Semper Fi 1stSgt Crouch, i served in the Marine Corps between 1986-92. i have just recently watched ever video of yours. outstanding Marine you are. Is OCS conducted in pennsacola or in newport, rhode island? with all the base closures and re-alignments, its hard for us "old timers" to keep up with the military these days. again SEmper Fi.
@1968crs1 Warrior, thanks for the comments. Navy OCS closed down Pensacola in the summer of 2007 and relocated to Newport RI. Huge mistake from a training standpoint. Close order drill and good weather is paramount to developing the ultimate Warrior. Develop the discipline first, then you can make them miserable in cold weather.
@crouchje thanks for the info. so now that you are retired from military service, what do you do as a civilan? I bet nothing compares to what you did as a drill instructor.. To become an OCS drill instructor, di you first have to have experience as a DI at one of the MCRD's?
To be a DI at any college ROTC program (AMOI Program) or Navy OCS you must have a successful tour training enlisted recruits at either MCRD.
I am a Director of Facilities overseeing construction, maintenance, landscaping, security and environmental services for a hospital. It is an excellent career choice and one that suites me perfectly. As for nothing compares, well I have been very fortunate to have had several exciting career choices in life and love this one too.
I'm really struggling to choose between to commission USMC or USN. I'm a freshman engineering major. I know the Navy has a great engineering program, but I also like the idea of earning the USMC title. Any suggestions?
@poolie626 Many graduates of Navy OCS felt cheated when they did not find that consistent professionalism of the OCS experience and specifically the competence and leadership of the Marine DI’s was not representative of the typical senior enlisted. All of the officers I trained have said they enjoyed their Navy career but I assure you, if you join the Marine Corps you will be forever proud of the fact that Marines enforce standards that other services wish for but do not mandate.
@crouchje thanks a lot for the insight. amazing command voice btw, i had dreams of becoming a D.I. one day, wish i could commission and be a D.I., that's be the perfect career. anyway, is it really true the Marines prepare you for career once you leave the Corps? I only ask because, if I join the Marines, I wouldn't be doing anything related to my career field, but I feel it'd balance out due to the leadership and experienced gained.
@poolie626 dont go marines just for a title. people will have respect for you no matter what branch you serve in. go whichever way you actually want to. i can tell you though that there is much more to do with engineering in the navy.
Gunnery Sergeant Crouch, I am an enlistee tof the USMC. I ship out on the 29th of this month to Parris Island. Is there anything you would recommend for me to keep a focus on during the transformation?
GSst, this officer candidate has a question. When you get promoted to Gunnery Sergeant, do you have to go to a specific school for that rank like Corporal's Course or Staff NCO school? It seems to me that every Gunny I have ever run in to has a certain distaste for everything. It's a common trait I see in all Marine Corps E-6's. Just curious!
@w47usmc There are leaderships schools for CPL's, SGT's, SSGT's and GYSGT's. As for a distaste for everything, not sure what you are speaking of there. However all good Marines have a hatred though for those who are non conformist, liberal, individualistic type people who happen to also wear the Marine uniform.
@crouchje Gunnery Sergeant, I shouldn't have used the word 'distaste.' It wasn't what I meant. It is my experience that every Marine E-6 that I meet has a very distinct mindset and way of carrying themselves, different from every other rank in the Marine Corps. It seems to come with the title of 'Gunny.' Thank you for your time GYSGT and your outstanding job of showing the rest of the world a little Marine Corps motivation!!
what GYSGT Crouch says in this speech is awesome. it not only applies to the candidates he is speaking to but it applies to everyday life. the ideas of never giving up and striving to be the best we can is applicable to everybody outside the military. great intro!
Was this recorded in front of Regiment at NAS Pensacola? Or outside of the Battalions? When I was a poopie in 1989, we were in Regiment the first few days.
Gunny, why are you wearing a smokey while training these Naval Officer Candidates but DIs who traing Marine Offficer candidates do not? Why do Naval Officer Candidates address you as "Sir" but Marine Officer Candidates address their DIs by their rank(Sgt, SSgt, etc.)? Did you have to serve as a DI training recruits on the Island or MCRD San Diego before getting to train Naval Officers? Are Naval Officers still trained by Marine DIs?
@19southpaw76 In 1969 the Marine Corps authorized DI's at NAS Pensacola to wear the campaign cover because they do the same job as enslited recruit DI's. Since 1980 all DI's assigned to AOCS and later Navy OCS had to be prior tour enslited DI's. These future naval officers will never be on a Marine promotion board or lead Marines, therefore the relationship is much different. I turned down Marine OCS for my third tour for many of these reasons. Marines still train Navy OCS candidates.
@4775josh Josh, inflection and delivery were developed by DI School and years of practice. The words of the speech were verbatim from the Senior Drill Instructor speech given to all Marine recruits with the words Marine replaced by Naval Officer or Shipmate. I plagurized!
He Gunny, how did you develop you introductory speech? Were you given a general outline when you started out, or did you just build it up after doing it enough times?
Say once my first four ends and I have the choice in becoming a drill instructor, do you have any advice upon entering drill instructor school rather than having good physical attributes? It's something I've been wanting to do in return of giving back to the Corps.
@HondaEvo6 Be passionate, if you lack passion for becoming a DI it will show in your performance both physical and academically. Contact me via my profile e-mail address please and I will share more.
It took me ten years to get my second ribbon, this was at the seventeen year mark. I was a DI during the first gulf war and 9/11 had not happened yet. Takes opportunity to get awards. My ribbon rack was normal for a Marine of 17 years back in 1997.
@crouchje - I entered the Marine Corps on April 25,1985 at P.I.S.C. and graduated on July 19,1985 with 3rd Battalion, H Co., Platoon 3049... Senior Drill Instructor SSGT. Parr, SGT. Pascoe, and SGT. Hernandez were my D.I.'s...I served 4 years Honorably and have been out over 20 years now, but I think about the Corps everyday...damn I miss the Camaraderie and Esprit de Corps! I also agree with you that rank and ribbons are harder to get in peacetime...Semper Fi Devil Dog!!
@marine4lyfe1985 - War Dog! Thanks for the opinion and reflection. Why don't you contact me via my personal E-mail listed under my profile 1stsgtcrouch@gmail.com
excuse me sergeant couch, are all the drill movements you trained them to do authorized movements by the navy? and must the NJROTC follow the style that you guys do?
