Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego

Recruits of Company L, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, were graded on their knowledge of Marine Corps Martial Arts Program aboard Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego June 26.

MCMAP is taught throughout recruit training to instill confidence in recruits but it is also a graduation requirement and recruits must pass a graded examination in order to earn their tan belt.

The program, like civilian martial arts programs, has different belt levels ranging from-- tan, gray, green, brown and black. Each belt level of MCMAP, tan being the lowest, requires proficiency of different techniques and passing an examination to progress to the next belt.

Some recruits come with previous Mixed Martial Arts experience but learn new skills from the Marine Corps martial arts.

“MCMAP gives us skills to know how to protect ourselves and fellow Marines,” said Recruit Manuel A. Velazquez, Platoon 3254. “I have previous MMA experience and I didn’t know some moves, like the different types of chokes, but they are very effective.”

MCMAP combines several martial arts moves into one program. It is made up of various techniques such as joint manipulation, take-downs, strikes, bayonet techniques, rifle strikes and ground fighting.

During every martial arts class, drill instructors ensure recruits are also taught when and where the moves are authorized.

 “MCMAP is a set of warrior skills that encompasses the physical, discipline and moral character to distinguish right from wrong during war fighting,” said Sgt. Benjamin G. Laca, drill instructor. “Some recruits have never been in a fight, MCMAP gives them a boost in confidence that way it (fighting) won’t be something new to them.”

After every session, instructors lead a guided discussion where they tie in not only the physical aspect of the program for recruits but also, ethical and moral values.

“MCMAP is an introduction to physical, ethical, moral, courage and confidence in physical skill during hand-to-hand combat,” said Laca. “The purpose of tie-in discussions is to reinforce the Marine Corps core values of honor, courage and commitment-- to do what is right at all times.”

Along with warrior ethos and character, MCMAP requires a Marine to be physically fit in order to be proficient.

Throughout recruit training recruits develop leadership skills, ethical and moral values. MCMAP is one of many training events designed to improve recruits mentally and physically throughout their journey to becoming Marines.