COURTESY OF THE
RALEIGH OSO
OCS PREPARATION GUIDE
Some people spend an entire lifetime wondering if they
made a difference in the world. But, the Marines don't
have that problem.
Ronald Reagan, President of the United States; 1985
Contents
I.
Physical Preparation
PFT score chart ------------------------------------------------ pg. 5
Armstrong Pull-up program --------------------------------- pg. 6
Captain’s Crunch program ----------------------------------- pg. 7
OCS preparation workout ------------------------------------ pg. 8
II.
Academic Preparation
General Orders ------------------------------------------------ pg. 12
Rank Chart, Officer and Enlisted --------------------------- pg. 13
Five Paragraph Order ----------------------------------------- pg. 14
Leadership Traits ---------------------------------------------- pg. 16
III.
General Advice
MISSION OF OCS
The missing of Officer Candidates School is “To train, evaluate, and screen officer
candidates to ensure that they possess the moral, intellectual, and physical qualities for
commissioning and the leadership potential to serve successfully as company grade
officers in the Fleet Marine Force.”
Physical Preparation
Officer Candidate School (OCS) will challenge you physically and mentally. Throughout OCS the
staff and your fellow candidates will constantly evaluate you. This guide will provide you with some
information that will assist you in these evaluations. Of course, if you have any further questions you
should contact your OSO.
Being physically prepared is of immeasurable importance to your success while at OCS. Your
fitness level going to OCS will determine your ability to succeed. Officer Candidate School is not the place
to get into shape. It is your responsibility to get yourself into shape before you ship. In this regard, your
workout should consist of both cardiovascular and strength training exercises.
Your physical fitness will be measured according to the Marine Corps Physical Fitness Test
(PFT). Your PFT score is an indicator of your fitness level and of your preparedness for OCS. A PFT is
comprised of three graded events: dead hang pull-ups, crunches and a three-mile run. Each event has a
maximum score of 100 points for a total of 300 points. Keep in mind that the PFT will be your easiest
physical event at OCS. An outstanding performance in one area can help offset a poor performance in
another area, but only minimally. Someone that can do 20 pull-ups, but is not able to complete the 3-mile
run under 24 minutes is not going to be very successful at OCS. The key to success is to have a balanced
workout regimen.
On the following pages you will find a breakdown of the point scale for the PFT and example
workout programs. These programs are recommendations and you should consult with your OSO to
determine in which areas you need the most work.
While at OCS, you will be running 6 days a week. Starting and maintaining a run program prior to
your attending OCS will be essential to your success. In order to ship to OCS the candidate needs to have a
run time below twenty-four minutes. This is the slowest acceptable time and represents the minimum
standard. Your experience at OCS will be harder than it has to be if you are running this slowly when you
ship. As a shipping candidate you want your run time to be at or below twenty-one minutes. The physical
2
program at OCS assumes a high level of fitness going in and the candidates are expected to perform from
day one. Running is included in almost all of the training events at OCS. The pace that OCC, PLC
Combined and PLC Juniors begins at 8.5 minutes per mile and is worked down to 7.5-minute per mile pace
by the completion of the cycle. For PLC Seniors the beginning pace is 8 minutes per mile and 7 minutes
per mile by completion. There is not enough time in the training schedule for a candidate to achieve these
gains while they are at OCS.
Thus, you need to be running on your own prior to reporting to OCS. You will need to motivate
yourself to hit the road and log some miles in order to get in shape. This simple advice is often the hardest
to follow but is the most essential: Get out and run. There are many articles and workout programs out
there; everyone from Runners World to the OCS webpage will have workouts that are viable. You will
need to find a program that will work for you and stick to it. You will see no results unless you put in the
work. Included below is the workout preparation schedule from the OCS website.
A final word on working on your run program: find someone to run with. A running partner will
motivate and push you to work harder. It will also make your runs more enjoyable and therefore you are
more likely to actually get out there and run.
3
PHYSICAL TRAINING OVERVIEW
This chart gives examples of the physical activities conducted at OCS. Some of
these are graded events and will factor into your evaluation. You will have several
opportunities to practice the graded event before you are evaluated.
UBDs: Upper Body Development Course
Run Circuit: A circular run course that
consist of many exercises that are designed
to build endurance and overall body
strength.
Obstacle Course: A 100 meter long series
of obstacles that must be negotiated in less
than two minutes.
Combat Readiness Test: Consists of
physical events that one could likely face
in combat.
Fartlek Course: A 3 to 4 mile trail, which
consists of about 12 different exercises
designed to build endurance.
Confidence & Tarzan Courses: A series
of high obstacles created to build a
candidate’s self confidence while teaching
military skills.
Conditioning Hikes: These range from 3
to 15 miles with combat gear.
Pugil Sticks: Simulates close combat
fighting and tests the candidates
aggressiveness.
Endurance Course: A 3.5 mile course
testing a candidate’s physical endurance
and ability to negotiate various obstacles.