Close Order Drill is taught from the Marine Corps drill manual at all programs that are run by Marines. The M-1 Garand rifle (best drill rifle ever) has been replaced by the M-16 at Navy OCS last year. Hope this answers your question. For all you old timers, yes; the M-1 rifle manual for order to port, port to order, and inspection arms was slightly modified for better appearance. Correct M-1 rifle manual has you sticking your elbows out like a clown instead of being tight to the body.
@crouchje haha, i always thought its bettter in than out, one more question, would you recommend any youtube videos to watch on military drill and exhibition, our NJROTC unit needs some fresh ideas and knowledge on how to do the moves the RIGHT way.
hey gunney could you become an ROTC instructor theres one in miami florida the name of the high school is feelix varela high school they desprately need an ROTC instructor it is navy let me know thanks vinnie
Thanks for the suggestion but Marines only have 3 or 5 years after retirement to slide into a JROTC job. I have a great career post retirement. Thank you for the compliments.
I did teach you Marines. During my day DI tours were two years each. I did two tours at PISC and requested a 3rd. I was told by Special Assignments no way. They offered me Marine OCS and I said “No Way, I would get in trouble, I am too intense”. Then they offered me Navy OCS which at the time was very heavy on close order drill, PT, and intensity. Think MCRD on steroids. Marine OCS is stressful but not from the DI’s, it is the program, PT and peer pressure which create stress.
First Sgt. Crouch, Could you please come to The University of Akron and knock some sense into some maggots? We have these damn hipsters here that don't know the meaning to not look homeless nor the reason why you wear a belt in their freaking pants. We need DI's to scare the living hell out of these boys and girls entering our society in the hopes that they can evade materialism and complete non sense living and focus on proper appearance and success.
Unfortunately there are not enough DI's nor a tolerant judicial system to allow DI's to do what they do best. I too was appalled living in a college town a few years ago and seeing what appeared to be the homeless attending school. Too bad our liberal hollywood elite, the music industry and the glamorization of failure has depleted from many the important quality of "Shame". A significant portion of society under 50 seem to feel no shame in their simple life choices.
He is a Senior Drill Instructor.. you can tell because he wears a black patent leather belt. Only Senior Drill Instructors wear that belt... Evan in Cammies Senior Drill instructors wear a black patent leather belt
Yes, it is a requirement to have a successful tour of duty as a Drill Instructor at one of the two boot camps before getting selected to train officer candidates.
@crouchje Thank you 1st Sgt. If I could take up a bit more of your time did you prefer MCRD duty or OCS and what is the main difference in the way you shape recruits vs. candidates? I'm just guessing, but it seems like recruits are told you signed on the dotted line and you're here until we're done with you while OCS is drop on request.
Yes, you must have at a minimum of one successful tour of duty at either MCRD. Most of us had four years training recruits prior to assignment to Navy OCS in the late 90's. Back then each tour of duty as a DI was two years.
Warrior, why have you not contacted me via my E-mail that is listed publicly on my profile? You owe me a chit for pain and a thousand word essay for failure to maintain connection with your DI.
its so wierd to see yall in Uniform back then 1stSgt before the war started...in a short 3.5 years ive racked up 9 ribbons/medals...not toot the horn so to speak just an observation. Semper Fi
Lcpl Clark, John
3/10 Battery I, 2nd Plt, 1st squad, 1st fireteam leader.
This will blow your mind, from 1980 - 1990 I had one ribbon, the good conduct. Back then there was no drill instructor ribbon so although I had already finsihed my first of three DI tours I was just a one ribbon Marine. By the time I had reached GYSGT in 1995 I was up to four or five ribbons. At the conclusion of nearly 24 years my ribbon rack only attained nine ribbons. Thanks for serving Marine!
First Sergeant Crouch, may I say Hoorah fellow Marine! I served from '95 - 2000 and was some best times of my life. Thanks to Youtube, and great Marines like yourself for putting videos like these on this website. Brings back memories. Went to Parris Island in 95' and listening to this speech just puts a smile on my face. Hoorah!
@sliver01 i have to say even though this looks interesting and i believe that i could do this and become a officer of the navy but a part of me is saying that i can not do it or wont like it and i recognize it as my fathers voice but I want to do it. I currently am finishing a masters in mental health and i am looking for a job sadly the job that are posted want 2 to five year of experience and i believe that the only way i will get that is through the navy
@CrimsomLeo the only thing I could suggest is that you follow your heart. I am sure, like even with me when I went through Marine enlisted recruit training; it was pretty tough and so will OCS be tough. However, the Navy will be a great way to gain experience, experience your looking for. Now, I can't say you should go in, I will never tell someone that, just follow your instincts of what will be the best path for you. Good luck!
@sliver01 sadly the officer recruiter in my area sadly told me that my masters was a waste of money since it is a master in mental health counseling. I was totally destroyed when told this.
MSgt Crouch - what day in training was this? Up in Newport, we got part of this speech by Candios on our first day and then a lot of it on Wakeup Wednesday, but it was with the whole class team.
This guy is awesome. He knows what he's doing for sure. His job is not have anyone drop out. Retention is key. You will always for your entire life remember what you learned from him.
Well formernavyflyboy let me tell you about the man you have just commented on. He did and still does "know what he's doing for sure" and being in his last OCS class I will remember what I learned from him for the rest of my life. But he did and still does not care about "retention". He always said if you don't have what it took then you needed to "take your life and go away". Only a few were "held to a higher standard" and have the honor of being "Crouch Trained". 5-4, 4-5, 4-4 !!!!
@formernavyflyboy Having had the privelage of being trained by this man (OCS 02-97), your first two sentences are truer than you can imagine. Your second point sadly borders on ridiculousness. It isn't about retention; it is about setting standards. Retention is not key. Weak, ineffective, and undisciplined candidates NEED to be identified and weeded out during training. He was fair, but those that couldn't live up to the standards were packed up and sent home, or more likely quit, as many did.
Attrition was the mission from the Marine DI perspective. Nobody deserves to be led by an officer who has not validated his commitment to the service with a gut check. I wanted to ensure that under the most adverse conditions there was no quit in them. In 1986 Col. Wesley Fox, Medal of Honor Recipient and former DI said I thought the old way was the way it should be. I washed out as many recruits as I could wash out. I thought that a good drill instructor didnt graduate very many.
@crouchje retention isnt good dude. if your a POS, why should the military retain u. problem in the military. if everyone except 1 guy fails out then they shouldnt have been officers
Never did understand why a Marine would train Naval Officers. Wouldn't another Naval Officer or Senior/Master Chief Petty Officer be more appropriate? Any enlightenment would be most appreciated
hes not just a marine, he is a Drill Instructor, even being a Staff Seargeant or above doesnt make you a Drill Instructor, you have to a go to DI School.
