Why the Marine Corps: Episode 3

12th Marine Corps District Photos

Marine follows in her mother’s footsteps

Left, Erika Hallford, right, Pvt. Larissa Hallford, are pictured in the Permanent Contact Station El Centro, Recruiting Sub-Station El Cajon, Recruiting Station San Diego. Larissa followed in her mother, Erika's, footsteps by joining the United States Marine Corps. Erika served from 1992-1996. (Courtesy Photo)

Best friends receive NROTC scholarship together

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Maria Arzata, canvassing recruiter with Recruiting Station San Diego, and Capt. Katie Sliwoski, executive officer of Recruiting Station San Diego, present Alec Howell and Michael Cava the Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps scholarship in San Diego, Calif. on May 29, 2020. Howell and Cava graduated from Torrey Pines High School, applied, and won the scholarship together.

San Diego native receives NROTC scholarship

Logan Lidster, his parents, and Staff Sgt. Jacob Louis pose for a photo at Mission Hills High School, March 9, 2020, after Louis presented Lidster with the Naval Officers Training Corps Scholarship. Lidster will attend Texas A&M University, prior to commissioning as a 2nd Lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps.

Marine Corps helps young woman find her voice

U.S. Marine Corps Pfc. Jacqueline Kliewer, a Marine musician, poses for a photo with her family at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, Jan. 2, 2020. Kliewer had many obstacles on her way to earning the title United States Marine, but now Kliewer has strength and confidence to overcome anything. (Courtesy Photo)

Future Marine loses 186 pounds to earn title United States Marine

Gabriel Mendez Ramirez, a future Marine with Recruiting Sub-Station Oceanside, Recruiting Station San Diego, lost 186 pounds on his way to become a United States Marine. Ramirez is a native from Oceanside, California and graduated from Rancho Buena Vista High School. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Bernadette Plouffe)

A Future Mustang

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Monique RomeroFlores, an officer selection assistant with Recruiting Station Orange County, talks about her decision to become a commissioned officer through the Marine Corps Enlisted Commissioning Education Program (MECEP) on May 19, 2020. The MECEP offers qualified enlisted Marines the opportunity to attend a four-year college full-time, while maintaining active duty status and pay and commission as a 2nd Lieutenant. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Sarah Ralph)

Unveiling Commitment through Telecommuting

U.S. Marine Corps Recruiting Sub-Station Westminster continues to stay dedicated to their enlistees in preparing them for bootcamp by telecommuting physical training on May 8, 2020. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Sarah Ralph)

Defining Worth through Music and the Marine Corps

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Kelsey Worth, a musician with Marine Band San Diego, plays the saxophone during a rehearsal at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Calif., March 12, 2020. The Musician Enlistment Option Program (MEOP) provides musicians the opportunity of becoming a Marine and playing for one of the Marine Corps bands across the nation. Worth was the first female recruited through MEOP in the 12th Marine Corps District. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Tessa D. Watts)

RS Riverside Educator Experiences Recruit Training at Parris Island

Ricardo Padilla, a trustee from the El Monte Union High School District, participates in a Marine Corps Martial Arts demonstration during Educators Workshop, aboard Marine Corps Recruit Depot (MCRD) Parris Island, S.C., February 27, 2020. The participants visited MCRD Parris Island for a four-day period to observe recruit training and gain a better understanding of how recruits are transformed into Marines. (U.S Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Autmn S. Laning)

12th Marine Corps District Captain Herren Athlete of the Year

U.S. Marine Capt. Kate J. Herren, with 12th Marine Corps District, is awarded Athlete of the Year from the All-Marine Rugby Team at the Commandant of the Marine Corps Combined Awards Ceremony at The Clubs at Quantico, Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va., Jan. 22, 2020. This ceremony originated in 1995 recognizing top recruiters, instructors, and the command with the highest combined physical and combat fitness performance. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Mikayla R. Perez)

U.S. Marine Provides Lifesaving Act at High School Career Fair

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Michael Delgado, a recruiter with Recruiting Substation Burbank, Recruiting Station Los Angeles, 12th Marine Corps District, stands outside his office in Burbank, California, Sept. 24, 2020. The week prior, Delgado performed first-aid to help save a woman’s life during a career fair at John Burroughs High School. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Emily Kirk)

Remembering to Breathe

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Thomas Zandate, a recruiter with Recruiting Substation Pomona, Recruiting Station Riverside, 12th Marine Corps District, stands outside his office in Pomona, Calif., Sept. 21, 2020. The day before, Zandate performed CPR to help save a man’s life outside in the parking lot of RSS Pomona. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Juan Madrigal)

We Make Marines Vintage Inspired Recruiting Poster

A drill instructor from Fox Company, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, corrects a recruit at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, July 7, 2017. The photo illustration is part of a series inspired by vintage Marine Corps recruiting posters. (U.S. Marine Corps photo illustration by Cpl. Tessa D. Watts)

Answering the Call

Poolees with U.S. Marine Corps Recruiting Substation Fresno, Recruiting Station Sacramento, pick up trash while volunteering at the Fresno Rescue Mission in Fresno, Calif., Jan. 11, 2020. Part of the Marine Corps mission is to return quality citizens to society and this was an opportunity to give back to the community.

