Third Phase
“Grass Week”

During Week 7 of boot camp, Recruits enter a critical phase known as “Grass Week.” This week focuses entirely on building the fundamentals of marksmanship, a skill every Marine must master. Recruits spend long hours lying in the prone position on the rifle range, practicing their aim while honing techniques like breath control, trigger squeeze, and sight alignment.

The name “Grass Week” comes from the environment—Recruits spend much of their time on the grass, perfecting their shooting positions and aiming downrange. The purpose of this phase is not only to prepare Recruits for qualification week but also to instill the discipline and focus necessary to perform under pressure. By the end of Grass Week, Recruits are expected to demonstrate a solid understanding of marksmanship principles, setting the foundation for success on the live-fire range.

Every Marine, A Rifleman

The phrase “Every Marine a Rifleman” reflects the Marine Corps’ philosophy that regardless of rank or specialty, every Marine must be proficient in basic infantry skills and marksmanship. Whether serving as an aviation mechanic, logistics officer, or in any other role, each Marine is expected to be combat-ready and capable of operating as a rifleman. This tradition emphasizes the importance of unity, versatility, and readiness within the Corps, ensuring that all Marines are prepared to fight as part of a cohesive force when needed, embodying the spirit of mission-first mindset and adaptability.

Snapping In

Grass Week marks a significant shift in Marine Corps basic training as recruits transition from general training to learning the fundamentals of marksmanship. This pivotal week is characterized by the following key elements:

1. Weapons Safety rules: 

• Treat every weapon as if it were loaded.
• Keep your finger straight and off the trigger until you intend to fire.
• Never point your weapon at anything you don’t intend to shoot.
• Keep your weapon on safe until you intend to fire.

2. Introduction to Firearms and Marksmanship: Recruits begin their journey into the world of marksmanship by learning the four fundamental shooting positions: standing, kneeling, sitting, and prone. Each position requires precise techniques, and recruits dedicate significant time to mastering them through instruction, drills, and practice.

3. “Snapping In”: A significant portion of Grass Week is dedicated to “snapping in.” This involves extensive practice sighting targets and dry-firing (without live ammunition) from various positions. This repetitive practice helps them refine their aiming, develop muscle memory, and build the foundation for accurate shooting.

Staying on the Move

During the week, Recruits will kick off their morning with an 8-kilometer hike designed to test their endurance and prepare them for upcoming field exercises. They’ll also face another Combat Fitness Test (CFT), which assesses their physical readiness through intense, high-energy challenges. These activities not only keep recruits physically active but also build the stamina, resilience, and mental toughness required to excel in the final phases of training and beyond.

The culmination of the Week: 13-Kilometer Hike

As the sun rises and determination ignites, Recruits set out on a 13-kilometer hike—a grueling test of both physical endurance and mental grit. With heavy packs on their backs, they traverse challenging terrain, each step a reminder of the discipline and resilience forged throughout training. It’s more than just covering distance; this hike symbolizes the commitment and inner strength required to succeed as a Marine. As they push through exhaustion, every kilometer conquered brings them closer to earning the coveted title of United States Marine—a title achieved only through dedication and unwavering resolve.

See you next week for more stories and insights as we dive into Firing Week!

I’m SgtMaj Paul Davis (USMC Ret), and I look forward to continuing this incredible journey with you. Semper Fidelis!