DIs are trained to Teach thats why they teach in different sub-branches....
Common Officers dont know how to master the way of yelling and make recruits mentaly tough....
The reason is so that there is not backlash. Only enlisted are DIs etc. and after OCS graduates technically have power over all enlisted, but Naval officers do not have power over Marines unless in their direct chain of command for whatever reason. Additionally Marines are more highly trained as DIs etc. thus they are the natural choice. In addition, even though Marines and Navy are different branches they are the same department.
@chrismc410 im in the Navy, but im just guessing its becuase Marine DIs are the "toughest". so why not make some good Commissioned Officers with a squared away Marine who is also apart of the Dept. of the Navy. we're brothers here anyways. we all work together.
First Sergeant, thank you for all that you do. I begin the PLC Program for the United States Marine Corps this summer, and frankly sir, this motivates me. On a side note, for all commenting with a sense of laughing in them, be careful. This man has the authority to take you to the pit and have you try and find funny. Thank you for what you do First Sergeant. Semper Fidelis
Yes I am the D.I. Is OCS difficult? Yes it is. Are the sacrifices worth it? Yes they are. You have a Masters? Your ticket is already punched, get in line; put up with the harassment for a short three months and enjoy a quality of life that will amaze you. Get your butt on the OCS bus, take the gut check and enjoy the good life. I was an E-8 with 23 years of service making only $50 more than an 0-3 with a couple years. What better excuse do you need.
I appreciate the compliment but I would be remiss in my duties if I failed to tell you that you got the rank wrong. It is First Sergeant...and the First Sergeant say's PUSHUPS MAKE YOU SMARTER.
Sorry First Sergeant! I just saw that you said you were an E8. Took a chance on the gamble and lost. That what I get for guessing. Assumption is the mother of F%@# ups right?
No worries hard charger. If you go to the home page you will see my E-mail listed which has my rank in it. Based upon a five minute response you either failed to give me my pushups or just did not do them because I normally administered to 15 minute pit calls. Have a good night.
Back to normal, never developed permanent damage as a few other people in the healthcare business said I would damage my vocal chords when they tried to scare me into not yelling. Imagine a D.I. not yelling...some things are just impossible to visualize.
I know that place... Pensacola! I was stationed there. My first morning I was walking to the chow hall which was just the other side of the building in this shot when I saw someone in khakis walking along the sidewalk. All of a sudden, a DI comes around the corner and the guy in khakis yells, "Good morning, Sir!"
At the moment I'm working towards applying to both Navy and Marine Corps OCS. From what it looks like in this video Naval OCS is taught by Marine DIs as well. How different are the two?
The Navy program is a gut check by the Marine D.I. to find out just how bad you want a commission in the Navy, the Marine OCS program gets its stress from the Physical Training Program, academics and observed leadership potential evaluations. In the end, you will certainly be challenged and most importantly you will have the right to say "Yes, I was Marine Corps Trained".
Both programs use prior tour Drill Instructors with one or more tours of experience behind them.
Ask me again in a couple months? I'm classing up on 16 AUG in Newport. ;)
(But otherwise, yes, I think it's immensely cool that the Navy had the good sense to allow the Marine Corps - who epitomizes e'spirit de corps and military bearing - to train Naval officers).
It still doesn't look quite like as intense as Marine Corps boot camp. In fact, that movie Full Metal Jacket gets one main thing wrong that perhaps didn't apply to the Vietnam era. The Senior D.I. is not the mean one. The D.I.'s play a good-cop-bad-cop game. The Juniors are the mean ones. The Senior plays the role of "good cop." BTW, good luck to you. I wasn't in the Navy, but the Marine Corps. However, I can maybe answer some of your questions.
When more award approval authority was pushed down to the Commanding Officer, I saw a spike upwards awards go up. My last unit was during the Kosovo / Serbia campaign operation Anvil. There were 98 enlisted and 36 officers in my unit. When I witness approximately 70 enlisted (myself included) get a Navy Achievement or Navy Commendation medal and we never were threatened with hostile fire or sent outside the base, I have a problem with that. I have 2 awards I dont feel I rate, one end of tour.
Cont: For the Marines who have entered the combat zone, you have my upmost respect and deserve the awards coming your way. I dont begrudge you anything. My observations inside the Corps were 1980 2003. Each generation of Marines has a different overall experience. Our 2nd SGTMAJMC Rauber never saw combat in WWII or Korea and at the time of his retirement his only personal award was GC 7th award. He did fight in Haiti in 1922 1923.
For the Marines who are reading this disregard his comments of ribbons are given out like candy. You are accomplishing the mission and being recognized as you should be. Your country, Corps, and leaders are proud. It is the fact that you are in the fight, looking to go back and jumping up and down to stay there until the mission is complete. Semper Fi and god bless!
I don't think his comments are unsat at all. I think they reflect an entitlement society (or rather your's do) where small children are raised with getting a sticker for every little thing they do right. Those small children grow up expecting to be handed medals and accomadations for things that weren't really earned.
Where I teach, we have a school currency that can be used to buy small toys at the school store. Last year when I came to the school, I gave a one dollar buck to a student ....
cont: I gave it to him for answering a question correctly in class. His response to me... "Don't you have any 20's or 50's??
I think this First Sergeant's comments reflects a person who understands the pride and honor that comes from truly earning something..
You know.. I'm sitting here at my computer reading that we are now (with a consequence of war) sending ships to N.Korea to intercept one of their ships.
And I can't help but wonder if some of those naval officers the good First Sergeant trained are on those ships.... I have no doubt that our military will deal with this situation in the best way.. But I have to tell you. It is comforting to know that First Sergeant Crouch has trained some of these officers.
once that recruit goes throught bootcamp and his drill instructors call him a Marine, he's a Marine for life, he will take it to his grave, no one can take that away. It's hard for people to understand, unless you are a Marine, because it isn't something that is given it's earned
The year was 1997, I had 17 years of service, was on my third tour as a D.I. During the Golf war I was on my 2nd tour of duty as a D.I. Ribbons for enlisted were pretty tough to earn up until around 1999 when I started to see them handed out like candy. I got a second NAM for something I felt I did not deserve. I had ten years of service before I got my second ribbon-ND. In that time I had been the CG Gen Driver, successful D.I. tour. Things were different back then.
What a great speech. Even though I was an Army officer, I will concede that the Marines take discipline to a higher level. The quality of Marine DIs is superior to those in the Army. I wish my Drill Sergeants had that fire in the belly.
