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Subject: SP reader joining the USMC
Stranger Danger    10/27/2009 6:45:04 PM
Hey ya'll, I've been a long time reader, but first time poster. Right now, I'm going through the process of applying to the Marine Corp Officer Program (PLC). I thought I'd ask you guys for any advice you could give me, just to make a smoother transition into the Marines. Being the obvious FNG is not high on my wish list, so I really would appreciate any advice; Don't assume anything is too trivial to include. I really appreciate the help Stranger Danger (Mike)
 
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ambush       10/27/2009 9:39:35 PM

  Ask questions.  If you knew everything you would not be there for training. Drop any preconceived ideas you may have.   You will be expected however, to remember it once you have been taught.

When you get out to the FMF:

The reverse of that is after a certain amount of time you will be expected to have opinions and ideas and expected to , respectfully express, them.

I guess I can also add that you will be given text book answers to certain problems even tactical.  In reality there is no text book solution just certain principles like the principles of patrolling: reconnaissance, security control and common sense. Lean troop leading procedures; how to write and give warning orders and op orders really well.  Understand the importance of suppression and cover.

Don?t be afraid to ask your NCOs for help that is what they are there for.  There are, like everything else good NCOs and not so good, learn quickly to separate the wheat from the chaff.  Do not be afraid to delegate you are not superman and cannot do it all.

Good luck and Semper Fi

 
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SCCOMarine       11/21/2009 10:19:43 PM
Have you settle on your 3 Career Field choices & there order yet?
 
If you plan to be 03 or another Combat Arms Field be sure to show plenty of initiative.  Lack of initiative & assertiveness is a quick way to a support billet.
 
The little things count, learn (& understand) the simple 14 Leadership traits use them as the lense to try & understand exactly what your instructors want at any given time.
 
Little things count.  Remember leadership is a wave that flows btwn autocratic to democratic, you will constantly be placed in leadership scenarios, if you learn to master this flow to gain input fr/ your team but show decisive leadership you will go a long way in impressing your instructors.
 
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