Commanding General's Cup Award

U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Marco A. Corral, the comptroller chief at 12th Marine Corps District, speaks to District Marines and Sailors after an award ceremony at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Calif., Jan. 16, 2019. The Commanding General's Cup is a tournament consisting of various sports for tenant commands to compete in to boost morale and get Marines and Sailors to be active by playing sports. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Christian Cachola)

12MCD Marine Awarded George Van Cleave Military Leadership Award

U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Richard A. Hayek, the 12th Marine Corps District adjutant, poses for a photo at his desk in San Diego, Calif., Dec. 19, 2019. Hayek was nominated for he award for various actions that exemplified leadership on and off the battlefield. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Christian Cachola)

Keep it in the Family

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Jeffrey Cordero is sworn in by the Commanding Officer of 12th Marine Corps District, Colonel James B. Conway, during his reenlistment ceremony aboard Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Calif., on December 19, 2019. Nine years ago, then Corporal Jeffrey Cordero was sworn into the Marine Corps by Colonel Conway’s father, and 34th Commandant of the Marine Corps, General James T. Conway, during his reenlistment ceremony at the 9th Marine Corps District Headquarters in Kansas City, Mo., on Aug. 29, 2010. Staff Sgt. Jeffrey Cordero is the Communications Strategy and Operations Chief at 12th Marine Corps District, and is from New York City, N.Y. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Autmn Laning)

Principal for a Day

Michael Capps, Oak Hills High School Principal, walks alongside Sgt. Mark Reinsberg, a Marine recruiter with Recruiting Station Riverside during the Principal for a Day event held at Oak Hills High School in Oak Hills, CA, Nov. 21, 2019. Principal for a Day is a program run by Hesperia Unified School District designed to show local leaders and community members the state of the schools in the area and discuss what can be improved. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Juan Madrigal)

Top Marines Recognized

U.S. Marines assigned to 12th Marine Corps District, Western Recruiting Region, pose for a photo after a recognition ceremony at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Calif., June 28, 2019. The ceremony was held to recognize Marines who made an impact in their respective recruiting districts. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Christian Cachola)

12th District Marines take Mount Soledad

U.S. Marines assigned to 12th Marine Corps District, Western Recruiting Region, pose for a photo at Mount Soledad after a physical training event in San Diego, Calif., May 17, 2019.

Force 12 Commanders the Summit

The Recruiting Station commanders of "Force 12" run to the summit of Iron Mountain in Poway, Calif., during a District Commander's Operations & Training Symposium held April 12, 2019.

OSO Berkeley, Sacramento, San Jose Host Mini OCS

U.S. Marine Corps Officer candidates with Officer Selection Office San Jose crawl through mud during a Mini Officer Candidate School at U.S. Army Reserve Camp Parks in Dublin, Calif., March 23, 2019. Mini OCS is designed to give candidates and applicants an idea of what to expect at Marine Corps Officer Candidate School. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Christian Cachola)

OSO Berkeley, Sacramento, San Jose Host Mini OCS

U.S. Marine Corps Officer candidates with Officer Selection Office Berkeley check their gear during a Mini Officer Candidate School at U.S. Army Reserve Camp Parks in Dublin, Calif., March 23, 2019. Mini OCS is designed to give candidates and applicants an idea of what to expect at Marine Corps Officer Candidate School. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Christian Cachola)

Battle Color Detachment Performs at MCRD

The U.S. Marine Corps Drum & Bugle Corps assembles on the Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego Parade Deck during the Battle Color Ceremony March 16. The Battle Color Detachment consists of the Drum & Bugle Corps, the Silent Drill Platoon, and the Marine Corps Color Guard who travel and perform throughout the nation, celebrating Marine Corps history. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Christian Cachola)

Commanders of "Force 12" Morning Motto Run

"The Recruiting Station Commanders of "Force 12" run the beach trails of Torrey Pines, California, as part of the District Commander's Operations & Training Symposium held 13 Feb 2019."