Gets the blood flowing again. Was there a officer there(1996-98) with you named Fulford? He was my last platoon co(wpns 1/4. camp horno.) Did you come up with this introduction on your own or does every ocs drill instructor say the same things? Thank you for your service.
Semper Fi 1stSgt Crouch, i served in the Marine Corps between 1986-92. i have just recently watched ever video of yours. outstanding Marine you are. Is OCS conducted in pennsacola or in newport, rhode island? with all the base closures and re-alignments, its hard for us "old timers" to keep up with the military these days. again SEmper Fi.
1968crs1 2 months ago
@1968crs1 Warrior, thanks for the comments. Navy OCS closed down Pensacola in the summer of 2007 and relocated to Newport RI. Huge mistake from a training standpoint. Close order drill and good weather is paramount to developing the ultimate Warrior. Develop the discipline first, then you can make them miserable in cold weather.
crouchje 1 month ago
@crouchje thanks for the info. so now that you are retired from military service, what do you do as a civilan? I bet nothing compares to what you did as a drill instructor.. To become an OCS drill instructor, di you first have to have experience as a DI at one of the MCRD's?
1968crs1 1 month ago
@1968crs1
To be a DI at any college ROTC program (AMOI Program) or Navy OCS you must have a successful tour training enlisted recruits at either MCRD.
I am a Director of Facilities overseeing construction, maintenance, landscaping, security and environmental services for a hospital. It is an excellent career choice and one that suites me perfectly. As for nothing compares, well I have been very fortunate to have had several exciting career choices in life and love this one too.
crouchje 1 month ago
@crouchje again thanks for the info, i am sorry i didnt reply earlier, i was working long hours this past couple of weeks..Semper Fi
1968crs1 1 month ago
This marine is obviously enlisted.
All4mula 2 months ago
1 person DOR'ed
ilhwan7539 3 months ago
I'm really struggling to choose between to commission USMC or USN. I'm a freshman engineering major. I know the Navy has a great engineering program, but I also like the idea of earning the USMC title. Any suggestions?
poolie626 5 months ago
@poolie626 Many graduates of Navy OCS felt cheated when they did not find that consistent professionalism of the OCS experience and specifically the competence and leadership of the Marine DI’s was not representative of the typical senior enlisted. All of the officers I trained have said they enjoyed their Navy career but I assure you, if you join the Marine Corps you will be forever proud of the fact that Marines enforce standards that other services wish for but do not mandate.
crouchje 5 months ago
@crouchje thanks a lot for the insight. amazing command voice btw, i had dreams of becoming a D.I. one day, wish i could commission and be a D.I., that's be the perfect career. anyway, is it really true the Marines prepare you for career once you leave the Corps? I only ask because, if I join the Marines, I wouldn't be doing anything related to my career field, but I feel it'd balance out due to the leadership and experienced gained.
poolie626 5 months ago
@poolie626 dont go marines just for a title. people will have respect for you no matter what branch you serve in. go whichever way you actually want to. i can tell you though that there is much more to do with engineering in the navy.
dh3684 3 months ago
@poolie626 go Marines
moserr11 1 month ago
Gunnery Sergeant Crouch, I am an enlistee tof the USMC. I ship out on the 29th of this month to Parris Island. Is there anything you would recommend for me to keep a focus on during the transformation?
-Keith
xTroiDxTinEx 6 months ago
@xTroiDxTinEx Keith, contact me via my e-mail listed in my profile.
crouchje 6 months ago
GSst, this officer candidate has a question. When you get promoted to Gunnery Sergeant, do you have to go to a specific school for that rank like Corporal's Course or Staff NCO school? It seems to me that every Gunny I have ever run in to has a certain distaste for everything. It's a common trait I see in all Marine Corps E-6's. Just curious!
w47usmc 6 months ago
@w47usmc There are leaderships schools for CPL's, SGT's, SSGT's and GYSGT's. As for a distaste for everything, not sure what you are speaking of there. However all good Marines have a hatred though for those who are non conformist, liberal, individualistic type people who happen to also wear the Marine uniform.
crouchje 6 months ago
@crouchje Gunnery Sergeant, I shouldn't have used the word 'distaste.' It wasn't what I meant. It is my experience that every Marine E-6 that I meet has a very distinct mindset and way of carrying themselves, different from every other rank in the Marine Corps. It seems to come with the title of 'Gunny.' Thank you for your time GYSGT and your outstanding job of showing the rest of the world a little Marine Corps motivation!!
SEMPER FI
w47usmc 6 months ago
@w47usmc
Gunnery sergeant is E-7. Also known as a PRC E-7.
mikemcq10 6 months ago
what GYSGT Crouch says in this speech is awesome. it not only applies to the candidates he is speaking to but it applies to everyday life. the ideas of never giving up and striving to be the best we can is applicable to everybody outside the military. great intro!
six8rydr2001 6 months ago
did he say, "ur feet flat on my dick?"
theonetheycallian 6 months ago
@theonetheycallian Your feet, flat on my DECK. Deck is the Nautical term for any type of floor surface.
w47usmc 6 months ago
@w47usmc oh. ok. that makes sense.
theonetheycallian 6 months ago
@crouchje Hey gunnery sergeant, have you ever heard of the United States Naval Sea Cadet Corps
Bedtimekilla 7 months ago
brings back memories
fixedwingfastmover 7 months ago
Was this recorded in front of Regiment at NAS Pensacola? Or outside of the Battalions? When I was a poopie in 1989, we were in Regiment the first few days.
Great video sir. Brings back "good" memories!
TheCab2345 7 months ago in playlist Drill Instructors
So in Navy OCS they are trained by Marines? Interesting, I like the idea of cross training.
skittlesareyum48 8 months ago
If there were more father figures like GYSGT Crouch, the prisons wouldn't be filled with the colostomy bags of this generation!!!!
1shot1puncture 9 months ago 2
it's the sdi pick up speech except he changed "Marines" with "Naval Officer"
weweallthewayhome 9 months ago
Gunny, why are you wearing a smokey while training these Naval Officer Candidates but DIs who traing Marine Offficer candidates do not? Why do Naval Officer Candidates address you as "Sir" but Marine Officer Candidates address their DIs by their rank(Sgt, SSgt, etc.)? Did you have to serve as a DI training recruits on the Island or MCRD San Diego before getting to train Naval Officers? Are Naval Officers still trained by Marine DIs?
Semper Fi!
