Five days inside The Basic School at Marine Corps Base Quantico in Virginia was a rare opportunity for Chief video correspondent Graham Flanagan to observe the rigorous seven-month training program that new United States Marine Corps officers go through. During this time, he witnessed five different companies going through various stages of training, each with its unique challenges.
One unique aspect of the training is that Marine Corps officers are sometimes required to play the roles of enlisted Marines. This hands-on experience allows them to better understand the tasks that they will be commanding their subordinates to perform in the future. Through this, officers gain a comprehensive understanding of each role within the Marine Corps and how it contributes to the overall success of their unit.
The final test for these students is known as The War. During this intense exercise, students are divided into opposing forces and must use their strategic skills to battle for control of a simulated city. This final test pushes students to their limits and prepares them for the challenges they may face in real combat situations. It’s an opportunity for them to demonstrate their leadership abilities and decision-making skills under pressure.
What sets The Basic School apart from other military training programs is its diversity. In addition to American students, it also hosts service members from other countries such as Greece, Bahamas, and Netherlands. This unique environment provides a platform for international collaboration and learning, strengthening relationships between different military forces and promoting a shared understanding of military strategies and tactics.
Overall, The Basic School is a rigorous seven-month training program that challenges new United States Marine Corps officers physically, academically, and tactically. It prepares them for leadership roles in real combat situations while also fostering international collaboration and understanding between different military forces.
