My Son Is Graduating From Marine Boot Camp!

Terminology to learn for
San Diego MCRD Graduation


Watch Your Step!
Respect the Marine Corps grounds during your visit to the Depot. Please do not walk on the grass. Please do not walk across the Parade Deck.


Family Day
The day prior to graduation with activities planned for families of graduating Marines. Your new Marine will escort you with his left arm to reserve his right hand for saluting higher-ranking Marines.



Museum Courtyard
Meeting place for families just prior to the motivational run. A Marine will give a welcome and preliminary information for family members.


Motivational Run
The final run for the company of recruits. A milestone in your Recruit's training. Many of the commanding officers run with the recruits for the Motivational Run.


Liberty
Time-off from training for graduating Marines. Recruits must remain on the Depot during Liberty. From 1:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. on Family Day for the recruit to visit with family and friends.


Parade Deck
Huge area of asphalt where recruits practice drills and marching. Formal ceremonies are held on the Parade Deck. DO NOT walk across the Parade Deck under any circumstances.


Molly
Molly is the bulldog Mascot of MCRD San Diego. Molly lives on the Depot. Her care alternates between several Marines.