19southpaw76 9 months ago
@19southpaw76 In 1969 the Marine Corps authorized DI's at NAS Pensacola to wear the campaign cover because they do the same job as enslited recruit DI's. Since 1980 all DI's assigned to AOCS and later Navy OCS had to be prior tour enslited DI's. These future naval officers will never be on a Marine promotion board or lead Marines, therefore the relationship is much different. I turned down Marine OCS for my third tour for many of these reasons. Marines still train Navy OCS candidates.
crouchje 9 months ago
Hey Gunny, how did you develop your introductory speech? Were you taught a general outline in DI school, or did you build it up in time?
4775josh 9 months ago
@4775josh Josh, inflection and delivery were developed by DI School and years of practice. The words of the speech were verbatim from the Senior Drill Instructor speech given to all Marine recruits with the words Marine replaced by Naval Officer or Shipmate. I plagurized!
crouchje 9 months ago
He Gunny, how did you develop you introductory speech? Were you given a general outline when you started out, or did you just build it up after doing it enough times?
4775josh 9 months ago
Say once my first four ends and I have the choice in becoming a drill instructor, do you have any advice upon entering drill instructor school rather than having good physical attributes? It's something I've been wanting to do in return of giving back to the Corps.
HondaEvo6 11 months ago
@HondaEvo6 Be passionate, if you lack passion for becoming a DI it will show in your performance both physical and academically. Contact me via my profile e-mail address please and I will share more.
crouchje 11 months ago
Oo-rah 1stSGT!!!!
CAPJasonG 11 months ago
As a female, do they make you chop all of your hair off? I was just wondering because I have long hair and if so I will get it cut before hand.
sooocheeky 11 months ago
I can't wait to go into one of the branches, but I can already tell that Gunnys are so awesome!
zcm007attack 1 year ago
It took me ten years to get my second ribbon, this was at the seventeen year mark. I was a DI during the first gulf war and 9/11 had not happened yet. Takes opportunity to get awards. My ribbon rack was normal for a Marine of 17 years back in 1997.
crouchje 1 year ago
@crouchje - I entered the Marine Corps on April 25,1985 at P.I.S.C. and graduated on July 19,1985 with 3rd Battalion, H Co., Platoon 3049... Senior Drill Instructor SSGT. Parr, SGT. Pascoe, and SGT. Hernandez were my D.I.'s...I served 4 years Honorably and have been out over 20 years now, but I think about the Corps everyday...damn I miss the Camaraderie and Esprit de Corps! I also agree with you that rank and ribbons are harder to get in peacetime...Semper Fi Devil Dog!!
marine4lyfe1985 1 year ago
@marine4lyfe1985 - War Dog! Thanks for the opinion and reflection. Why don't you contact me via my personal E-mail listed under my profile 1stsgtcrouch@gmail.com
crouchje 1 year ago
@marine4lyfe1985 I joined jan 28 grad. boot april 19 '85 and got out n '89.... tons of memories
PInk77W1 11 months ago
Why does the Gunny have few ribbons? I am assuming that he just didn't feel like wearing a bunch of them.
carson0524 1 year ago
excuse me sergeant couch, are all the drill movements you trained them to do authorized movements by the navy? and must the NJROTC follow the style that you guys do?
wrestlinggenius101 1 year ago
Close Order Drill is taught from the Marine Corps drill manual at all programs that are run by Marines. The M-1 Garand rifle (best drill rifle ever) has been replaced by the M-16 at Navy OCS last year. Hope this answers your question. For all you old timers, yes; the M-1 rifle manual for order to port, port to order, and inspection arms was slightly modified for better appearance. Correct M-1 rifle manual has you sticking your elbows out like a clown instead of being tight to the body.
crouchje 1 year ago
@crouchje haha, i always thought its bettter in than out, one more question, would you recommend any youtube videos to watch on military drill and exhibition, our NJROTC unit needs some fresh ideas and knowledge on how to do the moves the RIGHT way.
wrestlinggenius101 1 year ago
May I ask what is up with the guys who are bent over at the waist?
anditslikethat 1 year ago
wow, flawless introduction.
nemesis656 1 year ago
Hows Ocs any differ from PLC program?
kmwpa 1 year ago
Semper Fi Gunny!
vidguy67 1 year ago
Hey Gunnery Sergeant, I am a poolee in the USMC and I ship out to Parris Island on Valentines Day. Got any tips on how to survive boot camp?
misfitalk3kid 1 year ago
MY DRILL INSTRUCTORS WERE THEBEST
jesuschristisking01 1 year ago
hey gunney could you become an ROTC instructor theres one in miami florida the name of the high school is feelix varela high school they desprately need an ROTC instructor it is navy let me know thanks vinnie
smith2205 1 year ago
cause i would love to meet you
smith2205 1 year ago
Thanks for the suggestion but Marines only have 3 or 5 years after retirement to slide into a JROTC job. I have a great career post retirement. Thank you for the compliments.
crouchje 1 year ago
@crouchje Whats your retirement career post?
Mctavish94 1 year ago
Hey semper FI gunny! but what made you want to be ocs instead of teaching us marines?
VirkDS 1 year ago
I did teach you Marines. During my day DI tours were two years each. I did two tours at PISC and requested a 3rd. I was told by Special Assignments no way. They offered me Marine OCS and I said “No Way, I would get in trouble, I am too intense”. Then they offered me Navy OCS which at the time was very heavy on close order drill, PT, and intensity. Think MCRD on steroids. Marine OCS is stressful but not from the DI’s, it is the program, PT and peer pressure which create stress.
crouchje 1 year ago
First Sgt. Crouch, Could you please come to The University of Akron and knock some sense into some maggots? We have these damn hipsters here that don't know the meaning to not look homeless nor the reason why you wear a belt in their freaking pants. We need DI's to scare the living hell out of these boys and girls entering our society in the hopes that they can evade materialism and complete non sense living and focus on proper appearance and success.
afireinside44203 1 year ago
Unfortunately there are not enough DI's nor a tolerant judicial system to allow DI's to do what they do best. I too was appalled living in a college town a few years ago and seeing what appeared to be the homeless attending school. Too bad our liberal hollywood elite, the music industry and the glamorization of failure has depleted from many the important quality of "Shame". A significant portion of society under 50 seem to feel no shame in their simple life choices.
crouchje 1 year ago
i wonder where this gunny is stationed at now...if he's even still in?
jjguevara81 1 year ago
I retired in 2003, writing a book about DI's at Pensacola training Naval Officers.
crouchje 1 year ago
@crouchje I would love to read your book when your through with it Sarge
mgk22 1 year ago
"is.. your FEET, flat on my DICK!" This guy is GREAT
thomasiw22 1 year ago
ROFLMAO....."Flat on my deck!"
