As a Marine for 56 years, it was a fun video to watch. Like he said you will have many memories etched into your mind about boot camp. I still remember the names of my three drill instructors and the mind games they played. My boot camp experience was only eight weeks since we were on the fast track to Vietnam. As tuff as boot camp may have been to some recruits, it was a cakewalk compared to being in an infantry company in the Nam. They break you down and then build you up and give you the mindset to survive in combat. To this day all of my best friends are Marines. Those of us in Fox 2/5 who served together in Vietnam have been lifelong friends. The Brotherhood is forever. OOrah!
Whaaaaaatttttt that’s crazy man that was MY GRADUATION PRACTICE !! Hahahaha thats awesome thank you for capturing those moments for me to be able to remember those times.
Hell yeah buddy, I graduated from the Depot in 1984, and within the first 2 hours I missed the damn place and honestly still do. I watch vids like so I can see the place and remember my time there. I can still hear my Drill Instructors when I watch.
Congratulations Devil Dog! It’s called Embracing the Suck. You have been molded for the better whether you realize it or not. Marine Corps Boot Camp turned out to be some of my most memorable moments in the Corps though there were days when I was wondering what in the hell did I get myself into?!? 1980 Reagan Marine. 🤣👍🇺🇸 Semper Fi Marine!
I suffered that feeling about 1 hour after leaving. So do not feel bad as it is a normal thing, when you are used to every movement being directed then suddenly you are free to do what you like to. It is normal. It was 42 years ago I was dismissed from Boot Camp and I still remember that day.
Great video. MCRD has changed alot since I was there. For me, All was great November 3, 1969. Free plane ride to California, Free whiskey on the plane. Oh-man, this is going to be great! Then when we got to San Diego, and met up with the Marine Sgt. at the military information desk. "You maggots come with me!" Uh, did he just call us maggots? We stood outside the airport on the wall awaiting the military bus transportation to arrive. Yeah, when I got to MCRD, the alcohol quickly wore off. I knew, without any doubt, I was in trouble. We didn't get to sleep for the next 24 hrs. Talk about hell night. Yep, Full Metal Jacket all the way. Platoon 3127- Semper Fi! You forgot to show motivation platoon...hahahaha
I entered January 12, 1970. Platoon 2007. When I left the Minneapolis airport it was 30 degrees below zero, and upon arrival at San Diego it was 70 above - a 100 degree difference. Everything you said rings a bell - Full Metal Jacket was "spot on". We waited at the airport (outside) at attention for about an hour before the bus came to pick us up at about 10 PM; a couple of guys passed out because they locked their knees while standing. Yup, lots of changes since then, but the spirit of the Corps remains. Semper Fi
Thanks for the video and bringing back some memories. I graduated from MCRD San Diego in September 1983 and have never been back on that base. I enjoyed 4 years of active duty and after all this time I am still very proud to be a MARINE. Thanks to all the past, present and future Marines for your service. OOH-RAH!!
Excellent visit down memory lane although MCRD is much different now than when I was there becoming a Marine (1964 Plt. 353). I have 3 college degrees and a professional certification but I consider becoming a Marine my greatest accomplishment. I'm traveling to San Diego soon and will be attending an MCRD San Diego boot camp graduation.....I'm so looking forward to my visit and once again seeing the base and the "grinder."
Great video! Things haven't changed much since I was there in 1969. We lived in Quonset huts until the last part of our training and then we transitioned to the new barracks style. Our training was only eight weeks because many of us went directly to Vietnam after ITR, MOS training, first duty station, and then staging battalion for guys headed to RVN.. If you haven't been back to MCRD, you should try to go visit, it's a memorable experience. Anyone who was in country feel free to contact me here. Semper Fi!
Thank you Marine, seeing this brings back old movie memory's, movies made in the 1940's. God Bless you Marine thank you for serving our nation may god guard and protect you.
I leave for bootcamp in about 28 days (May 16), and this video was perfect. Really great information and honestly the insight that I would’ve never known. Seeing the different points to separate the groups of recruits and being able to tell what part of the process they are in based on their uniforms. Really cool is all I got to say. Thank you
The best video I've ever seen of of MCRD San Diego. outfreakingstanding. 33 year USAF (Security Forces) here. However I've loved the Marine Corps all my life. Movies etc. I feel like i know that place just through all the war movies filmed there. Semper Fi . Fly Fight Win.
I also just realized, this video was posted a few weeks after I arrived to MCRD XD You actually got footage of my Senior Drill Instructor, SSgt Moore, and myself in the back of the platoon!
I entered boot camp in January of 1970. The facilities & barracks looked much different then. Lots of quonset huts then where I was billeted my first two weeks before moving into a more modern three story barracks. We had to remove our boots prior to each time entering our barracks, which was supposed to make it easier to clean up during field day each morning. Classrooms were spread around in different buildings. As I recall there weren't nearly that many bleachers along the side of the grinder like there is now. No water bottles back then, but we did march with canteens, but we were seldom allowed to drink from them. We hand washed all our utilities and other clothing outside on long concrete wash stations using a liquid laundry detergent and hung them up to dry outside, using clothespins with our names ink-stamped onto to them (I still have my stamp kit somewhere around my house). According to our DIs the obstacle course had recently been modified because too many recruits were getting injured on the old course; they no longer even called it an "obstacle course", but called it a "confidence course". I was disappointed in that. We were issued M-14s; some had wooden stocks and the others had nylon stocks. Our senior DI made sure we got the nylon ones because there was less maintenance with those and they were supposedly a little lighter, but they felt pretty heavy to me. We didn't get M-16s until we went to ITR, Infantry Training Regiment, right after boot camp at Camp Pendleton. I always preferred the M-14. We were billeted in quonset huts for the entire time of ITR. Our leather boots, dress shoes and the bill of our barracks cover were spit-shined to a mirror finish - we spent a LOT of time doing that. No camouflage utilities, but only olive drab. We couldn't roll our sleeves on them either the entire time I was in. At any rate, I really enjoyed your guided tour of what MCRD San Diego is like today. I sure would like to go back there some day - lots of memories there. Semper Fi! to all my Marine Corps brothers - it's really true, "Once a Marine, Always a Marine."
you didn't get water or water bottles. Our Canteen was kept in the Quanset hut strapped around the rack. Remember they gave us salt tablets? hot in July of 71. Two hours on that parade deck, and you only got water when going back to hut. There were no Bleachers, or big squad bays as I saw in video. The roads were dirt, and classes were held in ww2 building, and we sat at old wood class room desks, The desks were all signed and engraved by guys with dated from early 1960's who went to Vietnam. I remember a hells Angel had signed the table. We had no family day before graduation. Family Day was when we went to I.T.R. I think we all ran up Mt M.F. Close order drill with M-14s and m-16's later. I remember fire watch around the metal Huts at night by the airport, and I would look at that tall building in San Diego, where the top of it was lit up at night. When we graduated, never spoke to the D.I.s just glad to get the hell out of there. I thank the marine who posted this. it sure brought back memories of a different time. I was 17 years old in Boot camp. I don't know how you managed 6 years? good Job for you. San Clemente had only one pizza shop back in 1972. I looked at San Clemente today and it's a different world. I wish you could of seen that world I came from back then, through my eyes! life is short. still have 1971 lima company photo from I.T.R. with 245 marines.