(PLC Combined, PLC Seniors and OCC)
Combat Course: This is a 1.5 mile course
which simulates a combat environment by
stressing all around security and noise
discipline while negotiating a series of
obstacles.
Stamina Course: A 2 mile course testing a
candidate’s physical endurance and ability
to negotiate various obstacles. (PLC
Juniors)
4
Points
100
99
98
97
96
95
94
93
92
91
90
89
88
87
86
85
84
83
82
81
80
79
78
77
76
75
74
73
72
71
70
69
68
67
66
65
64
63
62
61
60
59
58
57
56
55
54
53
52
51
50
Pull ups
Flex arm
hang (sec)
20
70
69
68
19
67
66
18
65
64
63
17
62
61
16
60
59
58
15
57
56
14
55
54
53
13
52
51
12
50
49
48
11
47
46
10
45
5
Crunches 3-mile run 3-mile run
(male)
(female)
100
18:00
21:00
99
18:10
21:10
98
18:20
21:20
97
18:30
21:30
96
18:40
21:40
95
18:50
21:50
94
19:00
22:00
93
19:10
22:10
92
19:20
22:20
91
19:30
22:30
90
19:40
22:40
89
19:50
22:50
88
20:00
23:00
87
20:10
23:10
86
20:20
23:20
85
20:30
23:30
84
20:40
23:40
83
20:50
23:50
82
21:00
24:00
81
21:10
24:10
80
21:20
24:20
79
21:30
24:30
78
21:40
24:40
77
21:50
24:50
76
22:00
25:00
75
22:10
25:10
74
22:20
25:20
73
22:30
25:30
72
22:40
25:40
71
22:50
25:50
70
23:00
26:00
69
23:10
26:10
68
23:20
26:20
67
23:30
26:30
66
23:40
26:40
65
23:50
26:50
64
24:00
27:00
63
24:10
27:10
62
24:20
27:20
61
24:30
27:30
60
24:40
27:40
59
24:50
27:50
58
25:00
28:00
57
25:10
28:10
56
25:20
28:20
55
25:30
28:30
54
25:40
28:40
53
25:50
28:50
52
26:00
29:00
51
26:10
29:10
50
26:20
29:20
Armstrong Pull-up Program
Major Charles Lewis Armstrong developed this program. Major Armstrong developed this
workout to prepare himself to set a new world record in the number of pull-ups completed in a single
exercise session. The use of another modified version of this program by the Marine Option Midshipmen at
the University of Rochester in the last two years has proved to be dramatic.
Midshipmen using this program are counseled to make a sincere effort to use the program
regularly, to do the exercises each day. The key feature of this program is its simplicity, but will result in
substantial benefits if performed on a consistent daily basis.
The program provides the necessities for any successful physical improvement regime, namely
variety, overload and regularity. Users have achieved remarkable results in only 6-8 weeks. This means that
most, if not all, have been able to achieve the performance level they desired, a set of 20 repetitions, as long
as they are consistent with the program.
It cannot be overemphasized that this program depends upon regularity. Daily performance of the
exercises listed in the following paragraphs holds the true key to reaching and maintaining the 20-repetition
level.
The Morning Routine
Each morning, perform 3 maximum effort sets of normal push-ups. This is very important!! The
push-up is one of the best exercises for strengthening the entire set of muscles making up the shoulder
girdle. Major Armstrong described this morning routine in the following manner: After rising, I would drop
to the deck and do my first set of push-ups. I would then move into the head and start my morning toilet. I
would return after a few minutes and do my second maximum effort set after which, I would go back into
the head and shave. After shaving I would return to the bedroom and complete the third and final set.
Having completed all of the push-ups, I was awake and ready for a relaxing shower.
This routine should be followed during the entire training period. Since it takes most of us at least
four weeks to reach our goals, you will probably find that you have inadvertently established a morning
routine that is easy enough to keep as a lifetime habit. If not you will at least appreciate the morning shower
a little more.
I have noted that the push-up routine helps to alleviate any soreness during the first couple of
weeks. I recommend that you use the push-up routine every day during this period so that you feel more
comfortable during your initial adjustment to this regime of exercises.
Training Regimen
The following represents the heart of the training program. I recommend that you do not attempt
the pull-ups until two to three hours after the push-up routine is completed. The program is conveniently
divided into five training days. This is easily translated into a Monday to Friday training schedule. It is
important to cease the pull-ups for two days, Saturday and Sunday. Further it is necessary to use
consecutive days (not to skip days) when on the pull-up routine. Finally, it is obviously more important to
do the pull-ups than the push-ups.
This training program was specifically designed to improve performance in the overhand pull-up
(palms facing away). The overhand method is the preferred method, but for now do what you need to in
order to complete the most repetitions for your PFT. Mix up your training between underhand and
overhand until you can do twenty both ways. The program depends upon quality exercises – number of
repetitions is secondary. When you are doing these exercises, you should concentrate on perfect execution
of each repetition. The only person you can fool with less than your best is yourself.
