Almost there.
Saturday was our recruiting station's monthly IST.
The days leading up to it I was feeling a little behind in my PT. For the entire week of Thanksgiving I'd been out of town to visit family, meaning a lack of strenuous PT for about seven days.
So by the time the following Monday came around I was starting to feel worried.
Went to PT for the three days, then rested on Thursday and Friday.
Friday I took the opportunity to spend time with my mom and a couple of friends. In the evening we headed into downtown and watched the local Christmas Parade.
Saturday brought the IST. But unlike our normal monthly IST this one was a Command IST. Meaning that a few of the Command Staff members would be there to oversee the IST and interview each employee.
That day we had a Captain and a Sergeant Major.
In the end I did pass my IST, but I was a little disappointed in myself.
Instead of showing progress, there was a lack of.
FAH: 29secs
Crunches: 81
Run: 14mins 24secs
Now I just have one more IST to pass and I'll be sent to Parris Island on Monday.
Sunday, December 5, 2010
Sunday, November 14, 2010
30 day pre-ship IST
November 10th- Talk with Gunnery Sergeant
Wednesday was my rest day. No PT since I had an IST on Thursday. But I awoke to a text message saying that all Poolees had to come in to the office at some point during the day to talk to the Gunnery Sergeant. Slightly disappointed at not being a couch bum all day I eventually arranged to show up about 11am.
(On the way, I had a slight scare as I realized I was on E and my gas light was going off. Luckily I made it to a gas station before running out of gas.)
At the office I found my recruiter and one of the others chilling at their respective desks. When I approached my recruiter's desk I noticed the GySgt's office door was closed and figured he was already talking to some Poolees.
I sat down across from my recruiter and his first question was about boot camp. Something about if I knew what to expect at Recruit Training. From there we had a small discussion about the same basics: 80% mental, 20% physical.
After going over the purpose of boot camp with me, he then revealed that one of the recent poolees had failed at Recruit Training.
It turned out to be a female that I had befriended while she was in DEP. She had been enthusiastic about boot camp, to the point of working hard to get her date moved up. She'd left near the end of October.
But I didn't understand how she could fail. I'd felt she could handle it.
'So she gave up?', I ask my recruiter, trying to prod for details.
Pretty much. Now shes failed and is coming home.
As I wait for my turn to talk to the GySgt, the other recruiter has now gotten off the phone and takes the oppurtunity to talk to me about Recruit Training. He tells of his own experiences and reiterates the idea that the Drill Instructors are there to help you although it may not appear that way.
He even mentions how at one point he came to a breaking point. He woke up one morning and decided he was going to do any of the training.
As the Drill Instructors ordered the other recruits around he remained standing where he was.
Finally the Drill Instructors ordered everyone out. One of the DI's then returned and came up to him.
'So this is it? you're just going to pussy out? And let down your family and friends and go home a failure?'
The recruiter said at that point the DI had him. He couldn't quit. And he finished Recruit Training, earned the title of Marine and is now a Sergeant.
A few minutes later the GySgt finally calls me in along with another poolee. He tells us why he has called us there: to make sure we understand what we're getting into. To make sure we understand what Recruit Training is. He mentions that he is greatly dissapointed in the two failures at Recruit Training that have occured in the past two weeks. Apparently they couldn't take it, and so forth.
Eventually he dismisses the other Poolee.
He then elaborates on my friend's situation. It seemed that one day she'd gone to medical and told them she wanted to kill herself.
After hearing this, it slowly sinks in. I still can't believe shes not going to make it. I was so sure she'd graduate. She'd seemed strong.
And then I start thinking, if she can't make it, whats to say I will? I can't help but to start comparing myself to her failure.
But at the same time the GySgt goes on to tell me not to compare myself to her. I am not her. And just because she failed, does not mean I will too.
He notes the effort I've put in these last few months to get where I am now. I've worked too hard to get this far and fail. He doesn't expect that from me.
And he wants to see me graduate.
He then mentions, that if he has to, he will write me everyday to help me get through Recruit Training. He'd even make the other recruiters write to me, if that would help.
I smile at the gesture. At least I know they support me.
November 11th- Veteran's Day
Up at 4am, at the office by 530am.
Sergeant B drives myself and 3 other poolees to Orlando to take our IST.
After the talk with GySgt, I'd spent the rest of the day contemplating my morale. I finally resolved that I could make it. I told myself 'This is going to suck, but this is what I want'.
Now at the IST I pictured all of the people rooting for my success:
My recruiters, all of the members of my Explorer's Post, Friends from church, Friends from school, and my fellow poolees. Standing with them would be my family. My parents and distant relatives. And the few members that had recently been lost to death, my grandma, uncle, and a great aunt. And just as proud, would be my grandpa who passed away while I was a kid. He was a Marine, and I wished to make him proud.
