Parris Island has been transforming recruits into Marines since Nov. 1, 1915. Today, approximately 20,000 recruits come to Parris Island annually for the chance to earn the title United States Marine through an enduring 13 weeks of rigorous, transformative training. Parris Island is home to entry-level enlisted Marines training for 50 percent of males and 100 percent of females in the Marine Corps.
Located here are our long-form, personal stories about triumph and perseverance.