Day 1
Five maximum effort sets. Rest 90 seconds between each set. Do not concern yourself with
numbers. You will find that you increase the numbers in the last two sets before you see much
improvement in the first three. Make sure that each set is a maximum effort set.
Day 2
Pyramid day. Start the pyramid with one repetition, the next set has two, and the next set has three.
Continue in this fashion until you miss a set (e.g. your last set was four then five, your next set should be
six but you only do four repetitions. You missed the set) Do one more set at maximum effort. Rest 10
seconds for each repetition in the previous set.
Day 3
Do three training sets (training sets are defined later) with a normal grip (palms away or toward
you, hands slightly wider than shoulder width). Rest 60 seconds between each set. Slide your hands
together and palms toward you so your little fingers are 0-4 inches apart and complete three more training
sets resting 60 seconds between each set. Finally do three training sets with a wide overhand grip (palms
facing away) resting 60 seconds between each set.
6
Day 4
Do the maximum number of training sets that you can accomplish. Rest 60 seconds between each
set. You do training sets until you fail to do a perfect training set. This day can wind up being the longest
training day as you continue with the program because you will find it easy to do lots of training sets. If
you can do more than nine training sets, increase by one repetition next week.
Day 5
Repeat the day that you found to be the hardest in the previous four days. This may change from
week to week. You can also try to doing weighted pull-ups or a pull-up assist machine for this day.
Training Sets
Training sets are easy to define, but require some experimentation to determine for the individual
participating in the program. A training set has a specified number of repetitions. That means that one
individual may have seven repetitions in his training set, but another could have more or less. The key to
determining the proper number of repetitions in a training set comes on day 3. You must perform 9 training
sets that day. If you only do 12 repetitions on a max effort set, then your training set would probably only
be 1-3 repetitions. Remember, it is much more important that you complete all nine sets than doing an extra
rep and only completing 6 or 7 sets. Day 3 calls for you to do nine training sets. Adjust your training set so
that you can complete this routine properly.
The best gauge for the number of repetitions in a training set comes on day 4. If you successfully
complete day 3, try increasing the number of repetitions in your training set by one when you do day 4. If
you complete at least 9 training sets, then you know your training set should be that higher number. If you
do less than nine sets, stick with the number you used for day 3.
It is important that you do not change the repetitions in a training set in midstream. When you
schedule yourself to do the day’s routine using three repetitions in your training set, do not change it to two
when the exercises get hard. If you miss, you miss. There is always tomorrow.
Final Thoughts on the Armstrong pull-up program
This program will work for anyone who makes a sincere effort. You may notice a drop in your
maximum effort set. This is a normal physiological reaction called "tear down." As you continue, you will
improve. Most of my midshipmen were able to reach the 20- repetition level in a short period of time. They
started the program able to do only twelve to fifteen repetitions. If you are not at this level, it will take
longer than four weeks to reach 20 repetitions. However, if you stay with the program, you will reach this
goal.
Captain’s Crunch Program
This workout is based on the same simplistic approach to fitness training as Major Armstrong’s
pull-up program. This program should be done Monday through Friday directly after the pull-up portion of
Major Armstrong’s workout.
Day 1
Do three maximum effort sets. Rest 60-90 seconds between each set. As soon as you stop (even
for one second), that set is complete.
Day 2
Pyramid day. Begin with 20 repetitions. Each consecutive set should increase by ten until you can
not complete the required amount without pausing. Then do a maximum effort set. Rest 1 second per
crunch of the previous set.
Day 3
Do five 20-second sets. If you have to pause between repetitions, that is ok for this days workout.
However, do as many as you can in each 20-second set as if you were taking the PFT. Rest 25 seconds
between each set.
Day 4
Do 50 repetitions as fast as possible (without stopping if you can). Rest for 60 seconds. Do 30
repetitions as fast as possible. Rest for 45 seconds. Do 20 repetitions as fast as possible. Rest for 30
seconds. Do a maximum effort set.
Day 5
Do as many crunches as possible in 2 minutes just like the PFT. Rest for 90 seconds and do a
maximum effort set.
Training Sets and Final thoughts
A maximum effort set is the most crunches you can do without pausing. Once you stop, that set is
complete. Sets on days 1 and 2 should be done in this manner, as well as, day 4 if you can. Days 3 and 5
focus on the maximum number you can do in a given time period instead of the maximum number you can
do without stopping.