@ Jack. Yup, no bleachers along the grinder, just a small reviewing stand for the brass. WW2 buildings served as classrooms, and I always contemplated about the guys who came before me who left their marks on the desk tops, especially so at Camp Pendleton during ITR. I wondered who among them were still among the living and who no longer were - very sobering. I remember our first platoon run around a 220 yard dirt track to begin preparing for the eventual 3 miler. I wasn't sure I'd be able to do 3 miles in our initial run under the required 28 minutes after that first run, but I made it with time to spare, as did most of my platoon. During our final run along the dirt track right next to the airport I made it in 18 minutes as did about 1/3 of my platoon, which astonished me. We did have a family day the day prior to graduation (but nothing when ITR was completed), and my brother who was in the Navy came that day dressed in his Navy whites as well as for graduation. Following graduation we did a walking tour around the base and stopped at the enlisted men's club to shoot pool. I nearly got into a fight with another Marine when he accidentally spilled a Coke on my brother's cover. I was so indoctrinated I was anxious to defend my brother's honor by decking the guy, but he held me back. Good thing he did because I probably would have set a record in the shortest time for a brand new Marine to be thrown into the brig. As my brother, a buddy of mine and I approached one of my DIs to ask him a question about where my brother could catch a bus my buddy nearly fainted with fear, but my DI was very helpful and all was well, and there were no repercussions later. The airport was the source of a lot of disrupting noise that made hearing the DIs clearly, which was especially hard during drill. One of our classroom instructors asked if we wanted to finish boot camp two weeks early and we all shouted "Yes", and he said "Then get them to move the airport." I don't remember my company in ITR even getting a photo taken of us. I would certainly have treasured having that. I've often wondered about what happened to that same buddy from boot camp (he bunked right above me) because he didn't finish ITR with me because of some sort of injury or illness. I was assigned to be his tutor during boot camp by a DI because he was struggling with his "knowledge" and he claimed he never would have made it were it not for me - that was one of the best compliments I ever got. I entered boot camp at 140 pounds on a 5'9" frame and when I separated from the Corps I was 143, which was a head scratcher for me. Apparently my metabolism burns calories at a high rate since all of these years later I am only 151 pounds (down from my highest weight of 179 back in 1994). When I do want to lose weight it's pretty easy for me. I'm in pretty good shape thanks to a regular exercise regimen, which combines bike riding for aerobic work and strength conditioning with liberal amounts of stretching to keep me limber and flexible.
Thank you Marine, Been there to watch a friend graduate. now looking back i wish i would of joined when i got out of high school, I think i would of loved military life.
For those that don't know, you will get a haircut EVERY week after your initial one. I stepped onto the yellow footprints on 27 Aug 1984. I can remember the metal quonset huts where still there, a couple had been converted into classrooms. I remember during one session, the SDI yelling "Gomer Pyle had it easy, YOU will not" lol. Those recruits with the trousers rolled up might have been 3rd phase recruits as well. I say this because we screwed up big during one of our close order drill sessions, so to punish us they said if we were going to act like 1st phase recruits then we were going to look like them. So they had us roll down our sleeves, button our blouse top button, un-blouse our boots, and then the final indignation they had us roll up our new guidon so no one knew which platoon we were. I remember the parade deck had the auditorium at one end, and Sea School at the other. Our family day was held the Sunday before graduation. I guess they changed it because it got to be expensive for families coming for Visitors Sunday to stay in San Diego a whole week until graduation. I remember the day of graduation being cold and rainy so our graduation was held inside the auditorium. One thing nobody mentions though, is when standing at attention, do not lock your knees, or you will pass out.
Wow! I was there at the same time as you were. I got there on June 25, 1984, and graduated September 14, 1984. I was halfway though 3rd phase when you got there. I started ITS on September 23rd over at Camp San Onofre, where we did RFTD. Got to see good old Mount Motherfucker and Old Smokey again. Good times!
I remember the day I stepped on the Yellow footprints, it was 07November1983, that night was a living hell. But I can assure you I would do it all again if I had the chance too. Those were some fun times as a young man who did not know where he was going however, by the time I was done with boot camp I knew where I ws going and have not looked back. Platoon 3127 Company M was mine and I will always be true blue 3rd in my heart.
Cool video. My proudest day is when my son graduated at PISC. I had to pull over to let my wife and daughter experience first hand recruits getting smoked and lambasted.
Ahh Charlie Co squad bay right across from the recruit px. I remember the sand pit next to it also, our whole platoon was face deep in that after our first time being on the parade deck... good times I had the best SDI, Senior Drill Instructor Gunnery Sergeant Ertel and chief drill instructor gunnery sergeant Burger. Two great guys.
Thank you , and congratulations with your service in the Corp! I was on Worm island NTC 1978, used to see the Marines and wondered if I had made a mistake...lol I made it through not only Navy, but went on to service in the Air Force , and am proud to say my nephew graduates the 26Jul19. I still wished I served in the Marines...Semper Fi
MCRD San Diego, 1st Recruit Battalion, Series 169, Platoon 170. April-July 1968. Semper Fi, TreeTop, Sergeant (E-5) PS: We lived in Quonset huts during boot camp but when I came home, MCRD was also serving as an Overseas Separation Center. At that time (January, 1971) I noticed they were building the three story squad bays.
i remember i stepped on those prints last year december 2nd. right bc two final drill, the one drill instructor i idolized the most took us back to those prints for a hype speech and he showed which ones he stood on. they were the exact same ones i stood on. it helped me through a LOT
Memories I will never forget AND WON'T do over again. BUT this is what I learned, that a Bachelors' degree from college will earn you an officer's commission and a much better life.
May 20th 2019 I graduated August 16th from MCRD San Diego with Delta Company. Best 3 months of my life, you go in thinking you know what to expect from video’s and stories but you get a reality check real quick. I had the best DI’s, they were fair and hard on us. I loved bootcamp, and miss it tbh
Im coming to San Diego this summer with my girlfriend for a few weeks. This is going to be a surprise stop LOLS! (I remember being so tired sitting in that "classroom" watching those historical movies.) I was able to get a lot of rest in there when the lights went out for the movie / powerpoint presentations.
in 1964 we lived in many quonset huts, in what now appears to be the obstacle course. That area was off limits to anyone not involved in recruit training. On the grinder were visible to any base visitors, back in our area the DIs coud get away with anything! Google mcrd san diego 1960s to find a photo.
