President-Elect Rich Hill told us about his experience at Marine Corps boot camp; 3 months, but 6 total months starting with the recruitment process. The recruits arrive in the evening time to make them nervous. Rich went to Georgia first and then was sent to California. When the recruits arrive, all their personal items are taken away for safe keeping and their heads are shaved – even if they previously shaved them! All the recruits are screamed at as part of the process. They are issued everything they need at boot camp when they arrive including fatigues, boots, and tennis shoes. The first week is going through the processes and getting recruits set up for platoons. First month was the hardest as they are not used to being yelled out and taking orders. There are lots of physical activities and they burn about 10,000 calories a day. The recruits learn drills including marching in the first month. After first month, get to swim week, where there is swimming test fully clothed. Some recruits come in not knowing how to swim even though it’s the Marines! Next is training like hiking, camping, arms training, basic infantry tactics. Marksmanship is very important – aren’t yelled at as much during that initial training. A Marine should be accurate at 500 meters. They do hiking in the dark. One of the last things to get through – a three day “Crucible” – simulated battlefield scenario. Rich went 78 miles during his three days. After graduate – get to sleep for 10 hours – first time during boot camp. Congrats to Rich for making it through the grueling process to become a Marine!