7
Week
Mon
1
2 Mile Run
(Slow
Steady)
MILEAGE Push Ups
6
3 sets of
10
Pull ups 3
sets of 3
2
MILEAGE
10
3
MILEAGE
10
Crunches
3 sets of
20
Tricep
Dips 3
sets of 15
Bend &
Thrusts
10/10/10
2.5 Mile
Run
(Steady)
Push Ups
3 sets of
15
Pull ups
(MAX or
20)
Crunches
3 sets of
25
Tricep
Dips 3
sets of 15
Bend &
Thrusts
15/10/10
4 Mile Run
(Slow
Steady)
Push Ups
(MAX or
50)
Pull ups 3
sets of 5
Tues
1 Mile
Interval
Sprints
2.5 Mile
Run
TEMPO/
CHANGE
PACE
1.5 Mile
Run in
Boots
(STEADY
STATE)
Wed
Thur
REST
Push ups
3 sets of
10
Pull ups
(MAX or
20)
Crunches
3 sets of
20
Tricep
Dips 3
sets of 15
Bend &
Thrusts
10/10/10
REST
1 Mile
interval
sprints
Push ups
3 sets of
20
1.5 Mile
Interval
Sprints
Fri
60 Mins. 3 Mile Run
Of Cross TIMED
Training
Push ups
3 sets of
10
Pull ups 3
sets of 3
Crunches
(Max or
100)
Tricep
Dips 3
sets of 15
Bend &
Thrusts
15/10/10
60 Mins. 4 Mile Run
Of Cross MATCH 3
Training
MILE
PACE,
EASE
DOWN
LAST
MILE
Push ups
3 sets of
15
Pull ups 3
sets of 3
Crunches
(Max or
100)
Tricep
Dips 3
sets of 15
Bend &
Thrusts
15/15/10
60 Mins. 3 Mile Run
Of Cross TIMED
Training
Push ups
3 sets of
20
Pull ups 3
sets of 5
Pull ups
(MAX or
20)
8
Sat
Sun
REST
REST
REST
4
MILEAGE
13
5
Crunches
Crunches
3 sets of
3 sets of
25
25
Tricep
Tricep
Dips 3
Dips 3
sets of 20
sets of 20
Bend &
Bend &
Thrusts
Thrusts
15/15/10
15/15/15
5 Mile Run 2 Mile Run Push ups
(Steady) in Boots
(MAX or
60)
Push Ups
3 sets of
20
Pull ups
(MAX or
20)
Crunches
3 sets of
30
Tricep
Dips 3
sets of 20
Bend &
Thrusts
20/15/15
2 Mile Run 6 Mile Run
in Boots
(SLOW
STEADY)
MILEAGE
15
Crunched
3 sets of
40
MILEAGE
17
Pull ups 3
sets of 5
Push ups
3 sets of
20
Pull ups 3
sets of 5
Crunches
3 sets of
30
Tricep
Dips 3
sets of 20
Bend &
Thrusts
20/15/15
Push ups 3 Mile Run
3 sets of
for PFT
25
Time
Crunches
(Max or
100)
Tricep
Dips 3
sets of 20
Bend &
Thrusts
20/20/15
60 Mins. 4 Mile Run
Of Cross STRONG/
Training
TEMP
Push ups
(MAX OR
60)
Pull ups 3
sets of 8
6
2 Mile
interval
sprints
Crunches
(Max or
100)
Tricep
Dips 3
sets of 20
Bend &
Thrusts
15/15/15
60 Mins. 4 Mile Run
Of Cross 1ST MILE
Training STEADY
NEXT 3
TEMPO
REST
REST
Push ups
3 sets of
25
Pull ups
(MAX or
20)
Crunches
3 sets of
40
Pull ups 3
sets of 8
Crunches
(Max or
100 inside
of 2 mins)
Tricep dips
Tricep
3 sets of
Dips 3
25
sets of 25
Bend &
Bend &
Thrusts
Thrusts
20/20/15
20/20/15
5 Mile Run 2 Mile Run Push ups 3 Mile Run
(TEMPO) in Boots
3 sets 30 STEADY
Push Ups
(MAX or
65)
9
Tricep
Dips 3
sets of 25
Bend &
Thrusts
20/20/20
60 Mins. 7 Mile Run
Of Cross
SLOW
Training STEADY
Push ups
(MAX
SET)
REST
7
MILEAGE
16
Pull ups 3
sets to
fatigue
Crunches
3 sets to
fatigue
Tricep
Dips 3
sets of 30
Bend&
Thrusts
20/20/20
3 Mile Run 3 Mile Run
FOR TIME in Boots
Pull ups 3
sets to
fatigue
Crunched
s 3 sets to
fatigue
Tricep
Dips 3
sets of 30
Bend &
Thrusts
25/20/20
REST
4 Mile Run
STEADY
Push ups
3 sets of
30
Pull ups
(MAX)
Crunches
3 sets to
fatigue
Tricep
Dips 3
sets of 35
Bend &
Thrust
25/25/20
8
3 Mile Run 2 Mile Run
(STRONG in Boots
/ TEMPO)
MILEAGE Push Ups
9
3 sets of
30
Pull ups 3
sets to
fatigue
Crunches
3 sets to
fatigue
Tricep
Dips 3
sets of 40
Bend&
Thrusts
20/20/20
Push ups
3 sets 30
4 Mile Run
TEMPO
Pull ups 3
sets to
fatigue
Crunched
s 3 sets to
fatigue
Tricep
Dips 3
sets of 40
Pull ups 3
sets to
fatigue
Crunches
3 sets to
fatigue
Tricep
Dips 3
sets of 30
Bend &
Thrusts
25/20/20
60 Mins. 6 Mile Run
Of Cross TEMPO/
Training CHANGE
Push ups
3 sets of
30
Pull ups 3
sets to
fatigue
Crunches
(Max in 2
mins)
