Marines

The mission of the Series Commander Course (SCC) is to train, educate, and introduce newly assigned company grade officers with the basic knowledge and skills to successfully perform the duties as a series commander within the Recruit Training Regiment (RTR). The Assistant Director of Drill Instructor School serves as the primary instructor for the SCC and coordinates the development and accomplishment of the training schedule. The SCC is two weeks in length and consists of ten training days. The frequency of courses is determined by class size and the need of the RTR.

The SCC is an evolving course that is guided by the fluidity of recruit training and the subsequent guidance of the Commanding Officer, RTR. The course consists of introduction and orientation to Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, guided discussions, classes, close order drill, physical training, recruit training observation, practical applications, and briefs from agencies that support the mission of RTR. The preponderance of the course is spent covering the Standing Operations Procedures for Recruit Training (SOP) and lessons learned through experiences and case studies. The information and training covered in the course is vital to successfully performing the duties of a series commander. Graduation from the course is a requirement by Marine Corps Order 1510.32_.

Each SCC is time intensive and demanding. In addition to normal training hours, students will receive home work assignments in the form of reading, speech memorization, and uniform preparation. Due to the concentrated nature of each course, the following recommendations are given in order to assist preparations:

  • Have your personal affairs in order. It is imperative that all billeting, TMO, and personal issues are taken care of before or after the course.
  • Arrive prepared for rigorous PT; leadership by example is essential for your success.
  • Bring at least two sets of combat utilities (desert and woodland MARPAT) and all service and dress uniforms ensuring proper fit and appearance to include barracks and garrison covers; you are guaranteed to wear them.
  • Bring your sword and all its trappings (service belt, frog, sling, knot, etc.); ceremonial participation is a way of life aboard the Depot.
  • Bring an open mind and a positive attitude; recruit training is a dynamic and demanding process for all involved.

To graduate from the course the student must demonstrate mastery (80%) in the following areas: SOP certification consisting of a 70 question multiple choice exam, SCC certification consisting of a 25 question short answer exam, drill evaluation, speech evaluation, Camp Pendleton range safety officer certification, CPR certification and execution of the obstacle course, confidence course, combat fitness test, and physical fitness test.

Questions concerning the administration, content, and/or instruction of the SCC can contact the Assistant Director of Drill Instructor School at (DSN) 524-4414, or commercial (619) 524-4414.