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"Battalion" & "Force" RECON
The training
paths for Marines in both RECON units are similar. The RECON Marine’s advanced training focuses on a platoon's likely
missions while deployed, so Battalion and Force RECON Marines basically differ only in who their boss is - either the Battalion
Commander or the Task Force Commander.
Initial training consists of Marine Recruit Training, and the School of Infantry
which is the standard training where EVERY Marine learns to be a rifleman. Recently, changes in recruiting have enabled young
recruits with little experience to attend the RECON Indoctrination Program (RIP). Students with the MOS 0321 RECON Marine
are then assigned to the Basic Recon Course (BRC). The new Marine will be placed in BRC with Marines with several years experience
as well. But upon successful completion of the BRC, all Marines report to their assigned recon unit & receive various
professional, technical and tactical training. Ask your recruiter about the RECON MOS Option if interested in becoming a RECON
Marine.
Marine Recon INDOC 1st Force Recon's current "indoc" or RIP is a 48 hr. evolution. Previously, in
order to even get invited to attend the indoctrination course, you must have between 3-4 years of experience in the field
and should be scoring at least 285 on the Marine Corp PFT: As with any Special Operation units, you must be a stellar Marine
with a near flawless record. Recently, the new program mentioned above will allow highly motivated new recruits a chance to
attend RIP. As long as they are physically above average and are able to reach the scores above (275 enlisted – 285
officer) they can attend after bootcamp. Below scores represent a perfect 300 on the USMC PFT:
3 mile run (18:00min 100pts)
20 pullups (dead hang) 100pts
80 situps/2min. 100pts. You will
be required to perform two obstacle courses in under 2:00 each time, swim 500 meters in full cammies in 17:00, and other fun
water activities. 10 mile ruck with 50lbs pack in under 2 hours is also graded.
It helps to prepare months in advance
with swimming at least 4-5 times a week. Wear cammies and fins at least once a week too. Minimum swim practice time should
be an hour daily.
You will also be required to perform what is called a Level Test which is:
Max Push ups 2min.
Max Sit ups 2min.
Max Pull ups 2min.
Max Flutter Kicks 2min.
Max 8 Count pushups
in 2:00
Max scissors in 2:00 Your calisthenics workouts should consist of the above exercises performed every
other day for a total of 3-4 times per week. The day of PT rest will help your muscles recover and be able to gain more reps
in two minutes. Also practice perfect form but do each of the exercises as fast as you can. Speed and endurance is your goal.
Running is also a major part of INDOC. You should run at least 4-5 times per week and perform a rucksack run once
a week in order to prepare for the following:
Forced March (or "Hump") for 20 miles @ 4-5mph
Rucksack Run 3-4 miles timed (with 50 lb) After
repeating the Marine PFT again you get to interview with the Team Leader and Company CO/XO. You may physically make it but
still not get selected. Usually, it is attitude and teamwork difficulties that get you rejected at this phase of INDOC.
Once
selected, the Marines are assigned Recon Indoctrination Platoon. This is similar to going back to bootcamp. The Marines have
only supervised liberty, physical training and classes at all time of the day and night at the Amphibious Reconnaissance School
(ARS) in Little Creek, VA or Coronado, CA. Once the Marine finishes ARS, he is a Reconnaissance Marine.
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