Tricep
Dips 3
sets of 35
Bend &
Thrusts
25/25/20
REST
60 Mins.
Of Cross
Training
Push ups
3 sets of
30
Pull ups
(MAX)
Crunches
(MAX)
Tricep
Dips 3
sets of 40
Bend &
Thrusts
20/20/20
10
REST
REST
Additional workout advice
Incorporating a weight-training regimen to your workout will be of benefit to you. Resistance
training has been shown to improve related physical activities and reduce injuries. Weight training will
also help prevent tendonitis and other ligament related injuries that occur from intense workouts.
Along with your workouts there are several preventative measures that need to be taken in order to
reduce the likelihood of training injuries.
1. Stretching should be done for a minimum of 20-30 seconds on each muscle group both before and
after a workout. Stretching should also be done on days that are considered rest days. You can’t
stretch too much. Some of the most common muscle groups that are injured due to poor flexibility
are:
a. Quadriceps
b. Hamstrings
c. Calves
d. Groin
e. Pectorals
f. Biceps
g. Triceps
2. Hydration
a. Be sure that you are consuming enough water during your exercise regimen. It has been
proven that improper hydration can significantly reduce the quality of athletic
performance. A simple way to check your hydration level is to observe the color of your
urine. If your urine is clear then you are properly hydrated, anything darker means you
need to drink more water. Hydration will play an even more important role when you
arrive to OCS and the demands that are put on your body are increased.
3. Proper Running Shoes
a. Running shoes should fit properly and be designed for running. Most athletic equipment
stores will have someone that can advise you on the style of shoe that you should
purchase based on your foot and step. You should change your running shoes about
every 250-300 miles regardless of their appearance. Do not take new shoes to OCS. You
need to take a pair of broken in running shoes with you to OCS.
11
Academic Preparation
THE GENERAL ORDERS OF THE GUARD
1. To take charge of this post and all government property in view.
2. To walk my post in a military manner, keeping always on the alert, observing everything that takes place
within sight or hearing.
3. To report all violations of orders I am instructed to enforce.
4. To repeat all calls from posts more distant from the guardhouse than my own.
5. To quit my post only when properly relieved.
6. To receive, obey, and pass on to the sentry who relieves me: all orders from the commanding officer,
officer of the day, and officers and non-commissioned officers of the guard only.
7. To talk to no one except in the line of duty.
8. To give the alarm in case of fire or disorder.
9. To call the corporal of the guard in any case not covered by instructions.
10. To salute, all officers and all colors and standards not cased.
11. To be especially watchful at night, and during the time for challenging, to challenge all persons on or
near my post, and to allow no one to pass without proper authority.
12
13
Five Paragraph Order
You will be required to learn, create and execute a five paragraph order while at OCS. It is in your best
interest to memorize it now, while you have the time and are not facing the stress of OCS. The five
paragraph order is comprised of the following subjects:
Situation
Mission
Execution
Admin. & Logistics
Command and Signals
Hence the acronym SMEAC
1) Situation: The first paragraph of the order is the Situation, and it is divided into three areas; enemy,
friendly, and attachments and detachments.
A) Enemy Forces: The first subparagraph of the situation paragraph is enemy forces. This is
Paragraph (1a), Appendix A. It is further divided into three subparagraphs.
1) Weather and Astronomical Data: Weather is stated as it relates to the duration of the
operation. Also included under enemy forces is the astronomical data, which must be
stated as to how it affects the operation, such as whether there is going to be a full moon
out during a night patrol.
2) Terrain: The second subparagraph of enemy forces is terrain. You must analyze how
terrain will influence your unit’s size, organization, and equipment.
3) Enemy Situation: The third subparagraph is the enemy situation. This is best described
by the acronym SALUTE.
a) Size: What size does the enemy normally operate at? What is the best
estimate of the enemy's strength?
b) Activity: What activity has the enemy been engaged in? Has he been
defending, attacking, conducting ambushes or raids, or something else?
c) Location: Include the enemy's known location in your area of operation, the
areas he favors for movement, and the latest enemy sightings.
d) Unit: What type of enemy unit is operating in your area (infantry,
mechanized, support, militia, guerrilla)? If known, mention the unit.
e) Time: What was the time of the last enemy sighting?
f) Equipment: What type of equipment does he have available for use (clothing,
weapons, fire support)?
B) Friendly Situation: When we speak about friendly forces, you should remember the acronym
HAS.
1) Higher: The mission of your next higher unit will be, in most cases, the mission of
your parent unit.
2) Adjacent: The location and planned actions of adjacent units must be stated. e.g., "First
and third platoons continue to man the left and right flank of the company defensive
perimeter." If your operation is a patrol, then include the mission and routes of other
patrols operating in your area. Also include security posts in your area.
