Jimmy asked E.Michael Helms:

I am a freshman in high school and have decided to join the marine corps straight after senior year. What in your opinion was the hardest part about boot camp that you remember?

E.Michael Helms Jimmy, thanks for contacting me. That's a tough question. The Corps and its training methods have changed quite a bit since I went through boot camp at PI in January-March 1967. Back then our drill instructors were "heavy handed" -- meaning they weren't shy about using "physical therapy" (meaning roughing us up physically) on us "boots." They also used enough "cuss words" to fill a dictionary, often berating a boot nose-to-nose. So, my answer back then would be the mental toughness required to survive the situation. They had a very good reason for their actions: learn to obey instantly and without question. That played a huge role in surviving combat.
They physical requirements were also demanding. But I was in good shape (I had played football and baseball all through school) and that wasn't as bad as the mental stuff they threw at us. However, now I hear the DIs aren't allowed to use physical violence, or vile language (although I'd bet some of that still occurs). And now they have the "Crucible" which I hear is very demanding both mentally and physically.
So, prepare yourself physically and mentally before you arrive at boot camp. And if you go to Parris Island and should hear a distant "Sir, YES SIR!" wailing in the dark of night, that could be me--boot camp never completely leaves you, and you never completely leave it!
Good luck, and Semper Fi!

--Michael

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