And they were all there, 'standing in my balcony', cheering me on as I held the bar for the Flex Arm Hang, knocked out crunches in 2mins, and ran my heart out on the 1.5 mile.
At the end of the day I had
I passed my IST!
When I got back to the office I smiled as the recruiter's told me 'good job'.
Now I have a month before I leave for Recruit Training, Parris Island.
Wednesday was my rest day. No PT since I had an IST on Thursday. But I awoke to a text message saying that all Poolees had to come in to the office at some point during the day to talk to the Gunnery Sergeant. Slightly disappointed at not being a couch bum all day I eventually arranged to show up about 11am.
(On the way, I had a slight scare as I realized I was on E and my gas light was going off. Luckily I made it to a gas station before running out of gas.)
At the office I found my recruiter and one of the others chilling at their respective desks. When I approached my recruiter's desk I noticed the GySgt's office door was closed and figured he was already talking to some Poolees.
I sat down across from my recruiter and his first question was about boot camp. Something about if I knew what to expect at Recruit Training. From there we had a small discussion about the same basics: 80% mental, 20% physical.
After going over the purpose of boot camp with me, he then revealed that one of the recent poolees had failed at Recruit Training.
It turned out to be a female that I had befriended while she was in DEP. She had been enthusiastic about boot camp, to the point of working hard to get her date moved up. She'd left near the end of October.
But I didn't understand how she could fail. I'd felt she could handle it.
'So she gave up?', I ask my recruiter, trying to prod for details.
Pretty much. Now shes failed and is coming home.
As I wait for my turn to talk to the GySgt, the other recruiter has now gotten off the phone and takes the oppurtunity to talk to me about Recruit Training. He tells of his own experiences and reiterates the idea that the Drill Instructors are there to help you although it may not appear that way.
He even mentions how at one point he came to a breaking point. He woke up one morning and decided he was going to do any of the training.
As the Drill Instructors ordered the other recruits around he remained standing where he was.
Finally the Drill Instructors ordered everyone out. One of the DI's then returned and came up to him.
'So this is it? you're just going to pussy out? And let down your family and friends and go home a failure?'
The recruiter said at that point the DI had him. He couldn't quit. And he finished Recruit Training, earned the title of Marine and is now a Sergeant.
A few minutes later the GySgt finally calls me in along with another poolee. He tells us why he has called us there: to make sure we understand what we're getting into. To make sure we understand what Recruit Training is. He mentions that he is greatly dissapointed in the two failures at Recruit Training that have occured in the past two weeks. Apparently they couldn't take it, and so forth.
Eventually he dismisses the other Poolee.
He then elaborates on my friend's situation. It seemed that one day she'd gone to medical and told them she wanted to kill herself.
After hearing this, it slowly sinks in. I still can't believe shes not going to make it. I was so sure she'd graduate. She'd seemed strong.
And then I start thinking, if she can't make it, whats to say I will? I can't help but to start comparing myself to her failure.
But at the same time the GySgt goes on to tell me not to compare myself to her. I am not her. And just because she failed, does not mean I will too.
He notes the effort I've put in these last few months to get where I am now. I've worked too hard to get this far and fail. He doesn't expect that from me.
And he wants to see me graduate.
He then mentions, that if he has to, he will write me everyday to help me get through Recruit Training. He'd even make the other recruiters write to me, if that would help.
I smile at the gesture. At least I know they support me.
November 11th- Veteran's Day
Up at 4am, at the office by 530am.
Sergeant B drives myself and 3 other poolees to Orlando to take our IST.
After the talk with GySgt, I'd spent the rest of the day contemplating my morale. I finally resolved that I could make it. I told myself 'This is going to suck, but this is what I want'.
Now at the IST I pictured all of the people rooting for my success:
My recruiters, all of the members of my Explorer's Post, Friends from church, Friends from school, and my fellow poolees. Standing with them would be my family. My parents and distant relatives. And the few members that had recently been lost to death, my grandma, uncle, and a great aunt. And just as proud, would be my grandpa who passed away while I was a kid. He was a Marine, and I wished to make him proud.
And they were all there, 'standing in my balcony', cheering me on as I held the bar for the Flex Arm Hang, knocked out crunches in 2mins, and ran my heart out on the 1.5 mile.
At the end of the day I had
28 secs FAH
83 crunches
1.5 mile in 14:15
I passed my IST!
When I got back to the office I smiled as the recruiter's told me 'good job'.
Now I have a month before I leave for Recruit Training, Parris Island.
Monday, October 25, 2010
Progress
My time in the DEP has been full of ups and downs. Usually the downs are much larger than the ups, but there are more ups to make up for it.
