One distinguishing factor of the Marine Corps boot camp is the length of the training. It takes 13 weeks to complete, where as all the other American boot camps do not exceed 9 weeks. Boot camp for the Marines is broken down into three phases. The first phase consists of the basics of basics which are formation, marching, fitness, Marine Corps history, rules, regulations, and yes even speaking. In order to learn these key foundations there will be difficult physical training and non stop classroom instruction. Classroom instruction will continue throughout the entire boot camp experience.

Phase Two is broken down even further into two sections. Section One lasts two weeks, which is dedicated to marksmanship. Every Marine is a rifleman this being the case section one of their training is a very crucial event for their graduation. Section Two the final two weeks of the second phase, is called field training. This name is given because there is no time spent in a bunker; recruits live in tents for this section and sleep in sleeping bags. Including the camp like living conditions section two contains many obstacles courses, combat training, and the gas chamber. On top of all of those intense processes is the crucible described earlier, the greatest challenge the recruits have faced yet and will face for the rest of their lives.

Finally the last phase probably the easiest part of a recruits training begins, this includes tests, swim week, and work week. Phase Three is committed to buffering and fine tuning recruits training into future basically trained Marines. Again on top of all these events Drill Instructors work constantly to get their platoon ready for the Commanding General’s thorough over view as well as the Final Graduation Ceremony.