How to Qualify to Be in the Marine Corps
The Marine Corps began in 1775 and is a branch of the Navy. The Marines are a mobile amphibious assault force that are a rapid response team carrying out foreign and domestic policy objectives. Oftentimes, the Marines are first on the scene and charged with meeting challenges that require sea and land missions. Not everyone can become a Marine, though, and there are specific qualifications required before being able to incorporate the "Semper Fidelis" motto into your life. The motto is Latin for "Always Faithful."
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Instructions
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Enlist in the Marine Corps if you are between 17 and 29 years of age, a U.S. citizen and have earned or are working toward your high school diploma. Most Marines serve through enlistment and are usually required to provide the Marines with a four-year commitment.
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Enter the officer's program if you are a college graduate or working toward your college degree. Future Marines still in college will become members of the Platoon Leaders class, while college graduates will enter the officer candidate course. You may also become a member of the Marines through a campus NROTC program.
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Enroll in the U.S. Naval Academy as an alternate path to becoming an officer. Before you are eligible for enrollment in the naval academy, you must receive a nominating letter from a member of the U.S. congress. Midshipmen in the U.S. Naval Academy are eligible, though not guaranteed, to become Marine Corps naval officers. Upon graduation, select midshipmen will receive a commission as a second lieutenant in the corps and will train at The Basic School in Quantico, Virginia.
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Consider the Marine Corps Reserves. The reserves allow Marines to maintain a career or pursue an education while serving their country. Reserve Marines receive the same training as their fellow active-duty Marines, but are able to do so at a reserve unit near home or work.
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Tips & Warnings
A Marine Corps recruitment office is able to provide future enlistees and their families information on the enlistment process and life in the corps. There is no obligation to join after talking to a recruitment officer.
References
- Photo Credit Marine Standing Proud image by aqbenkie from Fotolia.com