When I was first sworn in back in April my bootcamp date was September 20th.
But having only started working on my running in January I was still greatly struggling with the run time. To ship out I needed 14:30 for the 1.5 mile run.
As the date got closer I was struggling with just getting to 15mins.
A month before the date, I was given my 30 day pre ship test and I completely failed. My run time was atrocious at 16:50.
That day was a huge dissapointment and a blow to my heart.
But as much as I hated the loss of my date, I was more worried that I'd ruined my chances of getting the job I wanted.
Fortunately my worries were put at ease as the GySgt worked to get my job back, and with it came a new date in December.
Since that huge failure the GySgt has made it his mission to see me leave. Running with me three times a week, he has pushed me hard. And its paying off.
In October I was looking at a run time of 15:10.
Today I'm looking at 14:36!
Next Thursday will probably be my 30 day pre ship test. I have no intention of repeating my failure in August.
When I was first sworn in back in April my bootcamp date was September 20th.
But having only started working on my running in January I was still greatly struggling with the run time. To ship out I needed 14:30 for the 1.5 mile run.
As the date got closer I was struggling with just getting to 15mins.
A month before the date, I was given my 30 day pre ship test and I completely failed. My run time was atrocious at 16:50.
That day was a huge dissapointment and a blow to my heart.
But as much as I hated the loss of my date, I was more worried that I'd ruined my chances of getting the job I wanted.
Fortunately my worries were put at ease as the GySgt worked to get my job back, and with it came a new date in December.
Since that huge failure the GySgt has made it his mission to see me leave. Running with me three times a week, he has pushed me hard. And its paying off.
In October I was looking at a run time of 15:10.
Today I'm looking at 14:36!
Next Thursday will probably be my 30 day pre ship test. I have no intention of repeating my failure in August.
Monday, October 4, 2010
Declining an Award
Background:
I'm a member of a community service club for teenagers and young adults up to age 21. The club is part of the local Sheriff's office and overseen by two Deputies. As a member of the club, we learn about law enforcement and help the Sheriff's office by participating at community events.
The Award:
Every year a Council from the Sheriff's Office has an award ceremony where they give out different awards, recognizing people for their accomplishments and such. One of the awards is given out in recognition of an outstanding member of our club.
The Situation:
Two weeks ago the Deputies notified us that they'd sent in their three nominations for the award and the council would choose from the three.
In order to determine the best nominee the Council would read a brief description on each member that was written by the advisors. And then choose from that and perhaps from some input given by the Deputies/Advisors.
That same week, three days after our weekly club meeting I receive a phone call from another Deputy in the Sheriff's Office. She'd called on the Council's behalf to notify me that I had been chosen from the three for the award.
--_--_--_--_--_--_--_--_--_--_--_--_--_--_--_--_--_--_--_--_--_--
Since then I've been trying to decline the Award.
After I'd gotten off the phone with this Deputy I spent the next few hours thinking about the Award.
I came to the conclusion that the system was flawed, and I'd only been chosen out of favoritism. Not only did I feel they chose me because I was painted in a better light, But I also felt the other applicants were more deserving for the award. They both had leadership skills that outweighed my own and had shown more commitment to the club than myself.
So that night I wrote an email back explaining my reservations and wish to decline the award.
The following week, last Friday, the Deputy called me back to discuss the matter. Her objective was to persuade me that I was being modest and really did deserve the award. But I wouldn't alter my stance and held to my desire to decline the award.
This meant she'd have to go back to the Council and tell them they'd need to pick another nominee, or they could choose not to have an Award for this year.
At one point during the conversation she stated I was 'looking a gift horse in the mouth'.
So now I felt the situation had been resolved. My feelings on the matter had been accepted and now they'd move on. Either choosing another nominee or none at all.
So long as the situation could just be swept under the carpet, I was more than happy to forget I'd ever been a runner up.
I'm a member of a community service club for teenagers and young adults up to age 21. The club is part of the local Sheriff's office and overseen by two Deputies. As a member of the club, we learn about law enforcement and help the Sheriff's office by participating at community events.
The Award:
Every year a Council from the Sheriff's Office has an award ceremony where they give out different awards, recognizing people for their accomplishments and such. One of the awards is given out in recognition of an outstanding member of our club.
The Situation:
Two weeks ago the Deputies notified us that they'd sent in their three nominations for the award and the council would choose from the three.
In order to determine the best nominee the Council would read a brief description on each member that was written by the advisors. And then choose from that and perhaps from some input given by the Deputies/Advisors.
That same week, three days after our weekly club meeting I receive a phone call from another Deputy in the Sheriff's Office. She'd called on the Council's behalf to notify me that I had been chosen from the three for the award.