RS Orange County CO Assists Local NJROTC

U.S. Marine Corps Major Adam Taylor, commanding officer of Marine Corps Recruiting Station Orange County, inspects cadets from the Navy Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps during the Area 11 Field Meet Championship at Santa Ana High School, Santa Ana, Calif., Feb. 2, 2019. Units from across southern California participated in multiple events and were judged on military bearing, knowledge and precision during team events. This is one of the many ways local recruiting commands support their communities and help develop America's youth.

Battle on the Midway: Dual of Valor

Fresno State University Wrestling Head Coach Troy Steiner (left) and Stanford University Wrestling Head Coach Jason Borrelli (right) exchange challenge coins at the beginning of the Battle on the Midway aboard the USS Midway, San Diego, Calif., Nov. 20, 2018. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Christian Cachola)

Marine Recognized for Saving a Life

Staff Sgt. Jennie Castillo stands out side of the Kenneth Hahn Hall of Administration after being awarded the County of Los Angeles Commendation in CA, Oct. 16, 2018. Castillo was awarded the County of Los Angeles Commendation by the Board of Supervisors for applying first aid to a high school student, saving his life.

Marine Recognized for Saving a Life

Staff Sgt. Jennie Castillo poses for a photo with members of the Board of Supervisors from the County of Los Angeles and members of the Los Angeles Police Department at the Kenneth Hahn Hall of Administration, CA, Oct. 16, 2018. Castillo is a native of Santa Ana, CA. Castillo was awarded the County of Los Angeles Commendation by the Board of Supervisors for applying first aid to a high school student, saving his life.

U.S. Marines Recognized at SDSU College Football Game

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Terry M. Johnson, center, Commanding Officer, 12th Marine Corps District, tosses the coin during the San Diego State University vs. Arizona State University college football game at San Diego County Credit Union Stadium, San Diego, Sept. 15, 2018. Marines were recognized throughout the duration of the game for their patriotic service.

U.S. Marines Recognized at SDSU College Football Game

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Mattxyrill Vidal, Administration Clerk, 12th Marine Corps District, waves at the audience during the San Diego State University vs. Arizona State University college football game at San Diego County Credit Union Stadium, San Diego, Sept. 15, 2018. Marines were recognized throughout the duration of the game for their patriotic service.

Force 12 Commanders Hike Potato Chip Rock

FORCE 12 Commanders seize the summit of Mt. Woodson during a recent Professional Military Education (PME) event in Poway, Calif., July 27, 2018.

RS San Francisco Change of Command

Maj. Jonathan Frerichs relinquishes command of Recruiting Station San Francisco to Maj. Clinton Hall, during a change of command ceremony, June 18, 2018. Hall served as operations officer for 2nd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment prior to assuming command of RS San Francisco. (U.S. Marine Corps imagery by Sgt. Nichole Stoehrer/Released)

RS Portland Change of Command

U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Brooks W. Boehlert (right) relinquishes command of Marine Corps Recruiting Station Portland to Maj. Mark M. Goebel during a change of command ceremony aboard Fort Vancouver, Wa., June 15, 2018. The change of command ceremony represents the changing of authority between outgoing Maj. Boehlert and the incoming Maj. Goebel. (U.S. Marine Corps imagery by Sgt. Travis Gershaneck/Released)

Sgt. Raymund Bunker, U.S. Marines the All-Marine Wrestling Team, demonstrates different techniques during an after school workout at the Los Alamitos High School with students from the surrounding area of Los Alamitos, Ca. May 15, 2018. The All-Marine Wrestling team held demonstrations and technique clinics in the southern California area to exhibit the Marine Corps values of Honor, Courage and Commitment to young students and aspiring wrestlers. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Taylor Schrick)

All-Marine Wrestling Team Demonstrations

Sgt. Raymund Bunker, U.S. Marines All-Marine Wrestling Team, demonstrates different techniques during an after school workout at the Los Alamitos High School with students from the surrounding area of Los Alamitos, Ca. May 15, 2018. The All-Marine Wrestling team held demonstrations and technique clinics in the southern California area to exhibit the Marine Corps values of Honor, Courage and Commitment to young students and aspiring wrestlers. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Taylor Schrick)

The U.S. Marines the All-Marine Wrestling Team, demonstrates different techniques to students during a lunch-time demonstration at the Palos Verdes Peninsula High School, Ca. May 16, 2018. The All-Marine Wrestling team held demonstrations and technique clinics in the southern California area to exhibit the Marine Corps values of Honor, Courage and Commitment to young students and aspiring wrestlers. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Taylor Schrick)