Just begin Thomas, hit the deck and begin!
crouchje 1 year ago
@crouchje My apologies, sir! Yes sir!
thomasiw22 1 year ago
He is a Senior Drill Instructor.. you can tell because he wears a black patent leather belt. Only Senior Drill Instructors wear that belt... Evan in Cammies Senior Drill instructors wear a black patent leather belt
karengerdes1993 1 year ago
Marine NCO's train Naval Officers
karengerdes1993 1 year ago
@karengerdes1993
that's how badass the Corps is.
Enlisted Marines train both Navy and Marine Corps officers... and in my opinion, they should also train people who hold public office... ;)
blurryfast 1 year ago
Marine NCO's train Navy Naval Officers
karengerdes1993 1 year ago
For OCS Drill Instructors, do they first get a tour or more at Parris Island or San Diego before taking charge of an OCS class?
bc1969214 1 year ago
Yes, it is a requirement to have a successful tour of duty as a Drill Instructor at one of the two boot camps before getting selected to train officer candidates.
crouchje 1 year ago
@crouchje Thank you 1st Sgt. If I could take up a bit more of your time did you prefer MCRD duty or OCS and what is the main difference in the way you shape recruits vs. candidates? I'm just guessing, but it seems like recruits are told you signed on the dotted line and you're here until we're done with you while OCS is drop on request.
bc1969214 1 year ago
Yes, you must have at a minimum of one successful tour of duty at either MCRD. Most of us had four years training recruits prior to assignment to Navy OCS in the late 90's. Back then each tour of duty as a DI was two years.
crouchje 1 year ago
hoo rah gunny! smith here from your 1st OCS class! YUT! how are you, sir?
serendepitysaki 1 year ago
Warrior, why have you not contacted me via my E-mail that is listed publicly on my profile? You owe me a chit for pain and a thousand word essay for failure to maintain connection with your DI.
crouchje 1 year ago
@crouchje sir! yes sir! you have mail, sir!
serendepitysaki 1 year ago
Damn Gunny...this made the hair on my chest (which my Drill Instructor made me grow) stand up at attention. Thanks for putting this up! Semper Fi
alxusmc 1 year ago
its so wierd to see yall in Uniform back then 1stSgt before the war started...in a short 3.5 years ive racked up 9 ribbons/medals...not toot the horn so to speak just an observation. Semper Fi
Lcpl Clark, John
3/10 Battery I, 2nd Plt, 1st squad, 1st fireteam leader.
MickyMarineCorps1232 1 year ago
This will blow your mind, from 1980 - 1990 I had one ribbon, the good conduct. Back then there was no drill instructor ribbon so although I had already finsihed my first of three DI tours I was just a one ribbon Marine. By the time I had reached GYSGT in 1995 I was up to four or five ribbons. At the conclusion of nearly 24 years my ribbon rack only attained nine ribbons. Thanks for serving Marine!
crouchje 1 year ago
Thank you for your service to our country, Sir!
longof99 1 year ago
First Sergeant Crouch, may I say Hoorah fellow Marine! I served from '95 - 2000 and was some best times of my life. Thanks to Youtube, and great Marines like yourself for putting videos like these on this website. Brings back memories. Went to Parris Island in 95' and listening to this speech just puts a smile on my face. Hoorah!
sliver01 1 year ago
Thanks Warrior! Since you are in the mood for some intensity, check out SSGT Mike Nichols on Youtube, put in the search string
SDISSgtNichols
He is good to go!
crouchje 1 year ago
@sliver01 i have to say even though this looks interesting and i believe that i could do this and become a officer of the navy but a part of me is saying that i can not do it or wont like it and i recognize it as my fathers voice but I want to do it. I currently am finishing a masters in mental health and i am looking for a job sadly the job that are posted want 2 to five year of experience and i believe that the only way i will get that is through the navy
CrimsomLeo 1 year ago
@CrimsomLeo the only thing I could suggest is that you follow your heart. I am sure, like even with me when I went through Marine enlisted recruit training; it was pretty tough and so will OCS be tough. However, the Navy will be a great way to gain experience, experience your looking for. Now, I can't say you should go in, I will never tell someone that, just follow your instincts of what will be the best path for you. Good luck!
sliver01 1 year ago
@sliver01 sadly the officer recruiter in my area sadly told me that my masters was a waste of money since it is a master in mental health counseling. I was totally destroyed when told this.
CrimsomLeo 1 year ago
respect for DIs, as respect is given for all teachers, all Leaders-Towards-Knowledge =)
this guy is great, ONLY marine officers pull off that act perfectly, like, "i am SO pissed off that i have to be here!!!" =D
alexp9999 1 year ago
MSgt Crouch - what day in training was this? Up in Newport, we got part of this speech by Candios on our first day and then a lot of it on Wakeup Wednesday, but it was with the whole class team.
dajinsta 1 year ago
Oh, and your photo was still up in the halls of posterity in Newport, I made sure to look for it during sweepers...haha.
dajinsta 1 year ago
Goddamn this man sounds mean.
Davemercd 1 year ago
this is just like the SDI speech at parris island, with only a few key words changed to suit the navy
cherry8605 1 year ago
Comment removed
DisbJ 1 year ago
This guy is awesome. He knows what he's doing for sure. His job is not have anyone drop out. Retention is key. You will always for your entire life remember what you learned from him.
formernavyflyboy 2 years ago
Well formernavyflyboy let me tell you about the man you have just commented on. He did and still does "know what he's doing for sure" and being in his last OCS class I will remember what I learned from him for the rest of my life. But he did and still does not care about "retention". He always said if you don't have what it took then you needed to "take your life and go away". Only a few were "held to a higher standard" and have the honor of being "Crouch Trained". 5-4, 4-5, 4-4 !!!!
dcw68510 2 years ago
@formernavyflyboy Having had the privelage of being trained by this man (OCS 02-97), your first two sentences are truer than you can imagine. Your second point sadly borders on ridiculousness. It isn't about retention; it is about setting standards. Retention is not key. Weak, ineffective, and undisciplined candidates NEED to be identified and weeded out during training. He was fair, but those that couldn't live up to the standards were packed up and sent home, or more likely quit, as many did.
proudpatriot72 2 years ago
Attrition was the mission from the Marine DI perspective. Nobody deserves to be led by an officer who has not validated his commitment to the service with a gut check. I wanted to ensure that under the most adverse conditions there was no quit in them. In 1986 Col. Wesley Fox, Medal of Honor Recipient and former DI said I thought the old way was the way it should be. I washed out as many recruits as I could wash out. I thought that a good drill instructor didnt graduate very many.
crouchje 2 years ago
@crouchje retention isnt good dude. if your a POS, why should the military retain u. problem in the military. if everyone except 1 guy fails out then they shouldnt have been officers
MrKyleSchick 1 year ago
this guys crazy
anthonym267 2 years ago 2
is he a marine?
leav1ng99 2 years ago 2
@leav1ng99. yes he is a Marine. The Navy uses Marines DIs
MrPsychoreaper666 2 years ago
What's with the guys leaning over? Just so everyone can see? That's gotta suck so much
tandre1 2 years ago
gunny is in all of the NAVY OCS videos
jonmark11 2 years ago
I saw a training video in my NROTC class, and it's the same drill instructor.
