Making the Corps

When I learned that a family member was about to become a Marine recruit, I could not have been more ignorant. The Marine Corps? What does that mean? This book gives you an idea of how new recruits become Marines and how the Corps is different from the other services. If you love a Marine, or a young person who wants to become one, this is an excellent introduction. In addition to the bootcamp stories, you learn about the culture of the Marines. I know that I was fascinated by the authors comments on how much more relaxed Marines are with the press, how innovative they can be, and how much harder it is to get a promotion. The book is not all complimentary. There are interesting issues raised about the conflict between Marine and civilian culture. The book was originally published in peace time, and that also made a difference in the attitudes of the people portrayed in the book.

Highly recomended for motivators of people,leaders of man and woman,studiers of human nature and wannabe Marines.Rick's see's with the eyes of a scribbler verus those of a pissed off grunt or someone that passed through Parris Island 40 years ago.A great record of Marine Corps methods and training.Did Gunny Hartman read this? Semper Fi, Kevin

This is what you call a high adrenaline book! It will make you feel guilty for sitting in a comfy chair reading about the ardous physical and mental training. I loved this book -- I've always had a great respect for military training, but I was particulary interested in reading about the mental games. Most people focus on the physical, but Ricks shows how the mental games are just as important for surviving. This is a no-nonsense, journalist, first hand account of marine boot camp. The detail and insider perspective make it a great read!

If you want a great read about today's USMC recruit training at Parris Island, SC, and a great insight into the USMC vs. American society 'culture war,' then don't miss this OUTSTANDING book!Ricks does a superb job of capturing the challenges and triumphs of a real platoon undergoing bootcamp at the Corps' legendary Parris Island Recruit Depot. He explores the recruits' backgrounds and responses to the transforming bootcamp experience. Unlike some other works which seem to exaggerate certain perspectives, this book is an honest, realistic and well-written collection of astute, in-depth observations. You will understand how the Corps continues to thrive while keeping their numbers small, standards high, and traditions strong.This book also analyzes the growing cultural gap between the USMC and the very society from which it comes. Ricks did extensive research into this gap and carefully weaves it in all throughout the book. He accurately describes the USMC cultural experience and compares it to what you see and don't see in today's society. If you have never given this gap much thought, you will find yourself wondering why you never noticed it before.Being a Marine, I loved this book. Being a part of American society, I was intrigued and entertained by this book. I recommend this book to any Marine and all citizens who ever considered becoming a Marine, running for public office, or know others who have done either one. I guarantee you won't be disappointed.

Making the Corps is a must-read for anyone in or interested in the Marine Corps, but more importantly, not interested in the Marine Corps. You won't be able to put it down, you'll want to call your local recruiter, you'll find yourself humming cadence as you walk down the street. You just may come to understand what "Semper Fi" really means.I found myself wishing that the transformation Platoon 3086 undergoes in the hands of its first-class Drill Instructors were the transformation of society...we could certainly use some more Honor, Courage, and Commitment in civilian life today. As the daughter of a former MSgt. who is not able to join the Corps, this book makes me nostalgic for the Corps I can't have, but also reaffirms my personal beliefs, values and attitudes (those "intangibles") which are identical to those taught to Platoon 3086...Sgt. Carey can be my "heavy" any day! Semper Fi!