All-Marine Wrestling Team Demonstrations

The U.S. Marines All-Marine Wrestling Team, demonstrates different techniques to students during a lunch-time demonstration at the Palos Verdes Peninsula High School, Ca. May 16, 2018. The All-Marine Wrestling team held demonstrations and technique clinics in the southern California area to exhibit the Marine Corps values of Honor, Courage and Commitment to young students and aspiring wrestlers. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Taylor Schrick)

Echo Company Honor Man

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Jason Enriquez, center, with Company E, 2d Recruit Training Battalion (2D RTBN), Recruit Training Regiment (RTR), poses for a photo with his recruiter Staff Sgt. Elias Guzman, Recruiting Sub-Station Fairfield, Recruiting Station San Francisco, CA, 12th Marine Corps District, and his senior drill instructor Sgt. Cameron M. Ditch, with Company E, 2D RTBN, RTR, after a graduation ceremony at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Calif., May. 11, 2018. Enriquez received the Chesty Puller award and was named company honor graduate from Company E, 2D RTBN. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Alexander L. Gist)

Pacific Northwest Navy and Marine Corps Enlistees Affirm their Dedication to Country Aboard Future USS Portland

Oregon Navy and Marine Corps enlistees stand in formation before their Oath of Enlistment aboard the future USS Portland (LPD 27) in Portland, Oregon, April 19, 2018. Portland is the U.S. Navy’s 11th San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship. It is the third ship to bear the name USS Portland; however, it is the first ship to be named solely for Oregon’s largest city. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Steven Tran)

Pacific Northwest Navy and Marine Corps Enlistees Affirm their Dedication to Country Aboard Future USS Portland

Maj. Brooks W. Boehlert addresses guests before Oregon Navy and Marine Corps enlistees recite the Oath of Enlistment aboard the future USS Portland (LPD 27) in Portland, Oregon, April 19, 2018. Portland is the U.S. Navy’s 11th San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship. It is the third ship to bear the name USS Portland; however, it is the first ship to be named solely for Oregon’s largest city. Boehlert, from Siletz, Oregon, is the commanding officer of Recruiting Station Portland, Oregon. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Steven Tran)

Women in Aviation

Marines with the 12th Marine Corps District supported the Women in Aviation International Symposium in Reno, Nev., March 22 – 24, 2018, by educating the public on air capabilities and opportunities within the Marine Corps. The event brought together aviators from around the world and celebrated the 100th anniversary of women serving in the Marine Corps. (Courtesy photo by Capt. Maureen Krebs.)

Women in Aviation

Leadership Reaction Course

Female poolees of Marine Corps Recruiting Station Orange County maneuver through the Leadership Reaction Course during an annual function at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Mar. 10, 2018. This function brought together young women from across southern California to experience aspects of recruit training in order to provide insight and understanding as to what they'll endure at the depot for 13 weeks. Roughly nine percent of women serve in the United States Marine Corps, the smallest percentage of females in any branch of service. This makes it very important to bring these young women together and learn about specific aspects of life as a Marine, such as hair, hygiene, physical fitness and culture.

Annual Pool Function

Maj. Adam Taylor, commanding officer of Marine Corps Recruiting Station Orange County, and Sgt. Maj. Jason Politte, the station sergeant major, lead their female poolees to Edison Range during an annual function at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Mar. 10, 2018. This function brought together young women from across southern California to experience aspects of recruit training in order to provide insight and understanding as to what they'll endure at the depot for 13 weeks. Roughly nine percent of women serve in the United States Marine Corps, the smallest percentage of females in any branch of service. This makes it very important to bring these young women together and learn about specific aspects of life as a Marine, such as hair, hygiene, physical fitness and culture.

Iditarod Musher’s Banquet

Maj. Brooks Boehlert, Commanding Officer, Recruiting Station Portland, presents two students with NROTC scholarship checks at the Iditarod Sled Dog Race Musher’s Banquet in Anchorage, Alaska. The Marine Corps partnered with the Iditarod for the first time, this year, to build a long-lasting connection and to demonstrate shared values such as honor, courage and commitment. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Capt. Maureen Krebs/Released)

MGySgt Aguilar Retirement Ceremony

Master Gunnery Sgt. Luis M. Aguilar, renders a salute during the National Anthem at his retirement ceremony aboard Marine Corps Recruit Depot, San Diego, Feb. 23, 2018. The retirement ceremony was held to honor Aguilar for his 28 years of honorable and faithful service to the United States Marine Corps. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Taylor Schrick)