SonicAnimeStudios 2 years ago
Never did understand why a Marine would train Naval Officers. Wouldn't another Naval Officer or Senior/Master Chief Petty Officer be more appropriate? Any enlightenment would be most appreciated
chrismc410 2 years ago
Because Marines have thee highest standard of discipline in which any officer (Navy or Marines) should be held to in order to make a fine leader.
LouieG7777 2 years ago 3
This could be NROTC which trains both Marines and Sailors.
sethbmth 2 years ago
No it's Naval OCS.
darkestwire 2 years ago
hes not just a marine, he is a Drill Instructor, even being a Staff Seargeant or above doesnt make you a Drill Instructor, you have to a go to DI School.
DIs are trained to Teach thats why they teach in different sub-branches....
Common Officers dont know how to master the way of yelling and make recruits mentaly tough....
LteeP 2 years ago 2
Marines have almost perfect disipline and are known for that.
deloco18 2 years ago 5
YOU GOTTA BE SHITTIN ME
TravisBickle2 2 years ago
The reason is so that there is not backlash. Only enlisted are DIs etc. and after OCS graduates technically have power over all enlisted, but Naval officers do not have power over Marines unless in their direct chain of command for whatever reason. Additionally Marines are more highly trained as DIs etc. thus they are the natural choice. In addition, even though Marines and Navy are different branches they are the same department.
Moony1989 2 years ago 10
Its because the Marines are a branch of the Navy.
Sbcdestroy12 2 years ago
@chrismc410 im in the Navy, but im just guessing its becuase Marine DIs are the "toughest". so why not make some good Commissioned Officers with a squared away Marine who is also apart of the Dept. of the Navy. we're brothers here anyways. we all work together.
DrummTrip44 2 years ago 12
Yep. The USMC lends it's DIs, and they get a good amount of their officers from NROTC and Navy academies. The Navy and Marines are brother services
IAMME000 2 years ago
If they are going to tell people "I was Marine Corps Trained" I wanted to ensure they knew what the Marine Corps standards are.
crouchje 2 years ago
oorah Top, Semper Fi!
lockdown1253 2 years ago
First Sergeant, thank you for all that you do. I begin the PLC Program for the United States Marine Corps this summer, and frankly sir, this motivates me. On a side note, for all commenting with a sense of laughing in them, be careful. This man has the authority to take you to the pit and have you try and find funny. Thank you for what you do First Sergeant. Semper Fidelis
Hockeynate18 2 years ago
I hope you survive both PLC summers without injury Warrior.
crouchje 2 years ago
What a rush!!
judgeplayer 2 years ago
Dude this is beast haha I like ur videos
xxwolf13 2 years ago
rofl, i bet their making fun of his name behind his back.
LtActionCam 2 years ago
I doubt it... Would you make fun of his name???? I'd be afraid.... :)
lorca006 2 years ago
This has been flagged as spam show
God bless the United States Marines!
Vintage1976 2 years ago
Comment removed
PanZheXin 2 years ago
Yes I am the D.I. Is OCS difficult? Yes it is. Are the sacrifices worth it? Yes they are. You have a Masters? Your ticket is already punched, get in line; put up with the harassment for a short three months and enjoy a quality of life that will amaze you. Get your butt on the OCS bus, take the gut check and enjoy the good life. I was an E-8 with 23 years of service making only $50 more than an 0-3 with a couple years. What better excuse do you need.
crouchje 2 years ago
Ooh-rah Master Sergeant! I love your response to the guys question about OCS. First time I have come across your videos. Good stuff.
pikezh563 2 years ago
I appreciate the compliment but I would be remiss in my duties if I failed to tell you that you got the rank wrong. It is First Sergeant...and the First Sergeant say's PUSHUPS MAKE YOU SMARTER.
Semper Fi!
crouchje 2 years ago
Sorry First Sergeant! I just saw that you said you were an E8. Took a chance on the gamble and lost. That what I get for guessing. Assumption is the mother of F%@# ups right?
pikezh563 2 years ago
No worries hard charger. If you go to the home page you will see my E-mail listed which has my rank in it. Based upon a five minute response you either failed to give me my pushups or just did not do them because I normally administered to 15 minute pit calls. Have a good night.
crouchje 2 years ago
this is almost exactly the same as your senior drill instructor speech on black friday, except he changes words from marines to naval officers.
dmellow45 2 years ago
You are right. I was the only one who was doing it at that time. I don't know if any of the other D.I.'s since have picked up the concept.
crouchje 2 years ago
well thanks guns
dmellow45 2 years ago
How's the ole vocal chords holding up?
BrantMooreBand 2 years ago
Back to normal, never developed permanent damage as a few other people in the healthcare business said I would damage my vocal chords when they tried to scare me into not yelling. Imagine a D.I. not yelling...some things are just impossible to visualize.
crouchje 2 years ago
awesome.. your lucky! I know several that have not been so lucky.
BrantMooreBand 2 years ago
They likely used the voice box instead of their diaphragm.
crouchje 2 years ago
Your videos are awesome GySgt!!
VERT531CA 2 years ago
I know that place... Pensacola! I was stationed there. My first morning I was walking to the chow hall which was just the other side of the building in this shot when I saw someone in khakis walking along the sidewalk. All of a sudden, a DI comes around the corner and the guy in khakis yells, "Good morning, Sir!"
abcaines 2 years ago
At the moment I'm working towards applying to both Navy and Marine Corps OCS. From what it looks like in this video Naval OCS is taught by Marine DIs as well. How different are the two?
AwesomeMcBadAss 2 years ago
The Navy program is a gut check by the Marine D.I. to find out just how bad you want a commission in the Navy, the Marine OCS program gets its stress from the Physical Training Program, academics and observed leadership potential evaluations. In the end, you will certainly be challenged and most importantly you will have the right to say "Yes, I was Marine Corps Trained".