14
3) Support: The fire support, which is available for your patrol, is included. State which
units are available to support your patrol and any on-call targets that you have. The oncall targets could be targets that have already been established by someone else or they
could be targets that you request. The types of areas that you should have for on-call
targets are danger areas, crossroads, avenues of approach that the enemy might use, etc.
An example of this subparagraph is, "B Btry 1/12 is in support of our battalion. The
60mm mortars are in general support of the company with priority of fires to our patrol.
Our on-call targets are AB 1001 located at the draw at grid 13245678, AB 1002 located
at the river ford at grid 12435687 and AB 1003 located at the crossroads at grid
12347865." Remember you are cheating yourself and your Marines if you have support
available and don't plan for its use on your operation.
C) Attachments and Detachments: The last subparagraph of the first paragraph is attachments and
detachments. Attachments and detachments relate to units attached or detached from your unit.
You must include the effective time of detachment or attachment. As a small unit leader, you will
rarely have any attachments or detachments.
2) Mission: Paragraph (2), Appendix A of the patrol order is the Mission statement. This is a clear, concise
statement of the task to accomplish. It should answer who, what, where, when and why. It includes grid
coordinates and times.
3) Execution: In the execution paragraph, you must be as specific, detailed and comprehensive as possible.
This paragraph is divided into three major subparagraphs.
A) Concept of Operation: The first subparagraph (3a), Appendix A is the concept of operation. It
includes the overall plan. This is a general overview of how the mission will be accomplished. It
includes the basic formations that will be used.
B) Tasks: The second subparagraph (3b), Appendix A assigns specific tasks, both in and out of the
objective area, for elements, teams, and individuals. This is a detailed listing of how each element,
team, and/or individual will accomplish their part of the mission. It will include team formations,
who is the base of the movements, tasks within the objective area, etc. Each subparagraph of
Tasks will be devoted to one specific element of the unit. It will take them from start to finish of
the entire patrol before you move onto the next element's tasks. The tasks of the attachments
should be covered last. The number of subparagraphs under Tasks will usually be the number of
elements that you have in the patrol. For fire team sized units, you may devote one subparagraph
to each member of your fire team.
C) Coordinating Instructions: The third subparagraph (3c), Appendix A is coordinating
instructions. The following should be covered:
* Times of departure and return may be stated in general or
specific terms.
* The primary and alternate route the patrol intends to use for
movement to and from the objective.
* Checkpoints, which may be assigned by higher authority. They
are points on the ground on or near where the patrol
must pass.
* The actual procedures for departure and reentry of friendly
areas.
* Formations, which must be planned for movement of the
patrol to and from the objective area.
* Actions for "Immediate Action Drills."
* Actions at rallying points, which are places where the patrol
can assemble or reorganize.
* Where, when, and by whom the debriefing will be conducted.
Generally, it is held immediately after the patrol.
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4) Administration and Logistics: Administration and Logistics are contained in paragraph four, Appendix
A.
A) Beans: How many rations will be taken on patrol? Who will draw and distribute the rations?
When is the next resupply of chow?
B) Bullets: Are arms and ammunition adequate and appropriate for the mission assigned. How
much ammo is being taken? When is the next resupply of ammo expected?
C) Bad Guys: There has to be a method for the handling of prisoners. Use your unit SOP
(Standard Operating Procedures) for handling EPW's (Enemy Prisoners of War).
D) Bandages: This covers the handling of dead and wounded Marines.
1) Be specific in your instructions concerning the transportation of seriously
wounded versus non-seriously wounded in action.
2) Every attempt must be made to take our dead Marines home.
3) If a corpsman is a member of the unit, state his location during movement and
the various phases of the patrol.
5) Command and Signals: The final paragraph, Appendix A of the patrol order is the command and
signal.
A)
Command: There are considerations, which must be spelled out in the command portion
of this paragraph. The chain of command should be as detailed as in the warning order. The
location of the unit leader should be stated for each phase of the operation.
B)
Signal: There are various considerations contained in the signal portion of this paragraph.
1) Cover all signals to be used, such as hand and arm, pyro, and audible.
2) State the communications plan with higher headquarters, to include call signs, and
primary/alternate frequencies. Reports such as SITREP's, POSREP's, and SALUTE are
discussed in this paragraph.
3) State the challenge and password procedure to be used and procedures for departing
and reentering friendly lines.
LEADERSHIP TRAITS (JJ DID TIE BUCKLE)

Leadership traits: (or characteristics) Those qualities of personality which are of greatest
assistance in obtaining confidence, respect, obedience, and loyal cooperation. These traits provide
some of the standards for which you will be evaluated while at OCS. Your ability to incorporate
these principles into your life will help make you a better leader.
JUDGMENT –
JUSTICE –
DEPENDABILITY –
INTEGRITY –
DECISIVENESS –
TACT –
INITIATIVE –
ENTHUSIASM –
BEARING –
UNSELFISHNESS –
The ability to weigh facts and possible solutions on which to base sound
decisions.