District Spouse Orientation Course

The 12th Marine Corps District conducted District Spouse Orientation Course 1-18 (DSOC) aboard Marine Corps Recruit Depot (MCRD) San Diego, Calif., Feb. 15, 2018. The DSOC provides Marines and their spouses a broad spectrum of tools to help them transition into the Marine Corps' recruiting field. The spouses came from across the district to build connections and network with fellow spouses. (U.S. Marine Corps Imagery by Cpl. Jesus McCloud)

Ms. Gloria Pettis Retires After 36 Years

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Terry M. Johnson, Commanding Officer, 12th Marine Corps District, Marine Corps Recruit Depot, San Diego, presents Ms. Gloria Pettis with a Commendation for Meritorious Civilian Service Medal for her 36 years of faithful and dedicated federal service, Dec. 21, 2017. Ms. Pettis served as the Financial Management Analyst for the 12th Marine Corps District for almost 25 years.

Company F Honor Graduate

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Tyler L. Archambeault, right, with Company F, 2d Recruit Training Battalion (2D RTBN), Recruit Training Regiment (RTR), poses for a photo with his senior drill instructor Staff Sgt Ryan. S. Jackson with Company F, 2D RTBN, RTR, after a graduation ceremony at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Calif., Dec. 15, 2017. Archambeault received the Chesty Puller award and was named company honor graduate from Company F, 2D RTBN. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Alexander L. Gist)

MCRC's Annual National OSO Training Seminar

U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. William M. Jurney, Commanding General of Marine Corps Recruit Depot (MCRD) San Diego, presents Gunnery Sgt. Shannon Umana, Assistant for Officer Procurement Operations Chief, 12th Marine Corps District, with a Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal during the Marine Corps Recruiting Command’s Annual National Officer Selection Officers training seminar aboard MCRD San Diego, Calif., Dec. 12, 2017. The OSOs were recognized for superior achievement in locating, contracting and shipping qualified officer candidates throughout Fiscal Year 2017.

12MCD Supports National Society of Black Engineers Symposium

U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Jessica Shearer, Communication Officer, 4th Medical Battalion, 4th Marine Logistics Group, interviews students at the National Society of Black Engineers Symposium in Garden Grove, Calif., November 18, 2017. During the symposium Marines interact with collegiate-level students from across the country whom have shown outstanding qualities in education and leadership. By investing in a diverse and representative officer corps, it will help generate and sustain a future force that has the cultural expertise, language skills, and a variety of philosophies needed to meet the operational requirements of the Marine Corps. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Jesus McCloud/Released)

Australian Army members visit 12MCD

12th Marine Corps District's senior leadership hosted members of the Australian Army Recruiting Headquarters at a question and answer session about the Marine Corps' recruiting procedures aboard Marine Corps Recruit Depot, San Diego, Calif, Nov. 7, 2017. 12th MCD shares with our counterparts how to “locate, close-with and contract, enlist, access, and ship the highest quality of men and women our country has to offer.” (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Jesus McCloud)

Marine Corps Jazz Orchestra Tour

GySgt. Jason Knuckles, Small Ensemble Leader, Parris Island Marine Band, performs a solo during a concert with the Marine Corps Jazz Orchestra at University of Redlands, Oct 13, 2017. The orchestra features top Marine musicians from throughout the Corps. They tour annually to share their music, culture, and patriotism with public audiences. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Taylor Morton/Released)

Marine Corps Jazz Orchestra Tour

Sgt. Michael Borowski, a muscian with Marine Band San Digeo, performs along side the Marine Corps Jazz Orchestra at a concert at California Baptist University, Oct 13, 2017. The orchestra features top Marine musicians from throughout the Corps. They tour annually to share their music, culture, and patriotism with public audiences. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Taylor Morton/Released)

2017 Honor Bowl

Staff Sgt. Alfredo Torres, an infantryman with 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines, places a ka-bar and rifle, in honor of the fallen Marines from 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, during the opening ceremony of the Honor Bowl Championship Game at Cathedral Catholic High School, San Diego, Sept. 2, 2017. The Honor Bowl is an elite football tournament which highlights some of the most talented high school teams across the country, and honors service members both killed and wounded in action. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Sgt. Taylor Morton/Released)

2017 Honor Bowl

U.S. Marines with Recruiting Station San Diego, Color Guard present the colors during the opening ceremony of the Honor Bowl Championship Game at Cathedral Catholic High School, San Diego, Sept. 2, 2017. The Honor Bowl is an elite football tournament which highlights some of the most talented high school teams across the country, and honors service members both killed and wounded in action. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Sgt. Taylor Morton/Released)

