Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego Challenge Coin

The mission of the Recruit Depot and the Western Recruiting Region is to exercise operational control of enlisted recruiting operations in the 8th, 9th, and 12th Marine Corps Districts; to provide reception, processing, and recruit training for enlisted personnel following initial entry into the United States Marine Corps; and to produce a basically trained United States Marine embodied with the fighting spirit, core values and esprit de corps which have ensured our Corps’ success for over 240 years.

Recruit training for those enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, includes a thirteen-week process during which the recruit becomes cut off from the civilian world and must adapt to a Marine Corps lifestyle. During training, drill instructors train recruits in a wide variety of subjects including weapons training, Marine Corps Martial Arts Program, personal hygiene and cleanliness, close order drill, and Marine Corps history. The training emphasizes physical fitness, and recruits must attain a minimum standard of fitness to graduate by passing a Physical Fitness Test. Recruits must also meet minimum combat-oriented swimming qualifications, qualify in rifle marksmanship with the M16A4 service rifle, and pass a 54-hour simulated combat exercise known as “The Crucible”.

The depot is also home to: Drill Instructor School which teaches sergeants, staff sergeants and gunnery sergeants what it takes to make Marines; and Recruiters School which teaches noncommissioned officers and staff NCO’s how to find America’s best and brightest and bring them into our ranks.

This medallion salutes the service of all U.S. Marines ‘ past and present ‘ who have contributed to the proud legacy of America’s most celebrated fighting force.

Minted in antique bronze, this coin’s reverse displays the Marine logo set in a semitransparent radiant red enamel appropriate for warriors who bring battle to those who would imperil liberty.

Each coin measures 1 3/4 inch (44mm) Round.