunteered to defend an isolated machine gun position on his company's flank. Over the next three hours, Vittori single-handedly fought to prevent enemy troops from breaking through Marine lines. Vittori repeatedly made trips through enemy fire to replenish his ammunition, manned a machine gun after the gunner was killed, and, despite North Korean troops closing to within feet of his position, Vittori continued to fight until he was killed. The following morning, Marines counted nearly 200 dead enemy soldiers in Vittori's vicinity.
Marines Raid Pirate Stronghold
September 16, 1814, in Marine Corps history.
Published on 9/16/2023
On September 16, 1814, a detachment of Marines from the Naval Station at New Orleans under the command of Major Daniel Carmick, together with an Army detachment, destroyed a pirate stronghold at Barataria, on the Island of Grande Terre, near New Orleans. The stronghold was commanded by the famous pirate Jean Lafitte.
History of Hispanics in the Marine Corps
Hispanic Heritage Month
Published on 9/15/2023
National Hispanic Heritage Month is from September 15 through October 15. Each year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15, by celebrating the histories, cultures, and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America.
The number of Marines of Hispanic descent who infuse the Marine Corps with the unique customs and traditions of their culture continues to grow. The young Hispanic men and women who join the Marine Corps today are born of a proud culture. They choose to adopt the ethos of the Marine Corps, and ultimately strengthen our Corps and Nation.
While it is almost impossible to determine exactly when Hispanics first began serving in the Marine Corps, it is a verifiable fact that the answer is at least since the Boxer Rebellion (1899-1901) when Private France Silva became the first Marine of Hispanic descent to be awarded the Medal of Honor. In the years since, Hispanic Marines have participated in every major conflict our nation has participated in, including World War I, the "Banana Wars" in Latin America, World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, and, most recently, in Afghanistan and Iraq.
POW/MIA Recognition Day: Wearing a Bracelet During Vietnam War Era
Helped Founder to Foster Commitment to Support the Troops
Published on 9/15/2023
By Presidential proclamation each year, the third Friday in September is recognized as National POW/MIA Recognition Day. This year it falls on September 15, 2023. Read our founder's story about how wearing an MIA bracelet during the Vietnam war era helped foster her commitment to support our troops.
When I was a little girl growing up during the Vietnam war, with my father deploying back and forth to Vietnam in the 70s, we lived on an Air Force base in the Philippines. Unlike the civilian population living in the US then, it was common for us to support our troops. "Support Our Troops" was not a popular term at that time. But for us, it was respect for my father's co-workers and the fathers of the children with whom I went to school.
Part of what we did to support the troops then was to wear POW/MIA bracelets. It was a metal band you wore on your wrist with the name and date of "missing" for a military person in Vietnam at that time. My sister and brother wore them, as did the other children in school. I still have my MIA bracelet tucked in my cedar box of memories. See the photo.
We still lived in the Philippines when the GIs returned from the Vietnam war. They all flew into Clark Air Force Base in the Philippines. My mother took us to greet every plane load of GIs regardless of the time the flights landed, to cheer them on and show our support. And we all hoped that "our" MIA would come home on one of those late-night flights.
My brother's metal band was for a POW who came home. They corresponded for several years at Christmas time. My metal band was for an MIA who did not come home. Lieutenant Commander L. J. Van Renselaar was a Pilot in the U.S. Navy. His body was later recovered. I cry as I write this for the sadness and casualties of war. The price of freedom is high. My brother, sister, and I learned that very early.
I hope writing this for others to read will keep his memory alive. While I pray for peace, I know we must prepare for war. Remembering our MIA and POW is vital to our national security. Our country can never forget the sacrifices our military and their families make.
Marines Capture Wolmi-do Island
September 15, 1950, in Marine Corps history.
Published on 9/15/2023
On September 15, 1950, the 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines captured Wolmi-do Island in Inchon Harbor prior to the main landing.
That same day, the 1st Marine Division under the command of Major General Oliver P. Smith landed at Inchon in what is widely viewed as one of, if not the greatest, amphibious assaults of the 20th Century, and began the Inchon-Seoul campaign.
National POW/MIA Recognition Day
3rd Friday in September
Published on 9/15/2023
National POW/MIA Recognition Day was established in 1979 through a proclamation signed by President Jimmy Carter. Since then, each subsequent president has issued an annual proclamation commemorating the third Friday in September as National POW/MIA Recognition Day.
A national-level ceremony is held on every National POW/MIA Recognition Day. Traditionally held at the Pentagon, it features members from each branch of military service and participation from high-ranking officials.
In addition to the national-level ceremony, observances of National POW/MIA Recognition Day are held across the country on military installations, ships at sea, state capitols, schools, and veterans' facilities.
No matter where they are held, these National POW/MIA Recognition Day ceremonies share the common purpose of honoring those who were held captive and returned, as well as those who remain missing.
Since 1999, the POW/MIA Accounting community has created a poster commemorating National POW/MIA Recognition Day. The 2023 edition of the poster continues to honor this tradition.
Videos to Share at Marine Parents
Here are some Marine Corps videos you can share with friends and family!
Published on 9/14/2023
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.
Letters Sent Home from Recruits
What to Expect, When to Expect, How it All Works
Published on 9/14/2023
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.
Becoming a Marine Parent
A 13-Week Journey for You, Too.
Published on 9/13/2023
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.
The Marine Corps Flag
Learn the history of the Marine Corps Flag.
Published on 9/13/2023
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.
The Crucible During Recruit Training
The Crucible is a test every recruit must go through to become a Marine.
Published on 9/13/2023
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.
What’s next in Marine Corps innovation?
A video from MilTech on Defense News
Published on 9/12/2023
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.
Marine Corps Boot Camp Terminology and Acronyms
Learn some of the earliest terminology your recruit is taught during boot camp.
Published on 9/12/2023
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 Motto & Slogans
The long history of the Marine Corps contains many mottos & slogans that are still used today.
Published on 9/12/2023
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.
Travel Plans for Graduation
Marine Corps Recruit Depot: PI & SD
Published on 9/11/2023
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?
Remembering 9/11: 22 Years Later
Almost 3,000 people lost their lives on that Tuesday morning
Published on 9/11/2023
September 11 marks the anniversary of the single largest loss of life from a foreign attack on American soil, ever. Almost 3,000 people lost their lives on that Tuesday morning, and over 7,000 brave Americans have sacrificed everything in the resultant military operations. Read how the events of 9/11 led to the foundation of Marine Parents.
PERSEC vs OPSEC
Do you know the differences between PERSEC and OPSEC?
Published on 9/11/2023
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.
Marines Attacked in Lebanon
September 6, 1983, in Marine Corps history.
Published on 9/6/2023
On September 6, 1983, two Marines were killed and a further two were wounded when rockets hit their compound in Beirut, Lebanon.
Heavy fighting continued for the 24th Marine Amphibious Unit near their positions around the Beirut International Airport, culminating in the militant group Hezbollah bombing the Marine barracks in Beirut the following month.
Lieutenant General Roy S. Geiger Attends Japanese Surrender to Allied Forces
September 2, 1945, in Marine Corps history.
Published on 9/2/2023
On September 2, 1945, the Japanese Empire officially surrendered to Allied forces on board the battleship USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay, officially bringing World War II to an end.
With General Holland Smith having been transferred stateside in July of 1945, Lieutenant General Roy S. Geiger, who had succeeded Smith as Commanding General, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific, was chosen by Admiral Nimitz as the lone representative from the Marine Corps to attend the surrender ceremony.