Orange County Marines Take Charge

From left to right, Marine Corps Sgt. Herbert Cosio, Sgt. Austin Elder, Sgt. Michael Thomas and Sgt. Martin Minner retire the colors during a Los Angeles Chargers and New Orleans Saints pre-season game at the Stub Hub Center in Carson, Calif., Aug. 20, 2017. Marines of Marine Corps Recruiting Station Orange County presented a Color Guard for their local football team to support the players and more importantly the community. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Jessica Quezada)

Orange County Marines Take Charge

U.S. Marines of Marine Corps Recruiting Station Orange County present the colors during the National Anthem presentation at the Stub Hub Center in Carson, Calif., Aug. 20, 2017. The Color Guard supported the Los Angeles Chargers vs. the New Orleans Saints pre-season game to show support for their local football team and more importantly the community. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Jessica Quezada)

Force 12 Commanders Seize the Summit

Force 12 Commanders seize the summit of Mt Woodson (a.k.a. Potato Chip Rock), during recent PT/PME event at District HQ, July 26, 2017.

And Time! Educator Endures Combat Fitness Test

Marine Corps Sgt. Kelvin Gonzalez calls out Vitali Andreev's time during a combat fitness test at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, June 13, 2017. Andreev is a teacher for Rosary Academy in Fullerton, Calif., and attended this year's Educators Workshop to get a once in a lifetime, candid look into the U.S. Marine Corps. This all-expense paid workshop immerses teachers, coaches, counselors, principals and band directors into the unknowns of the organization so they may broaden their perspective and pass their experience and knowledge onto their students.

Padres Pre-Game Ceremony

Future Marines from Recruiting Station San Diego take the oath of enlistment and receive NROTC scholarship checks at a pre-game ceremony hosted at Petco Park, San Diego, June 11, 2017. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Sgt. Taylor Morton/Released)

Commanding Officer, Maj. Brooks Boehlert and Sergeant Major, Sgt. Maj. Mark Wright lead the motivational run at the RS Portland Annual Pool Function. Poolees within RS Portland gathered at Camp Rilea, Warrenton, Oregon, for an annual 3-day field meet. Poolees were given an opportunity to experience aspects of recruit training to include drill instructors, and physical training. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Sgt. Taylor Morton/Released)

RS Portland Annual Pool Function

RS Portland's Commanding Officer and Sergeant Major, Maj. Brooks Boehlert and Sgt. Maj. Mark Wright, lead the motivational run at the RS Portland Annual Pool Function. Poolees within RS Portland gathered at Camp Rilea, Warrenton, Oregon, for an annual 3-day field meet. Poolees were given an opportunity to experience aspects of recruit training to include an introduction to drill instructors and physical training. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Sgt. Taylor Morton/Released)

RS Portland Annual Pool Function

Drill Instructor Sgt. Kelvin Gonzalez, Support Battalion, MCRD San Diego, encourages a Poolee at the RS Portland Annual Pool Function. Poolees within RS Portland gathered at Camp Rilea, Warrenton, Oregon, for an annual 3-day field meet. Poolees were given an opportunity to experience aspects of recruit training to include an introduction to drill instructors and physical training. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Sgt. Taylor Morton/Released)

Orange County Marines recognize Eagle Scouts

The U.S. Marine Corps Color Guard of Recruiting Station Orange County presents colors during the Eagle Scout Recognition Dinner in Garden Grove, Calif., April 26, 2017. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Jessica Quezada)

Officer Candidates prepare for OCS

Officer Candidates of Recruiting Station Orange County, Recruiting Station Los Angeles, Recruiting Station San Diego and Recruiting Station Riverside, maneuver through the leadership reaction course during the Officer Candidate School preparation weekend at Camp Pendleton, Calif., April 22, 2017. In order to prepare applicants for the rigors of OCS, this weekend-long training evolution assists in conditioning and familiarization with the types of endeavors candidates will face at the school.(U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Jessica Quezada)

Anti-Bullying Tour: Marines, Athletes Combat Bullying

A student from Olympian High School, Chula Vista, California, executes as many pull-ups as he can to earn prizes from the pull-up challenge during the anti-bullying ASA tour, April 4, 2017. Marine Corps Recruiters from San Diego, ASA Entertainment staff and professional BMX riders traveled to multiple schools, April 3-7, 2017, to spread anti-bullying awareness and teach students how to prevent and react to different types of bullying. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. William Hester/ Released)

Marine Recruiters Present Colors at Varsity Game

Marine Corps Recruiters of Substation Lakewood present colors during a varsity baseball game at St. John Bosco High School, Bellflower, Calif., March 14, 2017.

