Young Marines Reveal Where They Came From. It Was A Cold In Their Tent

Back in the mid-1980s I got a most wonderful assignment. To make a series of one-hour television specials about the real experiences of American soldiers – Marines – sailors – infantry. I was assigned to units and left free from any editorial control by either the military or PBS or the sponsor who gave me a grant, United Technologies Corporation.

For the Marines I went with a platoon to North Norway in the midst of winter. They were training for cold-weather combat. Fighting Norwegian troops in mock battles.

My team and I were assigned to be with the Marines in their tents. A charcoal burning fireplace at the center providing heat. Sleeping bags in a large circle around a pole that held up the tents. It was rough. It was cold. And my nose was black from the smoke when I got up each morning.

But being living and working with them as they persevered and succeeded is why this scene is so unusual. These enlisted Marine recruits told their life stories and experiences for real.

The majority of enlisted recruits who join the Marine Corps are between the ages of 17 and 21. The minimum age to enlist in the USMC is 17 (with parental consent) and the maximum age is typically 28, although waivers may be available for highly qualified applicants who are older. For Marine Corps officers, the age range can be slightly older because becoming an officer requires a bachelor's degree.

Becoming a Marine involves more than just meeting physical standards and completing training. There are several qualities that are expected of Marines, which are cultivated during their training and service. These qualities are closely tied to the core values of the Marine Corps: Honor, Courage and Commitment.

Discipline is foundational to the structure and effectiveness of each platoon. Marines are expected to show self-discipline in their actions, follow orders and adhere to a high standard of conduct.

Marines must maintain a high level of physical fitness. This contributes to their discipline and resilience.

Marines are asked to operate in difficult and changing circumstances. Being able to adapt quickly to new situations, overcome obstacles, and find solutions to problems is a key quality of a Marine. The platoon that I was with got dropped off in the middle of nowhere by helicopter and were alone in the snow for almost 3 weeks.

Marines must show both physical courage in the face of danger and moral courage to do what is right even when it's difficult. This includes standing up for their fellow Marines and upholding their commitment to the Marine Corps values. They must be able to inspire, guide, and support their fellow Marines.

Respect for superiors, peers and subordinates is essential in the Marine Corps. This includes respecting the rights, values, and beliefs of others, as well as treating all individuals with dignity.
Marines often operate as part of a team and depend on their fellow Marines for support and assistance.

Marines are expected to act with honesty and integrity, not only in their professional duties but also in their personal lives. This involves taking responsibility for their actions, fulfilling their obligations, and being accountable for their decisions.

Regarding cold weather training, the USMC has a specialized program known as the Mountain Warfare Training Center (MWTC). Training includes:
Marines learn how to build snow shelters, how to avoid cold weather injuries such as frostbite or hypothermia and how to survive with limited resources in harsh winter conditions.

Marines are taught to maneuver in deep snow and icy conditions. This includes training in skiing, snowshoeing and techniques for ascending and descending steep, snow-covered terrain.
Marines learn specific combat tactics for cold-weather. This includes learning how to use specialized equipment and weaponry in extreme cold & snow.

The physical demands of operating in cold environments are significant and Marines undergo intensive physical conditioning to prepare for these challenges.

The MWTC also has a unique Animal Packers Course, teaching Marines to use animals (mules in this case) to transport gear and supplies in terrain that vehicles may find difficult to navigate.

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David Hoffman filmmaker