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Marine Corps Knowledge

Becoming a Marine takes more than hard work, sweat, and rifle marksmanship. It means being educated on the history, customs and courtesies, rank structure, and operational guidelines of the Marine Corps. Recruit training is balanced between physical fitness, close-order drill, and classroom time where recruits begin to learn “Marine Corps Knowledge.”

Recruits are issued a handbook that Drill Instructors refer to as “recruit knowledge,” but learning about the Corps and how to be a better Marine is a career-long process. On this page, we will list a great deal of what you’ll be expected to learn as a United States Marine Corps recruit. But there’s no way we could list everything. 

Click on the articles below to learn what Marine Corps Knowledge recruits are expected to know and memorize during basic training. You can get a head start here before even getting to the yellow footprints!

Recent Marine Corps Knowledge Articles

How has the Coronavirus changed Marine Boot Camp?
Marine Boot Camp

How the Coronavirus has Changed Marine Boot Camp

Updated on June 9th, 2022 — the 14 day quarantine is no longer in effect. Recruits must only wear masks while at dental and medical clinics. However, should a Coronavirus variant or another pandemic come along, the following information may help you prepare for a

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What can you bring to Marine boot camp? The corps will issue everything you need.
Marine Boot Camp

What Can You Bring to Marine Boot Camp? A Complete Guide

Many future recruits ask: what can you bring to Marine Boot Camp? The short answer is that the Marine Corps will issue you everything you need, including underwear and running shoes (which will now be referred to as “go-fasters”). But there are certain things you will want to include.

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Marines practice martial arts onboard a naval ship
About Boot Camp

What Does Semper Fi Mean to the Marine Corps?

Every Marine knows what Semper Fidelis means, and it’s not just about loyalty to country or unit. It is a code of honor since adopted in 1883 by Colonel Charles McCawley, 8th Commandant of the Marine Corps. Semper Fidelis is a Latin phrase meaning “always

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A Marine fires their M16 rifle at cardboard targets
Knowledge

4 Weapons Safety Rules | Marine Corps Firearm Safety

Firearm safety is paramount to a United States Marine during the entire length of their enlistment or career, regardless of their MOS, or military occupation specialty. And it begins in boot camp when you learn the Marine Corps’ 4 weapons safety rules. As a Marine

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Get the Recruit Training Schedule

Before you leave, download the Recruit Training Matrix for future reference!

The recruit training matrix is a simple guide to Marine Corps Boot Camp events week by week. Enter your email and we’ll send it to you for free. 

marine corps recruit training matrix