Was there in 85. Back then family could not make it, we was poor. Fast forward 20 years later my wife and I planned a vacation to San Diego. Her first visit to the ocean (my first back then) and I made it a point to see a graduation. We made it and it was awesome seeing it from a different perspective. Families asked if I was there for my son and I told them I was here to check out a graduation, support, and reminisce. They were pleased. Checked out the museum and stuff. It was great! I had little knowledge of what to expect then and this video will give an idea to those who want to join Gunny Hartman's beloved Corps. Cool video. Thanks. Semper Fi!
OMG! I went to see my Marine graduate and it was one of the proudest days of my life! This video made me cry from all the memories! July 9, 2018 was his day on the yellow footsteps ;-) God bless all the Marines!
Graduated August 5, 1994 and I haven't been back since. Thanks for the video, seen the outside portholes to my old squadbays (2nd deck in 1st phase, 1st deck in 3rd phase) facing the PX. "Attack the chowhall!" "Kill!" plus we had to scream at the jets taking off :) memories~Semper Fi
Very good presentation. A stark contrast to the typical mayhem clips that get the most views on youtube. It's also good to see that things haven't changed. USMC 1981-1988 Camp Lejeune Kaneohe Bay Okinawa
I graduated from MCRD San Diego on September 13, 1984. I was in 1st Bn, Charlie Company, Platoon 1066. The squadbay that you were pointing at, that housed Bravo Company, was where we lived during third phase. I remember it like it was yesterday. Thanks for the memories!
I went thru MCRD in summer of ' 69. I9 years old then 75 now. Always feel like a Marine still. I'll never forget those yellow footprints and that first night and that last day of graduation. The feeling was a indescribable sense of pride!
@@TheSnyds yeah ive been giving that some thought and most likely going to check that out, but thanks man ---------- l. l l. \ l. \. ______ \. \. /. \ ______ _--------------i. \. |. | / [ \|. | \__________________/ \. | /[ \. | \_________________/ |. | /[ | | \_________________/ / | /[ / | \_________________/_________/|. | \________/ That took a long time lol
That was great..nice window into what to expect..I am sending this to my 19 yr old son who is considering it so I appreciate all the tips and info to help prepare as much as possible. Thank you for your service as well.
I barely remember this. The rappel tower with a Swiss sweat and munter hitch? I just took up rappelling again, damn near shit my pants. No joke when you do it solo as a senior citizen and build all the anchors etc yourself. This was a good life experience, that was than, this is now. I don't stop, I move forward in something. Use that GI Bill for College etc. Move forward in something.
I second your comments. I did get a Bachelor's and an advanced degree. Also took up rock climbing, scuba diving and sky diving. Now in my 70s I can't even walk up a hill without getting knee pain.
Great video! Graduated in 78 and it still looks the same. Plat 1097. DI's SSGT Arbo, SGGT Pearson, SGT Solar and CPL Dauchman. What is with the sneakers? We ran and did PT in our boots lol. Semper Fi.
A new addition to the brotherhood, but I'm proud to come aboard. (Mike Company) January 27th, 2020 was the night I stepped on those fateful yellow prints. Truly a night to remember until I die. Semper Fidelis.
Sam O - Welcome aboard Devil Dog! August 1980 was when I stepped foot in the yellow Marine Corps footprints. 🦶 Semper Fi, Do or Die, Marine for Life! 😎👍🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
37 years ago for me. Feels like yesterday. I found o e of MT Junior DIs on Facebook. He still remembered me. Probably cause I could run, swim and drill really well, but mostly because I was having fun in boot camp. Call me a sadist😁
Yup. At ITR there was a guy directly across from me who had a radio. Because of the rounded corrugated overhead when he turned it on at night it was like it was playing right next to me.
I' ll never forget those quonsonh huts in '69. They were hot in the day in summer and cold at night. No ac and not even fans. Had at Pendelton also in ITR.
My platoon was housed in the same area. I heard most of the huts are gone and the remaining ones are a museum. Live in SoCal, passed MCRD many times on my way to continuing education classes but have never returned for a visit. Many decades ago the rifle range land, Camp Mathews, was sold to UCSD. If you drive on the old PCH you can still see stone remnants of the huts. Now shooting range is Camp Evans and can be seen from the 101. Air conditioned quarters, LOL.
Hell no I don't miss it! I do miss all the friends I made though in the USMC after boot. I am 65 years old and still think of those guys from time to time. I was very lucky though because after boot I was stationed at MCAS El Toro. El Toro is not around any longer but it was a great duty station. We use to joke that being at El Toro was like being in Marine Corps lite. I remember the morning after I was discharged we all went off base to a nice restaurant. After we ate we went out to the parking lot to say our good byes. Need les to say there lots of tears. Semper Fi everyone!
Quarterdeck Commando!! Getting Smoked like a $2 Tijuana Stogie!! My Senior Drill Instructor shaved off one half of his mustache and Smoked anyone who laughed. Which was most of us. Damn that shit was funny.
Other videos taken of new recruits show them on the yellow footprints and then they get rushed into their "contraband room." You know, that room with the red open top box structures and the white mesh bags and everything. And then they went to the barber shop.
I'm glad that when I went to MCRD San Diego 1990. I really didn't know what to expect. There was a kind of mystical about it. Now, with RUclips there isn't that er of mystery anymore.
That Squad bay didn't exist when I was at MCRD 47 years ago! Landed on the yellow footprints July 12th, 1971. Platoon 3074. There were a lot of ww2 building when I was there. it was hot as hell, and we were in the old metal Quanset huts by the airport. Close order drill two hours a day with M-14s . No such think back then as cell phones, social media, fan-fare, etc. lots of fights, and the DI's used to punch guys. No P.C. Graduated in front of the theatre sept, 28th, 1971. My Friend went to Vietnam, but I went through Sea School, Graduated in 1972, stationed Mare Island. Calif.
@ Keith hard to believe we went through there around same time. They only have 4 quanset huts left. I must of walked San Clemente a thousand times. Different world and corps when we were in. I think better times too! Take care brother.
Oh yeah, I remember marching from Receiving Barracks to the Q huts. When we got to the area I heard something hitting metal. Turns out it was a recruit thrown against a locker. Oops, my thought was I made a mistake and should've stayed in school.
So I've got a question. I haven't set foot in MCRD San Diego since 2017 after graduating. Now that I'm finally back and stationed in Camp Pendleton, I have an urge to visit some old memories. What are the do's and don't's when visiting MCRD? I was told that when visiting, you're not allowed to be on the recruit side and must stay on the Marine side. Am I able to walk around anywhere on MCRD, disregarding the training courses for the recruits, and not get scolded for it?
