Tips for getting through basic?

[chris]

We get a lot of questions asking for tips to get through basic. Anyone got any great tips to share?

[devildogwifey]

Just remember that your DI's or DS's are there to help you. They're going to be hard on you, they're going to push you. Boot camp is not a cake walk. The most important thing to remember is that you have to come together with your platoon. It's not about finding yourself, it's about going beyond yourself and accepting that you CAN'T get through it without the person standing next to you in formation.

There are two quotes that my mom sent me off with when I shipped out, the first is from Frank McGee who said "Welcome the task that makes you go beyond yourself." the other "Strength does not come from physical capacity. It comes from an indominatable will." ~Mohamad Ghandi

[john boland]

The key to surviving basic training is to do what your told to do as hard as you can do it and as fast as you can do it. When you do this, it takes the focus off of you, the individual, and that means less time for the Seniors to find fault with your game. Whatever they tell you to do, no matter how stupid it is, give 133 1/3 percent. Not after the first day, the first week, or even several weeks, they will eventually realize you can't be broken and life becomes a little easier if there is such a thing during basic. And always remeber, you will p*** out before you die. Good Luck

John Jay Boland
Clemson University '89
USMC Veteran

[patriotpride16t]

My father gave me some advice before I went off to Basic. He told me, "Do not take it personally". When a DI is up in your grill, take it in stride, its just business. It is done for a reason. Its a small introduction in dealing with stress. Also, be prepared in dealing with the fact that whatever you do in Basic will be wrong. (Even when its right!) What I mean is, say the DI's come around for inspection, they will find something wrong. Again, don't worry. Just another lesson in dealing with stress.

Just be gung-ho, especially when they "drop" you! (Lingo referring to making you do push-ups.) Be prepared to do ALOT of the "Front-leaning rest position". Keep you ears and eyes open and your mouth shut. Do not volunteer for anything while in Basic. You'll be considered an arse-kisser by your fellow recruits. So don't do it! Don't worry, the DI's will volunteer you. (Ha,Ha) It will be the most exciting time of your life and/or you may feel like it was a mistake to join. You will meet people from all over the country and you'll be suprised by the friends you make. It might be with someone you would never consider being friends with "back on the block". They are the people yo will never forget for the rest of your life!

When you graduate, it will be the most satisfying, and proudest moment of your life! I guarantee it! "Hoo-aah!
Good luck!

[RP of Marines]

Motivation!