12th Marine Corps District Videos

Why the Marine Corps: Episode 3

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Leslee Sigala, a motor transport operator and recruiter with Recruiting Station Orange County, speaks about the Marine Corps provided her with a stable career, financial stablility and why she continues to serve in the United States Marine Corps at recruiting sub-station Santa Ana, California, June 8, 2020

Up Next

12th Marine Corps District Leaders

Commanding Officer, 12th Marine Corps District
Colonel James B. Conway
VIEW BIO

Sergeant Major, 12th Marine Corps District
Sergeant Major Carlos M. Murcia
VIEW BIO

UNIT NEWS

Twins Ambition By Sgt. Sarah Ralph | June 26, 2020 Many believe that teenagers will change their minds several times before narrowing down what they might potentially want to do for a living. For Izhar and Nimsi RodaCopto, they knew at a young age that no matter what they decided to do, they wanted to make a difference. MORE

Marine follows in her mother’s footsteps By Sgt. Bernadette Plouffe | June 19, 2020 According to science, mother-daughter relationships are typically one of the strongest bonds out there. For the Hallfords, their bond is unbreakable. MORE

Best friends receive NROTC scholarship together By Sgt. Bernadette Plouffe | June 11, 2020 “I learned about the Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps scholarship from my father,” said Cava. “Then throughout wrestling with Alec, I found out he wanted to be a Marine as well, so we decided to start training together.” MORE

San Diego native receives NROTC scholarship By Sgt. Bernadette Plouffe | June 10, 2020 “Logan Lidster is the epitome of what we are looking for in a scholarship recipient, which is why he beat out all other applicants on the West Coast,” said Capt. Katie Sliwoski, executive officer of Recruiting Station San Diego. MORE

Marine Corps helps young woman find her voice By Sgt. Bernadette Plouffe | May 28, 2020 “The Marine Corps has helped me to speak out about the sexual assault that happened to me when I was younger,” said Kliewer. “If my drill instructors had not instilled the courage and strength they did in boot camp, I wouldn’t have found my strength and I wouldn’t have spoken up.” MORE

Future Marine loses 186 pounds to earn title United States Marine By Sgt. Bernadette Plouffe | May 22, 2020 He stood tall, looking over the top of everyone in the crowded restaurant. He could be spotted from a mile away, not because of his height, but because of the uniform he wore. His pride and confidence made him seem that much taller than everyone around him. His blood stripe lined the side of his pant leg and his shoes were so perfectly shined, Gabriel Mendez Ramirez could see his reflection staring back at him. Ramirez’s eyes lit up observing this seemingly perfect person. He knew nothing about the uniform he wore or who he was, so he marched up to him and asked. He was a United States Marine and from that day forward, Ramirez was determined that he would one day become a part of the Corps and earn his Eagle, Globe and Anchor. MORE

A Future Mustang By Sgt. Sarah Ralph | May 21, 2020 Leadership is one of the many fundamentals that is instilled into a Marine during all stages of their career. There are some Marines who take on this role with pride and enjoy the aspect of helping and assisting others in the right direction. The Marine Corps has two sides to their leadership spectrum. There is the enlisted side of leadership where Marines can promote from Private all the way up to Sergeant Major or Master Gunnery Sergeant. The opposite side of the spectrum is the officer route, which goes from Second Lieutenant all the way up to a General. Both of these have very important roles as far as guiding and leading Marines, but they are vastly different when it comes to decision making. The Marine Corps offers two types of programs for enlisted Marines if they desire to become an officer without breaking their active duty time; Marine Corps Enlisted Commissioning Education Program (MECEP) or Enlisted Commissioning Program (ECP). MORE

Unveiling Commitment through Telecommuting By Sgt. Sarah Ralph | May 12, 2020 A Marine is forged in the Corps' values of honor, courage and commitment. The commitment Marines have to mission accomplishment is persistent, unrelenting, and guaranteed. Marines unwavering devotion to mission accomplishment help them find creative and innovative answers to unique problems in uncertain and trying conditions. Marine Corps Recruiting Sub-Station (RSS) Westminster in Orange County, California has implemented new techniques to ensure they keep that commitment to their pool of future Marines during a time when the nation faces the Novel Coronavirus. MORE

