To; Slipdigit & ggmitchell,
First: I went through Boot Camp at Parris Island, SC. and I actually liked it. Being rousted out of bed at 0400 was unpleasant and the non-stop training was tiring. We didn't get a break until lights out at 10:00 PM. Yet ,somehow, the camaraderie, the feeling that you were one of the platoon, (misery loves company) was a terrific emotion. In all the time I was in the USMC I never served in a place where there were any clicques. We all respected one another for what we had gone through together.
At Pendelton, e.g. we were on our own every day after evening chow. Usually one of the fifty guys in the squad room would yell " Hey, there's a pretty good movie at the theater tonight - or- who wants to go to the slopchute for a beer, etc. The invitation was open to all, no special groups - we were all comrades and we treated each other the same. This sense of belonging and acceptancewas the basis for the cohesion that always existed in any combat unit. All the men in your training unit were your friends and, later, all the men in your squad or platoon were your close buddies and you would do anything to keep them safe.
Sorry to go on but I would like to comment on Boot Camp at Parris Island. Unlike today's Corps the D.I. never got in your face to scream at you followed by an "I can't hear you" routine. They just spoke directly and firmly and our response was "yes sir" not "sir, yes sir". We were treated like adults and treated with tough love. Punishment for not moving fast enough or making the wrong move, etc, was swift and severe. But after ten weeks you look back and realize that every man in the platoon was was punished in much the same way. Unlike today I landed in sickbay twice for a few stitches during basic training. Both times at the hands of a D. I. who felt that carrying sand in my pockets until my skin was rubbed raw or a sweeping slap on the side of the head was needed.
In both cases I deserved it. I never made the same mistake twice and I went from a smart-ass city kid to being a proud Marine. Parris Island was good for me.
Forgive my rantings. I wish there was someway I could post entire descriptions and memories of training and the emotions of combat. It is impossible to tell the full story in a few words. It would take a two or three pages. Perhaps you could ask the site administrator. I don't know how. Remember, I'm 85 years old.
Also I notice you guys post your medals with your avatar. How would I do that?

Best, Larry Kirby