Meps: What Marines Need To Know Before Enlisting

Enlisting in the Marine Corps is a significant decision that can impact your life in many ways. Before making the commitment, it's essential to understand what the Marine Corps is, what it represents, and what it demands from its recruits. The Marine Corps is known for its elite fighting force, rich history, and esprit de corps. However, the journey to becoming a Marine is not for the faint of heart. Here's what you need to know before enlisting.

The Marine Corps is a branch of the United States Armed Forces that specializes in ground combat operations. Marines are trained to be versatile, agile, and deadly. They operate in a variety of environments, from deserts to jungles, and from ships to cities. As a Marine, you will be expected to embody the Corps' values of honor, courage, and commitment. You will be pushed to your limits, physically and mentally, to prepare you for the challenges of combat.

One of the first steps in becoming a Marine is visiting a Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS). MEPS is a two-day process that assesses your physical and mental fitness for military service. During this time, you will undergo medical screenings, take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test, and complete paperwork to enlist.

Before heading to MEPS, it's crucial to prepare yourself physically and mentally. You should start a workout routine that focuses on building endurance, strength, and agility. The Marine Corps requires recruits to pass a physical fitness test (PFT) that includes pull-ups, crunches, and a 3-mile run. You should also study for the ASVAB test to ensure you score well in the areas that interest you.

Once you arrive at MEPS, you will undergo a medical screening that includes a physical exam, medical history, and blood tests. The medical screening is designed to identify any health issues that could prevent you from serving in the Marine Corps. If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, you may be disqualified from enlisting.

What to Expect at MEPS

The MEPS process typically takes two days to complete. On the first day, you will arrive early in the morning and begin the processing procedure. This includes:

Filling out paperwork and forms
Taking the ASVAB test
Undergoing medical screenings
Meeting with a recruiter to discuss your enlistment options

On the second day, you will continue with the medical screenings and meet with a career counselor to discuss your job options in the Marine Corps.

Physical Fitness Test (PFT)

The PFT is a crucial part of the MEPS process. The test consists of three events: pull-ups, crunches, and a 3-mile run. The scores from each event are combined to determine your overall PFT score. To pass the PFT, you must score a minimum of 135 points, with at least 40 points in each event.

In addition to the PFT, you will also undergo a body fat percentage test to ensure you meet the Marine Corps' weight standards.

Life as a Marine

Once you enlist in the Marine Corps, you will embark on a journey that will challenge you in ways you never thought possible. You will attend boot camp, also known as recruit training, where you will learn the skills and values necessary to become a Marine. Boot camp is 13 weeks long and is divided into three phases: red, yellow, and blue.

During boot camp, you will learn about Marine Corps history, leadership, and protocol. You will also receive training in first aid, combat skills, and marksmanship. The days are long and grueling, with recruits waking up at 5:00 am for physical training and going to bed at 10:00 pm.

After boot camp, you will attend the School of Infantry (SOI), where you will receive training in your Military Occupational Specialty (MOS). The MOS is your job in the Marine Corps, and it can range from infantry to administration.

As a Marine, you will be expected to embody the Corps' values of honor, courage, and commitment. You will be part of a brotherhood that is unlike any other, and you will be expected to uphold the highest standards of conduct and integrity.

Benefits of Being a Marine

Being a Marine comes with many benefits, including:

Education assistance: The Marine Corps offers education assistance to help you pay for college or vocational training.
Career advancement: The Marine Corps offers a wide range of career opportunities, from leadership to technical skills.
Travel: As a Marine, you will have the opportunity to travel the world and experience different cultures.
Healthcare: The Marine Corps offers comprehensive healthcare benefits to its members and their families.
Retirement: The Marine Corps offers a pension plan that allows you to retire after 20 years of service.

In conclusion, enlisting in the Marine Corps is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. Before making the commitment, it's essential to understand what the Marine Corps is, what it represents, and what it demands from its recruits. If you're willing to put in the hard work and dedication, the Marine Corps can offer you a rewarding and challenging career that will last a lifetime.

Marine Corps MEPS Gallery