It was interesting to look around the Depot. I went thru Boot camp in '77 ! Platoon 3021 Senior Drill Instructor SSGT Ward Haven't gone back, but would love to, if my health holds out. Always wonder if the dent in one of the drain pipes in front of the Barracks is still there ? Got pushed from behind, by some Shitbird after being told to get inside after formation, and struck the drain pipe with my forearm ! Proud to say I put a Hell of a dent in that pipe ! Cost me Marine Barracks Duty, as I was fixing to beat his ass once inside, until the house mouse jumped on my back ! He ended up on the floor as I threw him over my shoulder ! I can still see the SSGT running towards me, screaming my name, and telling me to hault, as he grabbed my windpipe to get me to stop ! Ended up with Office Hours ! ( NJP ) And as I said lost Marine Barracks Duty at Rota Spain ! Instead, got to hump 81mm Mortars all over the Hills of Pendleton ! And I mean all over ! We thought we were Mountain Goats ! Funny now, but it wasn't funny then ! It's been 43 years since I left Pendleton, and often wondered if I should have stayed ? Especially after the Marine Barracks Bombing in Beirut, killing 241 of my Brothers ! I never knew just how connected I was to the Corps until that happened ! It felt like someone hit me with a sledge hammer ! I'll tell you that this esprit de corps is real ! It's deeply ingrained in you, with each breath you take as a Marine ! There is no Greater Fighting Force ! GOD BLESS US ALL SEMPER FI '76 -'80 1/7 WEAPONS CO 81's Camp San Mateo Division Champs
Landed at SAN Dec 1975. MCRD-SD was the first time anyone ever called me a "maggot". Wasn't even off the bus yet, lol. From the yellow footprints to your last day on the parade deck, every second is worth it. You'll see and hear stuff you dare not repeat (until after graduation) and its all worth it. Work hard. Keep your nose clean. Question nothing because know nothing. They build Marines here and do it better than anyone else on earth. SF.
July 1997 mighty Mike! 3113. Recruit Green! Senior drill instructor staff sergeant Gilmer! Drill instructor Staff Sgt Seguin! Drill instructor staff sergeant Emner! Drill instructor Sergeant ivy! Your right you never forget. My Squad Bay was the first building in front of parking lot. If you facing parade deck. Building to the right!
MCRD San Diego Day one for me was August 23rd, 1988. Became a Marine on November 9, 1988. Best decision I’ve ever made in my 51 years on this planet. Semper Fi.
I really do miss the Marine Corps. If i could start all over again i would do it. I didn’t get a dishonorable discharge, never got NJP’ed, never busted own, never had any medical problems, never in the pork chop platoon, i actually enjoyed company, battalion, regimental pt on fridays especially when we ran those Pendleton hills, sounding off over all the rest of the companies. I completed my enlistment. I just regret not taking advantage of everything the Marine Corps had to offer. And also I would have taken it easy on the alcohol lol.
Started bootcamp in August 13th, 2018 and was a hell of a experience good times, shit times, funny ass times, and embracing the suck times but overall the experience of bootcamp is something I will never forget especially at the top of the Reaper
![Seungmin "그렇게, 천천히, 우리(As we are)" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/kAzmhLHePqU/mqdefault.jpg)
Chow to chow, Sunday to Sunday
that’s how I survived, I even secretly copied the MCRDSD training matrix schedule and marked down each Sunday
As a Marine for 56 years, it was a fun video to watch. Like he said you will have many memories etched into your mind about boot camp. I still remember the names of my three drill instructors and the mind games they played. My boot camp experience was only eight weeks since we were on the fast track to Vietnam. As tuff as boot camp may have been to some recruits, it was a cakewalk compared to being in an infantry company in the Nam. They break you down and then build you up and give you the mindset to survive in combat. To this day all of my best friends are Marines. Those of us in Fox 2/5 who served together in Vietnam have been lifelong friends. The Brotherhood is forever. OOrah!
When were you in Vietnam? A Marine I went to boot camp with was KIA in Fox 2nd Plt 2/5.
I appreciate you making this very helpful for parents of a Marine. What made it even better was you did it without cussing!
That actually amazes me as well 😂, good luck to your son!
Whaaaaaatttttt that’s crazy man that was MY GRADUATION PRACTICE !! Hahahaha thats awesome thank you for capturing those moments for me to be able to remember those times.
No problem man!
No way man that’s really cool!
I just graduated on the 31st of May, as much as I hated MCRD, I oddly miss it. Anyone else?
I'm watching this video bcuz I miss it
Its weird, you hate the depot at first, then you’ll miss it once you leave. By any chance were you A Company ?
Hell yeah buddy, I graduated from the Depot in 1984, and within the first 2 hours I missed the damn place and honestly still do. I watch vids like so I can see the place and remember my time there. I can still hear my Drill Instructors when I watch.
Congratulations Devil Dog! It’s called Embracing the Suck. You have been molded for the better whether you realize it or not. Marine Corps Boot Camp turned out to be some of my most memorable moments in the Corps though there were days when I was wondering what in the hell did I get myself into?!? 1980 Reagan Marine. 🤣👍🇺🇸 Semper Fi Marine!
I suffered that feeling about 1 hour after leaving. So do not feel bad as it is a normal thing, when you are used to every movement being directed then suddenly you are free to do what you like to. It is normal. It was 42 years ago I was dismissed from Boot Camp and I still remember that day.
Great video. MCRD has changed alot since I was there.
For me, All was great November 3, 1969. Free plane ride to California, Free whiskey on the plane. Oh-man, this is going to be great! Then when we got to San Diego, and met up with the Marine Sgt. at the military information desk. "You maggots come with me!" Uh, did he just call us maggots? We stood outside the airport on the wall awaiting the military bus transportation to arrive. Yeah, when I got to MCRD, the alcohol quickly wore off. I knew, without any doubt, I was in trouble. We didn't get to sleep for the next 24 hrs. Talk about hell night. Yep, Full Metal Jacket all the way. Platoon 3127- Semper Fi!
You forgot to show motivation platoon...hahahaha
I entered January 12, 1970. Platoon 2007. When I left the Minneapolis airport it was 30 degrees below zero, and upon arrival at San Diego it was 70 above - a 100 degree difference. Everything you said rings a bell - Full Metal Jacket was "spot on". We waited at the airport (outside) at attention for about an hour before the bus came to pick us up at about 10 PM; a couple of guys passed out because they locked their knees while standing. Yup, lots of changes since then, but the spirit of the Corps remains. Semper Fi
The flight wasn't free in 2001. They take it out your pay at the end of training
9 July, 1969, Plt. 3131. Yep, you didn't make up anything. I remember the feelings well, even though it was many decades ago.
June 26, 1969 Plt 3123 Feet on the yellow footprints. What the hell have I done?
Thanks for the video and bringing back some memories. I graduated from MCRD San Diego in September 1983 and have never been back on that base. I enjoyed 4 years of active duty and after all this time I am still very proud to be a MARINE. Thanks to all the past, present and future Marines for your service. OOH-RAH!!
Excellent visit down memory lane although MCRD is much different now than when I was there becoming a Marine (1964 Plt. 353). I have 3 college degrees and a professional certification but I consider becoming a Marine my greatest accomplishment. I'm traveling to San Diego soon and will be attending an MCRD San Diego boot camp graduation.....I'm so looking forward to my visit and once again seeing the base and the "grinder."
