Marine Corps boot camp graduation is one of the most powerful, emotional, and unforgettable ceremonies in the entire U.S. military. Whether your Marine trained at MCRD Parris Island or MCRD San Diego, this milestone marks the moment they transform from recruit to United States Marine.
This guide gives families everything they need to know — what to expect, how to prepare, what to wear, travel tips, and what makes Marine Corps graduations so unique.
The Two Marine Corps Recruit Depots
The Marine Corps trains all enlisted recruits at one of these two locations:
MCRD Parris Island — South Carolina
Home to:
- East Coast male recruits
- ALL female recruits
- Many Southern and Eastern states
Known for:
- Intense humidity
- Legendary Yellow Footprints
- Deep traditions and historic training landmarks
MCRD San Diego — California
Home to:
- West Coast male recruits
- Recruits from Western states
Known for:
- The iconic Reaper hike (mountain training at Camp Pendleton)
- Beautiful base views and California climate
Both locations produce the same Marine — the standard is universal.
What Marine Graduation Week Looks Like
Graduation doesn’t happen in just one day. It’s a multi-day experience full of emotion, pride, and first moments of connection.
Wednesday (or early week): Family Day Briefings / Check-in
Some families arrive early for optional events or briefings. Not mandatory, but helpful.
Thursday: Family Day
Arguably the most emotional day. This is your first chance to see your Marine after 13 weeks.
Expect:
- the Motivational Run (Moto Run)
- the Warrior’s Breakfast pre-briefs
- demonstrations
- meeting your Marine for the first time
- Your Marine cannot leave base yet, but you’ll spend hours together.
Friday: Graduation Day
This is the formal ceremony with the full parade deck and formations.
Expect:
- battalion formations
- pass in review
- speeches
- the iconic “I am a United States Marine” moment
- final dismissal
After dismissal, your Marine is released for 10-day leave (unless their command assigns different travel plans).
What to Wear to Marine Graduation
There is no official dress code, but families typically choose:
Marine Family Shirts
- Marine Mom
- Marine Dad
- Proud Marine Family
- EGA (Eagle, Globe & Anchor) designs
Comfortable layers
MCRD graduations are outdoors or open-air:
- Parris Island can be hot and humid
- San Diego can be cool in the morning
Comfortable walking shoes
You will walk A LOT — bleachers, parade deck, viewing areas.
Colors that look great in photos
- red
- black
- gold
- olive
Graduation photos last forever — pride apparel looks meaningful and timeless.
Weather Tips (Parris Island vs. San Diego)
Parris Island
Expect:
- heat
- humidity
- mosquitos
- possible rain
Bring:
- light clothing
- hand fans
- sunblock
- optional poncho
San Diego
Expect:
- mild temps
- chilly mornings
- warm afternoons
Bring:
- a hoodie or light jacket
- sunglasses
- sunscreen
What Families Should Bring
- base access documents / ID
- sunscreen
- camera / phone
- comfortable shoes
- snacks & water
- tissues (you’ll need them)
- a small gift for your Marine (optional)
Many families also bring:
- signs
- small flags
- matching shirts
Photographs will be everywhere — bring something that shows your pride.
The Moment You See Your Marine
This is the part families always describe the same way: “It’s overwhelming. They look different. They stand different. They move different.”
Your Marine has gone through:
- the Crucible
- the Reaper
- the Eagle, Globe, & Anchor ceremony
- 13 weeks of discipline
Family Day is often the first time they truly exhale.
Travel Tips for Parris Island and San Diego
Parris Island Tips
- Stay in Beaufort or Port Royal
- Expect humidity
- Bring bug spray
- Parking fills early — arrive 1–1.5 hours before major events
San Diego Tips
- Many families stay in Mission Valley or Old Town
- Morning traffic can be heavy
- Ceremony seating gets direct sunlight
- Bring layers for early morning chill
Marine Graduation FAQs
Do I need to buy tickets?
No. Families do not need tickets; graduations are open.
How early should we arrive?
1–1.5 hours early is ideal for seating, parking, and exploring.
Can my Marine leave base on Family Day?
No — they must remain on base.
Can I hug my Marine?
Yes — Family Day is your time together.
Can siblings attend?
Absolutely — families often coordinate matching shirts.
Is the ceremony indoors?
No. Marine graduations are outdoors on the parade deck.
Celebrate Your Marine With Apparel That Honors Their Achievement
Graduation is one of the proudest moments a family can experience. Wearing Marine family apparel helps mark the moment and creates photos your Marine will cherish for the rest of their life.
At Oak & Liberty, we are honored to support Marine families during one of the most meaningful milestones of their loved one’s journey.