About this Unit
The San Diego Recruit Depot, officially known as Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego (MCRD San Diego), was established in 1921 and has served as one of the United States Marine Corps’ primary training centers for enlisted recruits west of the Mississippi River. During World War II, the depot experienced a dramatic increase in activity, training over 200,000 recruits to meet the demands of the expanding Marine Corps. Over the decades, MCRD San Diego has maintained its tradition of transforming civilians into Marines, upholding rigorous standards of discipline and honor. Today, it continues to play a vital role in preparing new Marines for service, shaping generations of warriors who serve around the globe.
Historical Facts
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Birthplace of Marines: Marine Corps Recruit Depot (MCRD) San Diego has been training new Marines since 1923, serving as the principal West Coast boot camp for the United States Marine Corps.
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Hollywood Marines: Recruits trained at MCRD San Diego are often nicknamed "Hollywood Marines," in contrast to "Hollywood Marines" from San Diego and "Real Marines" from Parris Island, due to the proximity to Hollywood, California.
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Historic Architecture: Many of the depot’s buildings were designed by the famous architect Bertram Goodhue in the Spanish Colonial Revival style, matching the look of San Diego’s Balboa Park.
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WWII Expansion: During World War II, MCRD San Diego expanded rapidly, processing over 200,000 recruits between 1942 and 1945.
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Recruit Training Regiment: The Recruit Training Regiment at San Diego is responsible for transforming thousands of civilians into Marines each year, with a rigorous 13-week training cycle.
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Drill Instructors: San Diego is renowned for its tough, highly-trained drill instructors, who maintain strict discipline and uphold the traditions of the Marine Corps.
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Iconic Yellow Footprints: Every new recruit arriving at MCRD San Diego steps onto the famous "Yellow Footprints," a symbolic start to their transformation into Marines.
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Historic Museum: The MCRD Command Museum, located on the base, preserves and displays artifacts, photographs, and stories from Marine Corps history, including notable San Diego graduates.
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Hollywood Films: MCRD San Diego has appeared in several films and documentaries, highlighting its role in shaping Marines and its unique West Coast culture.
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Legendary Graduates: Many famous Marines have graduated from San Diego, including Medal of Honor recipients and notable public figures in American history.