Defining Worth through Music and the Marine Corps By Cpl. Tessa Watts | March 31, 2020 The musicians of the Marine Corps demonstrate the core values of honor, courage and commitment through the balance of musical excellence and upholding the elite stature Marines are known for. U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Kelsey Worth, a musician with Marine Band San Diego, has proven herself an integral piece to the Marine Corps’ total force by exemplifying these values through her dedication as a saxophonist and as a Marine. MORE

Remembering to Breathe By Sgt. Juan Madrigal | February 25, 2020 RIVERSIDE, Calif. – Being thrown into an emergency can be frightening and confusing, especially when a person’s life is at risk. That is something U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Thomas Zandate, a recruiter out of Recruiting Substation Pomona, Recruiting Station Riverside, 12th Marine Corps District, can tell you firsthand when he noticed a man in need of medical attention. On February 20, 2020, Zandate’s heroic actions saved a man’s life in a parking lot off of Rio Rancho Rd. in Pomona, Calif. MORE

Answering the Call By Sgt. Jocelyn Ontiveros | January 28, 2020 FRESNO, Calif – Becoming a United States Marine is a process requiring devotion to bettering yourself and the community. For many, the enlistment process involves entering the Delayed Entry Program where one can spend up to a year waiting for their “ship date” to recruit training. Recruiters use this time to prepare them both physically and mentally for the rigors of recruit training. For the Marines of Recruiting Substation (RSS) Fresno, Calif., becoming a Marine includes service to your community. Because of this the Marines and their members of the Delayed Entry Program spent their Saturday morning volunteering at a local homeless shelter on January 11, 2020. MORE

12 MCD Marine awarded George Van Cleave Military Leadership Award By Sgt. Christian Cachola | December 20, 2019 Marines are no strangers to setting the example on and off the battlefield. One of these individuals is Capt. Richard A. Hayek, an Arlington, Texas native. Throughout his Marine Corps career he has used the lessons he learned to become an exemplary Marine and an inspirational leader. In recognition of his reputation and notable accomplishments, the USO awarded Hayek with the George Van Cleave Military Leadership Award on Dec. 4, 2019, during the 58th USO Armed Forces Gala and Gold Medal Dinner in New York, New York. But Hayek believes he didn’t earn that award from his merits alone. MORE

Principal for a Day By Sgt. Juan Madrigal | November 19, 2019 OAK HILLS, Calif - Community is an integral part of the United States Marine Corps. For Sgt. Mark Reinsberg, a recruiter in Victorville, Calif., giving back to his community in any way is always an opportunity worth taking advantage of. Reinsberg participated in the Principal for a Day event at Hesperia Unified School District on Nov. 19, 2019. The event allows members of the community a chance to get a behind-the-scenes look at the schools in the school district. MORE

Battles Won: Marines Make Annual Recruiting Mission By Marine Corps Recruiting Command | October 1, 2019 QUANTICO, Virginia – The Marine Corps Recruiting Command achieved its assigned recruiting mission by both component and category for Fiscal Year 2019. MORE

RS Los Angeles excels to win the War Hammer Award By Sgt. Emily Kirk | June 28, 2019 LOS ANGELES - Marine Corps Recruiting Station Los Angeles out performed all 12th Marine Corps District recruiting stations during Operation War Hammer, earning them the War Hammer Award and a Certificate of Commendation. The spring recruiting offensive helped foster competition among the recruiting force to generate momentum during a historically challenging time for recruiting. MORE

MISSION STATEMENT

The 12th Marine Corps District, informally referred to as “Force 12”, is comprised of eight regional Recruiting Stations and one Prior-Service Recruiting Station, located across the western U.S., to include Alaska and the Pacific Islands. The Mission of Force 12 is to locate, close-with, and contract/enlist/access/ship the highest quality men and women our Country has to offer, into the United States Marine Corps. While this is our unifying purpose, the Marines, Sailors, and Civilian-Marines of Force 12 see their larger purpose as securing the future of the Marine Corps and changing lives!

CMC SMMC Message | COVID-19

In the face of COVID-19, Commandant of the Marine Corps General David H. Berger and Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps Troy E. Black deliver a message for future Marines, recruits, officer candidates, Marines and their families.

NOTIFICATIONS

At this time, Military Entrance Processing Stations are still open. We are accepting and processing applicants, but have restricted our travel around the local area, following the guidance set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Department of Defense. Please contact your recruiter if you or your family have questions regarding the current state of the enlistment process.

Rest assured, we are exercising an abundance of caution to ensure Marines, applicants, poolees and their families are protected and screened to prevent the spread of illness.

For the most up-to-date guidance on MCRD Graduations, please visit the Depots' websites at https://www.mcrdsd.marines.mil/ and https://www.mcrdpi.marines.mil/.