Great video! Things haven't changed much since I was there in 1969. We lived in Quonset huts until the last part of our training and then we transitioned to the new barracks style. Our training was only eight weeks because many of us went directly to Vietnam after ITR, MOS training, first duty station, and then staging battalion for guys headed to RVN.. If you haven't been back to MCRD, you should try to go visit, it's a memorable experience. Anyone who was in country feel free to contact me here.
Semper Fi!
Awesome, thanks for the share. Semper Fi!
Thank you Marine, seeing this brings back old movie memory's, movies made in the 1940's. God Bless you Marine thank you for serving our nation may god guard and protect you.
I leave for bootcamp in about 28 days (May 16), and this video was perfect. Really great information and honestly the insight that I would’ve never known. Seeing the different points to separate the groups of recruits and being able to tell what part of the process they are in based on their uniforms. Really cool is all I got to say. Thank you
Good luck man!
Please tell your experiences when you get back.
Yes my son just left last night
The best video I've ever seen of of MCRD San Diego. outfreakingstanding. 33 year USAF (Security Forces) here. However I've loved the Marine Corps all my life. Movies etc. I feel like i know that place just through all the war movies filmed there. Semper Fi . Fly Fight Win.
I also just realized, this video was posted a few weeks after I arrived to MCRD XD You actually got footage of my Senior Drill Instructor, SSgt Moore, and myself in the back of the platoon!
I’m a corpsman working at MCRD and it’s definitely interesting seeing all the recruits lol
Did you happen to work in the smart center
@@nickmartinez2270 nooo I was in processing
@@realeimon are you talking about that part in receiving where we receive the shots and the medical analysis stuff?
@@nickmartinez2270 yes !
I entered boot camp in January of 1970. The facilities & barracks looked much different then. Lots of quonset huts then where I was billeted my first two weeks before moving into a more modern three story barracks. We had to remove our boots prior to each time entering our barracks, which was supposed to make it easier to clean up during field day each morning. Classrooms were spread around in different buildings.
As I recall there weren't nearly that many bleachers along the side of the grinder like there is now. No water bottles back then, but we did march with canteens, but we were seldom allowed to drink from them. We hand washed all our utilities and other clothing outside on long concrete wash stations using a liquid laundry detergent and hung them up to dry outside, using clothespins with our names ink-stamped onto to them (I still have my stamp kit somewhere around my house).
According to our DIs the obstacle course had recently been modified because too many recruits were getting injured on the old course; they no longer even called it an "obstacle course", but called it a "confidence course". I was disappointed in that. We were issued M-14s; some had wooden stocks and the others had nylon stocks. Our senior DI made sure we got the nylon ones because there was less maintenance with those and they were supposedly a little lighter, but they felt pretty heavy to me. We didn't get M-16s until we went to ITR, Infantry Training Regiment, right after boot camp at Camp Pendleton. I always preferred the M-14. We were billeted in quonset huts for the entire time of ITR.
Our leather boots, dress shoes and the bill of our barracks cover were spit-shined to a mirror finish - we spent a LOT of time doing that. No camouflage utilities, but only olive drab. We couldn't roll our sleeves on them either the entire time I was in.
At any rate, I really enjoyed your guided tour of what MCRD San Diego is like today. I sure would like to go back there some day - lots of memories there. Semper Fi! to all my Marine Corps brothers - it's really true, "Once a Marine, Always a Marine."
Keith Popko still use canteens just get water bottles once your a Marine haha. But thanks for sharing your stories!
there in 1971. what you said was how it was. different world back in our day. semper fi brother.
Semper Fi!
you didn't get water or water bottles. Our Canteen was kept in the Quanset hut strapped around the rack. Remember they gave us salt tablets? hot in July of 71. Two hours on that parade deck, and you only got water when going back to hut. There were no Bleachers, or big squad bays as I saw in video. The roads were dirt, and classes were held in ww2 building, and we sat at old wood class room desks, The desks were all signed and engraved by guys with dated from early 1960's who went to Vietnam. I remember a hells Angel had signed the table. We had no family day before graduation. Family Day was when we went to I.T.R. I think we all ran up Mt M.F. Close order drill with M-14s and m-16's later. I remember fire watch around the metal Huts at night by the airport, and I would look at that tall building in San Diego, where the top of it was lit up at night. When we graduated, never spoke to the D.I.s just glad to get the hell out of there. I thank the marine who posted this. it sure brought back memories of a different time. I was 17 years old in Boot camp. I don't know how you managed 6 years? good Job for you. San Clemente had only one pizza shop back in 1972. I looked at San Clemente today and it's a different world. I wish you could of seen that world I came from back then, through my eyes! life is short. still have 1971 lima company photo from I.T.R. with 245 marines.
@ Jack. Yup, no bleachers along the grinder, just a small reviewing stand for the brass. WW2 buildings served as classrooms, and I always contemplated about the guys who came before me who left their marks on the desk tops, especially so at Camp Pendleton during ITR. I wondered who among them were still among the living and who no longer were - very sobering.
I remember our first platoon run around a 220 yard dirt track to begin preparing for the eventual 3 miler. I wasn't sure I'd be able to do 3 miles in our initial run under the required 28 minutes after that first run, but I made it with time to spare, as did most of my platoon. During our final run along the dirt track right next to the airport I made it in 18 minutes as did about 1/3 of my platoon, which astonished me.
We did have a family day the day prior to graduation (but nothing when ITR was completed), and my brother who was in the Navy came that day dressed in his Navy whites as well as for graduation. Following graduation we did a walking tour around the base and stopped at the enlisted men's club to shoot pool. I nearly got into a fight with another Marine when he accidentally spilled a Coke on my brother's cover. I was so indoctrinated I was anxious to defend my brother's honor by decking the guy, but he held me back. Good thing he did because I probably would have set a record in the shortest time for a brand new Marine to be thrown into the brig.
As my brother, a buddy of mine and I approached one of my DIs to ask him a question about where my brother could catch a bus my buddy nearly fainted with fear, but my DI was very helpful and all was well, and there were no repercussions later.
The airport was the source of a lot of disrupting noise that made hearing the DIs clearly, which was especially hard during drill. One of our classroom instructors asked if we wanted to finish boot camp two weeks early and we all shouted "Yes", and he said "Then get them to move the airport."
I don't remember my company in ITR even getting a photo taken of us. I would certainly have treasured having that. I've often wondered about what happened to that same buddy from boot camp (he bunked right above me) because he didn't finish ITR with me because of some sort of injury or illness. I was assigned to be his tutor during boot camp by a DI because he was struggling with his "knowledge" and he claimed he never would have made it were it not for me - that was one of the best compliments I ever got.
