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A PARENT'S GUIDE TO THE MARINE CORPS

At the Graduation Ceremony you'll feel many emotions, such as pride and respect. Your son or daughter is now a part of something bigger and has the opportunity to do something more significant than many people ever dare to do. This is a day you will never forget. Your son or daughter is now a Marine.

You should plan on attending the graduation ceremony and the events that surround it, such as the morning colors and reviewing the motivational run. Each Recruit Training Depot has specific rules and regulations. Before attending the graduation ceremony, be sure to get specific information from the Recruit Depot (Parris Island or San Diego).

In some cases, you can obtain a video or DVD of the graduation ceremony. Often there will be other areas of interest and a variety of activities to get involved with, such as historical displays and bookstores.

While graduation day is one of the proudest moments for every Marine, this day is only the beginning of what promises to be a great future - for your son or daughter as well as yourself.

Helpful information regarding graduation day is available on the website of each Marine Corps Recruit Depot.

Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego:
http://www.mcrdsd.usmc.mil/

Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island:
http://www.mcrdpi.usmc.mil/

Graduation
Video transcript

Frequently Asked Questionsred arrow

Question: 
What happens after Recruit Training?
Answer: 
After graduation, Marines receive 10 days' leave. They then return to continue training at the School of Infantry/Marine Combat Training before attending training in their Military Occupational Specialty, or MOS.