Giving reward and punishment according to the merits of the case in question.
The ability to administer a system off rewards and punishments impartially
and consistently.
The certainty of proper performance of duty.
The uprightness of character and soundness of moral principles. The quality
of truthfulness and honesty.
The ability to make decisions promptly and to announce them in a clear,
forceful manner.
The ability to deal with others without creating hostility.
Taking action in the absence of orders.
The display of sincere interest and exuberance in the performance of duty.
Creating of a favorable impression in carriage, appearance, and personal
conduct at all times.
Avoidance of providing for one’s own comfort and personal advancement at
the expense of others.
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COURAGE –
KNOWLEDGE –
LOYALTY –
ENDURANCE –
The mental quality that recognizes fear of danger or criticism, but enables a
Marine to proceed to the face of it with calmness and firmness.
The understanding of a science of an art; the range of one’s information,
including professional knowledge and an understanding of your Marines.
The quality of faithfulness to country, Corps, and unit, and to one’s seniors,
subordinates and peers.
The mental and physical stamina measured by ones ability to withstand pain,
fatigue, stress, and hardship.
LEADERSHIP PRINCIPLES.

Leadership Principles: Guides for the proper exercise of command. These principles will make
you a more effective leader if you follow them.
Be technically and tactically proficient.
Know yourself and seek self-improvement.
Know your men and look out for their welfare.
Keep your men informed.
Set the example.
Ensure that the task is understood, supervised and accomplished.
Train your men as a team.
Make sound and timely decisions.
Develop a sense of responsibility in your subordinates.
Employ your command in accordance with its capabilities.
Seek responsibility and take responsibility for your actions.
THOUGHTS ON LEADERSHIP
"Leaders must have a strong sense of the great responsibility of their office; the resources they will expend
in war are human lives." - MCDP 1
"Success in battle is not a function of how many show up, but who they are."
- General Robert Barrow
"Leadership is the sum of those qualities of intellect, human understanding, and moral character that
enables a person to inspire and to control a group of people successfully. "
- General John A. Lejeune
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History
- General Jacob Zeilin adopted the Marine Corps Emblem, the Eagle, Globe and Anchor, in 1868.
The Globe depicts the western hemisphere, to show the. The eagle and the fouled anchor
symbolize that the Corps are both American and maritime.
- The Marine Corps Motto is Semper Fidelis, which means Always Faithful. The motto was
adopted in 1883.
- The Continental Congress founded the Marine Corps on 10 November 1775. The 13th
Commandant of the Marine Corps, Major General John A. Lejeune, established the birthday
celebration.
- Two Marines have received two Medals of Honor, Gunnery Sergeant Dan Daly and Major General
Smedley Butler.
- Major General Lewis “Chesty” Puller received 5 navy crosses.
- The Mameluke Sword was awarded to Lieutenant Pressley O’Bannon after the battle of Tripoli. It
is the oldest weapon still in use in the military today.
- Opha Mae Johnson was the first female marine.
- A. A. Cunningham was the first marine aviator..
- The term leatherneck was given to early Marines; because of the leather piece they wore around
their neck to prevent from an enemy’s saber strike. The collar on the present day dress coat is
raised and stiff to remind us of early Marines that wore the uniform.
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GENERAL ADVICE
1) Don’t bring more than the absolute minimum items. You will be required to move with speed and
intensity for about a mile carrying all of your belongings. It is also a good idea to pack your personal
belongings in several clear zip lock bags labeled with your last name. You will be subject to a contraband
inspection upon pickup and your personal effects are more likely to remain together if packed in this
fashion.
a. Required items for OCS (Both males and females)
i. $300 cash or travelers checks to purchase your small and large bag issue items.
ii. Basic overnight hygiene items. Razor, shaving cream, soap deodorant, toothbrush,
toothpaste.
iii. Bring glasses, if needed, NO CONTACT LENSES.
iv. If you have dependants bring marriage certificates, divorce decrees, birth certificates,
child support documents and adoption papers.
v. Rental and mortgage agreements.
vi. OCC candidates need their POV registrations and proof of insurance. (If driving to
OCS.)
vii. Rugged wristwatch.
viii. If returning to OCS or prior service member bring previously issued MARPAT
uniforms and tan boots.
ix. Two sets of appropriate civilian attire, including the set you will wear to OCS.
a. Trousers. Belts will be worn if there are belt loops. Blue jeans, cutoffs,
unhemmed, ragged, patched or tom trousers are not authorized. Additionally,
skirts and shorts are not authorized.
b. Shirt / Blouse. See-through transparent is not authorized. Tank tops,
haltertops, sweatshirts, PT gear, or clothing with slogans will not be worn.
Flimsy or excessively brief items are also prohibited. Shirts will be tucked in.