I entered boot camp at 140 pounds on a 5'9" frame and when I separated from the Corps I was 143, which was a head scratcher for me. Apparently my metabolism burns calories at a high rate since all of these years later I am only 151 pounds (down from my highest weight of 179 back in 1994). When I do want to lose weight it's pretty easy for me. I'm in pretty good shape thanks to a regular exercise regimen, which combines bike riding for aerobic work and strength conditioning with liberal amounts of stretching to keep me limber and flexible.
Thank you Marine, Been there to watch a friend graduate. now looking back i wish i would of joined when i got out of high school, I think i would of loved military life.
Def a nice way to get on your feet. But it's also not for everyone
Wait... this is probably one of the best pre-boot camp vids on RUclips. Thanks for this. Shipping in 2 months to MCRD
Good luck man
I started my journey at June 1987. At the famous MCRD!!! All those memories!! Thanks for the video!! USMC 1991
For those that don't know, you will get a haircut EVERY week after your initial one. I stepped onto the yellow footprints on 27 Aug 1984. I can remember the metal quonset huts where still there, a couple had been converted into classrooms. I remember during one session, the SDI yelling "Gomer Pyle had it easy, YOU will not" lol. Those recruits with the trousers rolled up might have been 3rd phase recruits as well. I say this because we screwed up big during one of our close order drill sessions, so to punish us they said if we were going to act like 1st phase recruits then we were going to look like them. So they had us roll down our sleeves, button our blouse top button, un-blouse our boots, and then the final indignation they had us roll up our new guidon so no one knew which platoon we were. I remember the parade deck had the auditorium at one end, and Sea School at the other. Our family day was held the Sunday before graduation. I guess they changed it because it got to be expensive for families coming for Visitors Sunday to stay in San Diego a whole week until graduation. I remember the day of graduation being cold and rainy so our graduation was held inside the auditorium. One thing nobody mentions though, is when standing at attention, do not lock your knees, or you will pass out.
Oh the memories! Your exactly right man. History repeats itself, we did the same stuff in 3rd phase
Only the first haircut is free. The rest is paid with the chits recruits are issued
Wow! I was there at the same time as you were. I got there on June 25, 1984, and graduated September 14, 1984. I was halfway though 3rd phase when you got there. I started ITS on September 23rd over at Camp San Onofre, where we did RFTD. Got to see good old Mount Motherfucker and Old Smokey again. Good times!
Even in 2017, we had the exact same punishment in 3rd phase! Glad i got a taste of what it used to be like (as odd as that sounds) Semper fi!
The don't lock your knees part. I did that once and landed on my back lol!! I even yelled out DRILL INSTRUCTOR DRILL INSTRUCTOR DRILL INSTRUCTOR!!!
The drill instructor that was ITing the recruits was Sgt Airoldi. He was my drill instructor. That man was mean.
I remember the day I stepped on the Yellow footprints, it was 07November1983, that night was a living hell. But I can assure you I would do it all again if I had the chance too. Those were some fun times as a young man who did not know where he was going however, by the time I was done with boot camp I knew where I ws going and have not looked back. Platoon 3127 Company M was mine and I will always be true blue 3rd in my heart.
Cool video. My proudest day is when my son graduated at PISC. I had to pull over to let my wife and daughter experience first hand recruits getting smoked and lambasted.
Ahh Charlie Co squad bay right across from the recruit px. I remember the sand pit next to it also, our whole platoon was face deep in that after our first time being on the parade deck... good times
I had the best SDI, Senior Drill Instructor Gunnery Sergeant Ertel and chief drill instructor gunnery sergeant Burger. Two great guys.
Awesome memories for sure. Semper FI
Thank you , and congratulations with your service in the Corp! I was on Worm island NTC 1978, used to see the Marines and wondered if I had made a mistake...lol
I made it through not only Navy, but went on to service in the Air Force , and am proud to say my nephew graduates the 26Jul19. I still wished I served in the Marines...Semper Fi
NAH, you haven't missed much. You probably learned useful skills in the Navy and AF.
MCRD San Diego, 1st Recruit Battalion, Series 169, Platoon 170. April-July 1968.
Semper Fi, TreeTop, Sergeant (E-5)
PS: We lived in Quonset huts during boot camp but when I came home, MCRD was also serving as an Overseas Separation Center. At that time (January, 1971) I noticed they were building the three story squad bays.
Graduated in April 79 , Thanks for the tour , looks basically the same.
No problem!
Can’t fooking wait I’ll be stepping on those exact yellow footprints on a October 19th
Good luck!
Congrats and good luck!! I’ll be there June 1st
So how was it
i remember i stepped on those prints last year december 2nd. right bc two final drill, the one drill instructor i idolized the most took us back to those prints for a hype speech and he showed which ones he stood on. they were the exact same ones i stood on. it helped me through a LOT
Memories I will never forget and would do all over again. Semper Fi. Lima company platoon 3251 '2007
Vinnie McFly Lethal Lima! Rah
Memories I will never forget AND WON'T do over again. BUT this is what I learned, that a Bachelors' degree from college will earn you an officer's commission and a much better life.
Seeing the barber shop doors just after the yellow footprints was a total flash back! 3rd Battalion India Co 3139 (2003-2004)
May 20th 2019 I graduated August 16th from MCRD San Diego with Delta Company. Best 3 months of my life, you go in thinking you know what to expect from video’s and stories but you get a reality check real quick. I had the best DI’s, they were fair and hard on us. I loved bootcamp, and miss it tbh
Brings so much memories alpha company graduated September 13 2019
Brings back memories for all Marines no matter when they became Marines
Semper Fi
My brother was in delta company he was there with you
Nick Martinez My brother graduated on the same day and was in the same company as you.
@@cgarcia8900 what platoon?
Nick Martinez Platoon 1002
My son hit the footprints Dec 2. Graduation is approaching Feb 28. Semper Fi!
Thank you for your service. ❤️🇺🇲
Exciting times!
Great video! Thanks, Our son is there right now! Loved seeing where he is!
Im coming to San Diego this summer with my girlfriend for a few weeks. This is going to be a surprise stop LOLS! (I remember being so tired sitting in that "classroom" watching those historical movies.) I was able to get a lot of rest in there when the lights went out for the movie / powerpoint presentations.
Really was memory lane. Thanks for the video. Made me reminisce a lot.
No prob bro
in 1964 we lived in many quonset huts, in what now appears to be the obstacle course. That area was off limits to anyone not involved in recruit training. On the grinder were visible to any base visitors, back in our area the DIs coud get away with anything! Google mcrd san diego 1960s to find a photo.
Indeed, brother, I will never forget the date on that yellow footprint. July 16, 2006.
I was 3rd battalion Lima Co. Plt. 3030 mcrd San Diego. I was on those footprints July 17 2006.
Lots of memories, MCRD SD arrived 22 October 1991. Kilo Company 3095. Would love to return some day.
