How to Survive Coast Guard Boot Camp

Boot camp for the U.S. Coast Guard is challenging, both mentally and physically. The seven-and-a-half weeks you spend at Cape May, New Jersey wears you out, changes your life and makes you an integral part of the domestic maritime and military service that protects U.S. citizens and its waterways. Start on the right foot as you begin your Coast Guard career.

Instructions

1. Complete the process of interviews, testing, medical examinations and background checks. Once approved, you decide on your enlistment date. New recruits ship out for Cape May, New Jersey, on Tuesdays.

2. Get into the best physical condition of your life. In Week 4 of boot camp, you'll take the physical training test and be expected to meet Coast Guard standards. You must pass the swimming test, so work some pool time into your daily fitness routine.

3. As a Seaman recruit, address everyone as "Sir" or "Ma'am" until instructed otherwise. Unless spoken to, it is best to remain silent.

4. Rely on the handbook "The Helmsman" for what to expect at basic training. "The Helmsman" also lists what you may bring to boot camp. Bringing any contraband items (check the list) starts your career with a demerit and lots of negative attention.

5. Get a jump on your boot camp studies by memorizing the rank and insignia of all USCG officers and enlisted personnel. Know nautical terms and recite the "11 General Orders of a Sentry," and be familiar with the history and traditions of the USCG.

6. Remember that boot camp lasts seven-and-a-half weeks, the first several days of which is in-processing and paperwork. Tell yourself you can tolerate anything for that long. Join the ranks of the elite that have survived boot camp, and be on your way to life in the Coast Guard.

Tips & Warnings

• The first half-week of boot camp is "in-processing," paperwork and the like. The final week is "out-processing," job processing and more paperwork.

• Basic training for the USCG is as mentally challenging as it is physically challenging.

• You arrive at Cape May on a Tuesday. Graduation is always held on a Friday.

• The shouting and barking of orders starts when your bus pulls in at Cape May. Company Commanders have only one volume: loud.