Shirts with out a collar will not be worn. Buttons will not be missing. Shirts will
not be unbuttoned below the second button.
c. Jackets / Coats. Will be in good taste and will not have slogans or patches
(except blazer patches).
d. Other Items. Excessive jewelry will not be worn. Religious items are
permitted. Body piercing, with the exception of women's earrings, is not
permitted. Male candidates will not wear earrings. No candidate will wear any
items through any previously pierced body parts such as tongue studs, navel
rings, or sub-dermal devices. No military clothing will be worn with civilian
clothing (web belt, socks, etc). Cowboy hats, baseball hats, and sweatbands are
not authorized. Candidates will not carry or operate radios, TV's, or stereos.
Ragged or torn, wrinkled items with body odor stains or soiled items are not
allowed.
xi. Bring your running shoes and insure that they are packed where they are readily accessible
upon arriving at OCS.
xii. Refer to the OCS website for any additional items that need to be brought to OCS.
b. Required Items (Females Only)
i. Three sturdy sports bras.
ii. Feminine hygiene products.
iii. Results of pap smear obtained in the past year.
iv. Birth Control, if applicable. Bring your prescription and enough to
last the entire training cycle.
v. Bring make up.
vi. Hair accessories.
c. Do NOT bring any of the following items with you to OCS:
c. Weapons, to include: Pocket knives, Guns, K-Bars, E-tools, Gerber /
Leathermans, Lg. Scissors, Straight Razors, etc.
d. Electronics, to include: Cell phones, Pagers, Radio/CD Players, Video
Games, Cameras, Flash lights, or Novelties.
e. Drugs/Supplements, to include: Aspirin, Motrin, Tylenol, Midol, Body
Building Supplements, Ephedrine, Multi-vitamins, Caffeine, Synephrine,
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Salicin, Vivarin, No Doze, Tobacco, Amino Acids, Steroids, Cold
Medicine, Narcotics or Recreational Drugs.
2) Stay in close contact with family and friends through correspondence while at OCS. Mail is very up
lifting and motivating during the long days at OCS. Your family will be able to remind you of your goals
and reinforce your resolve to complete the course.
3) Take advantage of your weekend liberty. You will be awarded the opportunity for liberty after your third
week at OCS. Get together with your fellow candidates and take a cab off base. Many candidates will pool
their resources and rent a hotel room for the night. Use your liberty to relax, do some laundry, call home
and prepare yourself for the coming week. Remember, liberty is a privilege, not a right. You will not
always have weekend liberty privileges.
4) You will most likely have prior enlisted Marines in your platoon. Seek them out and follow their advice.
They have gone through a similar experience at boot camp and can educate you in the subtleties of the
training you are receiving. At the same time realize they are candidates, just as you are, and are not your
instructors. Observe and learn from them but respect the fact that they are undergoing the same training.
5) Use your time wisely and study your knowledge when you have the time. During classes stay awake
and pay close attention. These two points will pay off when it comes test time and you will be able to get
more rest.
6) Do at least one max set of pull-ups each night/morning. If you don’t do these pull-ups you won’t be able
to maintain your pull-ups for your PFT.
7) Use your liberty wisely. Most importantly rest your body. Then take time to prepare yourself and your
uniform for the upcoming week. Remember liberty is a privilege and not a right. It is given to you to
determine who is disciplined enough to do what needs to be done to succeed.
8) Take care of your body. If you have blisters, have them checked out by the corpsman. Trying to “tough
it out” will do nothing but causing you to do serious damage to yourself.
9) Hydrate Hydrate Hydrate. Drink at least 6-8 canteens or water a day. Drink more on humps and during
field evolutions.
10) Ensure that your boots fit properly and during training make sure that the boots are not laced so tightly
that they restrict the flow of blood to the feet.
11) Wean yourself off of caffeine before arriving to OCS, there will be no caffeine available and it will
ease your transition.
12) To be a good leader you must also be a good follower. Too many cooks spoil the soup, so when you
are not holding a billet obey the orders of those who are and when you are in a leadership position use that
opportunity to shine.
13) Always remember you are not at OCS by yourself, you have a whole platoon of men/women in the
exact same position as yourself. Help one another out; you are not there to compete against one another,
but to prove you are qualified to be Marine Corps officers.
14) Believe it or not, your staff is there to help you succeed. They are trying to convey a lesson through
their periods of personal instruction that they offer. Also pay attention and learn from the mistakes of
others.
15) If it were easy, everyone would be a Marine.
What you can expect upon arriving to OCS
When you first arrive you will spend the first two days doing in processing tasks, (i.e. physicals,
immunizations and paperwork). Take this time to orient yourself as much as you are able to your new
environment. You will have one or two days where not a lot is expected of you, other than to quietly wait
in line. This is not the OCS experience and you should be prepared for the switch. Rest and hydrate as
much as you are able because your first graded event occurs within two or three days. Your initial PFT will
determine if you get inducted into training, be ready and do your best. This initial PFT will be your first
impression presented to the company staff. After your initial PFT, you will be introduced to the company
staff that will train you. At this point, your OCS experience truly begins.
Helpful websites
www.usmc.mil
www.ocs.usmc.mil
www.oo-rah.com
www.tbs.usmc.mil
www.runnersworld.com
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