Was there in 85. Back then family could not make it, we was poor. Fast forward 20 years later my wife and I planned a vacation to San Diego. Her first visit to the ocean (my first back then) and I made it a point to see a graduation. We made it and it was awesome seeing it from a different perspective. Families asked if I was there for my son and I told them I was here to check out a graduation, support, and reminisce. They were pleased. Checked out the museum and stuff. It was great! I had little knowledge of what to expect then and this video will give an idea to those who want to join Gunny Hartman's beloved Corps. Cool video. Thanks. Semper Fi!
Semper Fi Marine!
OMG! I went to see my Marine graduate and it was one of the proudest days of my life! This video made me cry from all the memories! July 9, 2018 was his day on the yellow footsteps ;-) God bless all the Marines!
We all appreciate it. Thank your son for me!
Graduated August 5, 1994 and I haven't been back since. Thanks for the video, seen the outside portholes to my old squadbays (2nd deck in 1st phase, 1st deck in 3rd phase) facing the PX. "Attack the chowhall!" "Kill!" plus we had to scream at the jets taking off :) memories~Semper Fi
Memory lane
Very good presentation. A stark contrast to the typical mayhem clips that get the most views on youtube. It's also good to see that things haven't changed.
USMC 1981-1988
Camp Lejeune
Kaneohe Bay
Okinawa
I graduated from MCRD San Diego on September 13, 1984. I was in 1st Bn, Charlie Company, Platoon 1066. The squadbay that you were pointing at, that housed Bravo Company, was where we lived during third phase. I remember it like it was yesterday. Thanks for the memories!
I went thru MCRD in summer of ' 69. I9 years old then 75 now. Always feel like a Marine still. I'll never forget those yellow footprints and that first night and that last day of graduation. The feeling was a indescribable sense of pride!
im planning on the Marine Corps but i have to wait a good 2 or 3 years so i can finish highschool. im west of the Mississippi so ill be there soon
Check out the DEP (delayed entry program). Thats what i did
@@TheSnyds yeah ive been giving that some thought and most likely going to check that out, but thanks man
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That took a long time lol
@@TheSnyds how long was that?
October 1965..a bit different from today. Quonset huts. Made it, discharged proud Sgt E5 6 years later. Semper FI !!!
That was great..nice window into what to expect..I am sending this to my 19 yr old son who is considering it so I appreciate all the tips and info to help prepare as much as possible. Thank you for your service as well.
I barely remember this. The rappel tower with a Swiss sweat and munter hitch? I just took up rappelling again, damn near shit my pants. No joke when you do it solo as a senior citizen and build all the anchors etc yourself.
This was a good life experience, that was than, this is now. I don't stop, I move forward in something.
Use that GI Bill for College etc. Move forward in something.
I second your comments. I did get a Bachelor's and an advanced degree. Also took up rock climbing, scuba diving and sky diving. Now in my 70s I can't even walk up a hill without getting knee pain.
Great video!
Graduated in 78 and it still looks the same. Plat 1097. DI's SSGT Arbo, SGGT Pearson, SGT Solar and CPL Dauchman. What is with the sneakers? We ran and did PT in our boots lol. Semper Fi.
A new addition to the brotherhood, but I'm proud to come aboard. (Mike Company)
January 27th, 2020 was the night I stepped on those fateful yellow prints. Truly a night to remember until I die. Semper Fidelis.
Sam O - Welcome aboard Devil Dog! August 1980 was when I stepped foot in the yellow Marine Corps footprints. 🦶 Semper Fi, Do or Die, Marine for Life! 😎👍🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
The grinder is much smaller than it was when I was there in 1964. I looks like about half of it has been lost to car parking.
my favorite was the night marching on the deck, loved the sound
i've heard a couple of stories of recruits panicking and running onto the airport runway.
😂
Thanks..brings back so many memories..boot camp February to May 1982
37 years ago for me. Feels like yesterday. I found o e of MT Junior DIs on Facebook. He still remembered me. Probably cause I could run, swim and drill really well, but mostly because I was having fun in boot camp. Call me a sadist😁
Looks different was there 1969 plt 2079 we were old school marines semi fi
January 12, 1970 Platoon 2007. Semper Fi!
Keith Popko those dann old hot quansit huts
Yup. At ITR there was a guy directly across from me who had a radio. Because of the rounded corrugated overhead when he turned it on at night it was like it was playing right next to me.
Stfu Boot
Thanks for the video. I graduated 30 Dec 87. I would love to go back and see it all.
No prob! Semper
Awesome man, watched it till the end very informative
+javier dorcas Nice, glad you got a little something out of it lol
Thanks for the video. This takes me back. Graduated MCRD SD with Kilo Co. Back in 98.
We called it the "Slide for Life" back then.
Great video very detailed 👍🙌🙌
My son will graduate this August 30 2019.
Semper Fi
@@TheSnyds YESS 🙌🙌
HOTEL HELL!!!
Good video my man! I stepped on the prints Feb 20th, 1976. Semper Fi brother!
Thank you for the tour. Also thank you for your service sir. 🇺🇸
Markus Hendren Your welcome, and thanks for supporting!
I' ll never forget those quonsonh huts in '69. They were hot in the day in summer and cold at night. No ac and not even fans. Had at Pendelton also in ITR.
ayyye that's my company practicing graduation
Piece of Bread Haha nice!
1966. Boot camp was shortened to 8 weeks due to Vietnam. We lived in Quonset Huts and tents.
Haha, I picked up with Echo Co on October 16 2017. I think I saw my prac hat in the back of a platoon.
Platoon 137..graduated Sept. 1964. Never forget the whole experience
Oohrah Devil
Here in August 1958. Platoon 277. Completely housed in quansett huts on airport side of the grinder.
My platoon was housed in the same area. I heard most of the huts are gone and the remaining ones are a museum. Live in SoCal, passed MCRD many times on my way to continuing education classes but have never returned for a visit. Many decades ago the rifle range land, Camp Mathews, was sold to UCSD. If you drive on the old PCH you can still see stone remnants of the huts. Now shooting range is Camp Evans and can be seen from the 101. Air conditioned quarters, LOL.
Hell no I don't miss it! I do miss all the friends I made though in the USMC after boot. I am 65 years old and still think of those guys from time to time. I was very lucky though because after boot I was stationed at MCAS El Toro. El Toro is not around any longer but it was a great duty station. We use to joke that being at El Toro was like being in Marine Corps lite. I remember the morning after I was discharged we all went off base to a nice restaurant. After we ate we went out to the parking lot to say our good byes. Need les to say there lots of tears. Semper Fi everyone!
Quarterdeck Commando!! Getting Smoked like a $2 Tijuana Stogie!! My Senior Drill Instructor shaved off one half of his mustache and Smoked anyone who laughed. Which was most of us. Damn that shit was funny.
Last year, 2023 i visited MCRD San Diego on my 50th Graduating Anniversary. Graduated 19 July 1973 Platoon 2044......."the change is forever"
Other videos taken of new recruits show them on the yellow footprints and then they get rushed into their "contraband room." You know, that room with the red open top box structures and the white mesh bags and everything. And then they went to the barber shop.