Both programs use prior tour Drill Instructors with one or more tours of experience behind them.
crouchje 2 years ago
Comment removed
TravisBickle2 2 years ago
AwesomeMcBadAsses usually wash out.
Keep watching these videos and dream on...
TravisBickle2 2 years ago
thank you for the sagely words of advice Travis, but I assure you the screen name is a piece of sarcasm left over from my early years in college.
AwesomeMcBadAss 2 years ago
This DI reminds me of my SDI back at PI.
SDI-SSgt Wruble Platoon 3108 Lima Company graduated December 7th 2007.
Fugazi1787 2 years ago
Buuuuuuullshit. the Marine DIs at Navy OCS are some of the most impressive, top-notch Marines in the Marine Corps.
m0tbaillie 2 years ago 3
I'm a former Marine myself. Isn't it something else that an ENLISTED Marine can train an OFFICER in the Navy?
libertyeconomics 2 years ago 2
Ask me again in a couple months? I'm classing up on 16 AUG in Newport. ;)
(But otherwise, yes, I think it's immensely cool that the Navy had the good sense to allow the Marine Corps - who epitomizes e'spirit de corps and military bearing - to train Naval officers).
m0tbaillie 2 years ago
It still doesn't look quite like as intense as Marine Corps boot camp. In fact, that movie Full Metal Jacket gets one main thing wrong that perhaps didn't apply to the Vietnam era. The Senior D.I. is not the mean one. The D.I.'s play a good-cop-bad-cop game. The Juniors are the mean ones. The Senior plays the role of "good cop." BTW, good luck to you. I wasn't in the Navy, but the Marine Corps. However, I can maybe answer some of your questions.
libertyeconomics 2 years ago
That cop game is still played!
PTurchan1 2 years ago
why are some of the hald bent over at attention or kneeling or str8 at attention?
Uptowntwan 2 years ago
sit, neal, bend, stand...if you have never heard of it..your wrong
RebirthOfRomance 2 years ago
air force doesnt have those...or army...looks like a navy thing
Uptowntwan 2 years ago
and if your wrong....stay wrong.
ExistenceWithin 2 years ago
Now that is an amazing introduction. I wish I could develop a command voice like that.
God Bless our Soliders, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines!
soldier48 2 years ago 2
When more award approval authority was pushed down to the Commanding Officer, I saw a spike upwards awards go up. My last unit was during the Kosovo / Serbia campaign operation Anvil. There were 98 enlisted and 36 officers in my unit. When I witness approximately 70 enlisted (myself included) get a Navy Achievement or Navy Commendation medal and we never were threatened with hostile fire or sent outside the base, I have a problem with that. I have 2 awards I dont feel I rate, one end of tour.
crouchje 2 years ago
Cont: For the Marines who have entered the combat zone, you have my upmost respect and deserve the awards coming your way. I dont begrudge you anything. My observations inside the Corps were 1980 2003. Each generation of Marines has a different overall experience. Our 2nd SGTMAJMC Rauber never saw combat in WWII or Korea and at the time of his retirement his only personal award was GC 7th award. He did fight in Haiti in 1922 1923.
crouchje 2 years ago
For the Marines who are reading this disregard his comments of ribbons are given out like candy. You are accomplishing the mission and being recognized as you should be. Your country, Corps, and leaders are proud. It is the fact that you are in the fight, looking to go back and jumping up and down to stay there until the mission is complete. Semper Fi and god bless!
MSgt out!
USMCMSgt0699 2 years ago
I don't think his comments are unsat at all. I think they reflect an entitlement society (or rather your's do) where small children are raised with getting a sticker for every little thing they do right. Those small children grow up expecting to be handed medals and accomadations for things that weren't really earned.
Where I teach, we have a school currency that can be used to buy small toys at the school store. Last year when I came to the school, I gave a one dollar buck to a student ....
lorca006 2 years ago
cont: I gave it to him for answering a question correctly in class. His response to me... "Don't you have any 20's or 50's??
I think this First Sergeant's comments reflects a person who understands the pride and honor that comes from truly earning something..
You know.. I'm sitting here at my computer reading that we are now (with a consequence of war) sending ships to N.Korea to intercept one of their ships.
lorca006 2 years ago
And I can't help but wonder if some of those naval officers the good First Sergeant trained are on those ships.... I have no doubt that our military will deal with this situation in the best way.. But I have to tell you. It is comforting to know that First Sergeant Crouch has trained some of these officers.
lorca006 2 years ago
I agree with some comments on the DI.
I was in the Army and my basic training DI was an ex Marine so he told us.
He was as tough as nails, but he made us strong soldiers ready for anything.
God Bless America
We Support Our Troops
TomKatTV 2 years ago
there are no ex-marines
USMCHicks6481 2 years ago
I understand that. I guess they transfer.
TomKatTV 2 years ago
once that recruit goes throught bootcamp and his drill instructors call him a Marine, he's a Marine for life, he will take it to his grave, no one can take that away. It's hard for people to understand, unless you are a Marine, because it isn't something that is given it's earned
SEMPER FI !!!!
USMCHicks6481 2 years ago
Motivated....but the Gunny only has about 5 ribbons....what gives?
Rossoneri83 2 years ago
The year was 1997, I had 17 years of service, was on my third tour as a D.I. During the Golf war I was on my 2nd tour of duty as a D.I. Ribbons for enlisted were pretty tough to earn up until around 1999 when I started to see them handed out like candy. I got a second NAM for something I felt I did not deserve. I had ten years of service before I got my second ribbon-ND. In that time I had been the CG Gen Driver, successful D.I. tour. Things were different back then.
crouchje 2 years ago
i joined in 85 and there were staff ncos that had less than 2 rows or ribbons/medals.
as the gunny says, times were different back then.
marine6 2 years ago
What a great speech. Even though I was an Army officer, I will concede that the Marines take discipline to a higher level. The quality of Marine DIs is superior to those in the Army. I wish my Drill Sergeants had that fire in the belly.
AndJusticeForMe 2 years ago
Semper Fi and God bless.
1MarineVeteran 2 years ago
Gets the blood flowing again. Was there a officer there(1996-98) with you named Fulford? He was my last platoon co(wpns 1/4. camp horno.) Did you come up with this introduction on your own or does every ocs drill instructor say the same things? Thank you for your service.
Devil Dog 1992-1996
0351,0352,0331
03gun 2 years ago