Graduated from MCRD San Diego in 2002. PLT 2117 Echo Company.
Semper fi to my fellow Marines past and present. Rah!
On 16 July 1976 we graduated in front of the base auditorium not in the middle of the grinder in front of bleechers.
I'm glad that when I went to MCRD San Diego 1990. I really didn't know what to expect. There was a kind of mystical about it. Now, with RUclips there isn't that er of mystery anymore.
I have not returned to MCRD SD since grad day 08-14-1992 fox Co. plt 2035 2nd battalion
I went to Bootcamp on Parris Island stood on the Yellow Footprints on May 15, 2023. Got injured and graduated Bootcamp Dec 8th, 2023
That Squad bay didn't exist when I was at MCRD 47 years ago! Landed on the yellow footprints July 12th, 1971. Platoon 3074. There were a lot of ww2 building when I was there. it was hot as hell, and we were in the old metal Quanset huts by the airport. Close order drill two hours a day with M-14s . No such think back then as cell phones, social media, fan-fare, etc. lots of fights, and the DI's used to punch guys. No P.C. Graduated in front of the theatre sept, 28th, 1971. My Friend went to Vietnam, but I went through Sea School, Graduated in 1972, stationed Mare Island. Calif.
Yup, sounds familiar. Platoon 2007, January 12, 1970.
Real Marine Corps boot camp.......
@ Keith hard to believe we went through there around same time. They only have 4 quanset huts left. I must of walked San Clemente a thousand times. Different world and corps when we were in. I think better times too! Take care brother.
Semper Fi, Jack, Semper Fi.
Oh yeah, I remember marching from Receiving Barracks to the Q huts. When we got to the area I heard something hitting metal. Turns out it was a recruit thrown against a locker. Oops, my thought was I made a mistake and should've stayed in school.
So I've got a question. I haven't set foot in MCRD San Diego since 2017 after graduating. Now that I'm finally back and stationed in Camp Pendleton, I have an urge to visit some old memories. What are the do's and don't's when visiting MCRD? I was told that when visiting, you're not allowed to be on the recruit side and must stay on the Marine side. Am I able to walk around anywhere on MCRD, disregarding the training courses for the recruits, and not get scolded for it?
It was interesting to look around the Depot.
I went thru Boot camp in '77 !
Platoon 3021 Senior Drill Instructor SSGT Ward
Haven't gone back, but would love to, if my health holds out.
Always wonder if the dent in one of the drain pipes in front of the Barracks is still there ?
Got pushed from behind, by some Shitbird after being told to get inside after formation, and struck the drain pipe with my forearm !
Proud to say I put a Hell of a dent in that pipe !
Cost me Marine Barracks Duty, as I was fixing to beat his ass once inside, until the house mouse jumped on my back !
He ended up on the floor as I threw him over my shoulder !
I can still see the SSGT running towards me, screaming my name, and telling me to hault, as he grabbed my windpipe to get me to stop !
Ended up with Office Hours ! ( NJP )
And as I said lost Marine Barracks Duty at Rota Spain !
Instead, got to hump 81mm Mortars all over the Hills of Pendleton !
And I mean all over !
We thought we were Mountain Goats !
Funny now, but it wasn't funny then !
It's been 43 years since I left Pendleton, and often wondered if I should have stayed ?
Especially after the Marine Barracks Bombing in Beirut, killing 241 of my Brothers !
I never knew just how connected I was to the Corps until that happened !
It felt like someone hit me with a sledge hammer !
I'll tell you that this esprit de corps is real !
It's deeply ingrained in you, with each breath you take as a Marine !
There is no Greater Fighting Force !
GOD BLESS US ALL
SEMPER FI
'76 -'80
1/7 WEAPONS CO
81's Camp San Mateo
Division Champs
8:23- I have a memory from that spot, looking at an airplane taking off and wishing to hell I was on it. 😆
Yo Chris i was just searching bootcamp videos cuz i miss mcrd and you popped up 😂 good shit tho bro
Thats funny 😂😂
Landed at SAN Dec 1975. MCRD-SD was the first time anyone ever called me a "maggot". Wasn't even off the bus yet, lol. From the yellow footprints to your last day on the parade deck, every second is worth it. You'll see and hear stuff you dare not repeat (until after graduation) and its all worth it. Work hard. Keep your nose clean. Question nothing because know nothing. They build Marines here and do it better than anyone else on earth. SF.
9:05
SSGT Crooks - 3 RTB, India Co. the Chief Drill Instructor
Scared the living crap out of me.
oh man you had SSGT Crook as a CDI aswell?
Yup
Stepped on those yellow footprints almost a year ago, June 26th 2017
TheGamerJoe22 hey bro I’m trying to get ready for the marines. Just trying to lose weight before I go in
Set goals and go get it!
The Snyds thanks dude I WILL be a marine in the next coming year or so
@@Hostilenative23 Make sure you cap Marine its a title haha
Im going in soon, does the stairway to heaven still have paddin on it incase you fall?
MCRD San Diego. December 2nd, 2019
What was really cool is Cpl Kyle carpenter was eating chow at the chow hall for the marine Corps birthday
Thats awesome. A true human being
July 1997 mighty Mike! 3113. Recruit Green! Senior drill instructor staff sergeant Gilmer! Drill instructor Staff Sgt Seguin! Drill instructor staff sergeant Emner! Drill instructor Sergeant ivy! Your right you never forget. My Squad Bay was the first building in front of parking lot. If you facing parade deck. Building to the right!
I stepped on those same yellow footprints on March 20th, 2011.
MCRD San Diego
Day one for me was August 23rd, 1988. Became a Marine on November 9, 1988.
Best decision I’ve ever made in my 51 years on this planet. Semper Fi.
Semper Fi brother
I love going there I feel like I'm back at home! I tell my son this was daddy first home in San Diego.
Rahhh I graduated may 31st 2019 wouldn’t go back love it in the infantry
I graduated two weeks ago some nights it still feels like I’m there
Parris Island June 10th 2019 is when I shipped out but at 4 in the morning on June 11th 2019 is when I stepped on the footprints. I’m out now
MCRD. July 29, 2001. Was In bootcamp week 7. On 9-11
Life changing
I really do miss the Marine Corps. If i could start all over again i would do it. I didn’t get a dishonorable discharge, never got NJP’ed, never busted own, never had any medical problems, never in the pork chop platoon, i actually enjoyed company, battalion, regimental pt on fridays especially when we ran those Pendleton hills, sounding off over all the rest of the companies. I completed my enlistment. I just regret not taking advantage of everything the Marine Corps had to offer. And also I would have taken it easy on the alcohol lol.
Great video! Alpha Co. Dec 1990 Hollywood Marine! Yut!!!!
Started bootcamp in August 13th, 2018 and was a hell of a experience good times, shit times, funny ass times, and embracing the suck times but overall the experience of bootcamp is something I will never forget especially at the top of the Reaper
We had family day on Sunday a week before graduation back in the 1980s