--_--_--_--_--_--_--_--_--_--_--_--_--_--_--_--_--_--_--_--_--_--
Since then I've been trying to decline the Award.
After I'd gotten off the phone with this Deputy I spent the next few hours thinking about the Award.
I came to the conclusion that the system was flawed, and I'd only been chosen out of favoritism. Not only did I feel they chose me because I was painted in a better light, But I also felt the other applicants were more deserving for the award. They both had leadership skills that outweighed my own and had shown more commitment to the club than myself.
So that night I wrote an email back explaining my reservations and wish to decline the award.
The following week, last Friday, the Deputy called me back to discuss the matter. Her objective was to persuade me that I was being modest and really did deserve the award. But I wouldn't alter my stance and held to my desire to decline the award.
This meant she'd have to go back to the Council and tell them they'd need to pick another nominee, or they could choose not to have an Award for this year.
At one point during the conversation she stated I was 'looking a gift horse in the mouth'.
So now I felt the situation had been resolved. My feelings on the matter had been accepted and now they'd move on. Either choosing another nominee or none at all.
So long as the situation could just be swept under the carpet, I was more than happy to forget I'd ever been a runner up.
--_--_--_--_--_--_--_--_--_--_--_--
My hopes had been unfounded. Today I received a call from one of the other Deputies, one of our Advisors. It seemed he also wanted to persuade me to accept the award. I felt at a loss. I'd believed the situation over, the council having been alerted and probably now choosing someone else. But it seemed the Deputies still figured they could persuade me otherwise.
So we spent at least five minutes on the phone. He trying to find out my reservations and prove I had no reason to not accept the award. He defended the selection process and assured me I had not been chosen out of favoritism and certainly deserved the award. He also stated how the Deputies having to choose someone else would make them look bad, since it was like they made a bad choice.
After I got off the phone I was completely conflicted. Now I faced the dilema of making things even more difficult for everyone.
For the next several hours I tried to seek advice through a friend and re-evaluate the meaning of the award and my reservations.
One person brought up something I'd never thought about. They pointed out how it was certainly something that would look good on my resume for the future when applying with an agency.
But where as this point should have seem a valid reason to accept the Award, I found it as a reason no to accept the award. I couldn't picture myself adding the nomination to my resume.
I wouldn't feel I'd deserved it, and would feel like a fraud for placing it on my resume as though it were an accomplishment I'd earned.
I ended up sending a short text back to the Deputy, deciding I had nothing to say on the phone.
The message included my 'hopefully' final declination of the Award, and how I couldn't accept something that meant nothing to me.
Friday, May 28, 2010
CamelBak Annadel Hydration Pack - 50 oz. - Women's
http://www.rei.com/product/795864This week I bought my first CamelBak from Rei.com
Its an Annadel, made for women.
I have yet to try it out but I wanted to post some pictures of it for those interested.
These were taken right after i received it in the mail.
Front
The front of the CamelBak has two zipper compartments.
Back
Adjustable Chest Strap
To access the "CamelBak OMEGA Reservoir - 50 fl. oz."
there is a opening on the back secured by velcro.
there is a opening on the back secured by velcro.
Once I break this CamelBak in I'll post more pics and intel. Later!
Sunday, April 11, 2010
First IST
Saturday was my first IST in the DEP.
I was considerably nervous and not looking forward to it. My nervousness was coming from me being a shy person and cringing at the idea of being around 30 or so strangers.
But after driving myself crazy the night before with debating on whether or not to go, I finally resolved to just go through with it. Better to get it over with instead of letting it torture me until the next IST.
We met at the recruiting office at 8am. Most of the Poolees wore the dark blue shirt with the red Eagle, Globe, and Anchor on the front and 'Marines' on the back.
First everyone had their height and weight done.
Then we all lined up and everyone did the pull-ups. Myself and another female did the flex arm hang. Minimum is 12 secs for females. I did 15secs. Not great but at least I have time for improvement.
We then carpooled to a paved trail for the 1.5 mile run. We all gathered around the start line and waited for them to start the time. We had to run half the distance out, till we made contact with the recruiter that was waiting for us, and then turned and ran back to the starting line where the GySgt waited and gave our times as we passed. I was the last one over the line at 15min 15secs. Minimum is 15mins.
My recruiter said I'd had a decent pace but now I just need to work on endurance. For the second half of the run I was having a hard time and slowed to a walking pace a few times.
We got done with everything about 9:30am.
So overall it wasn't a bad day.
I'm glad I went out. Feels alot better to have conquered that 'fear' instead of letting it remain to bother me.
I was considerably nervous and not looking forward to it. My nervousness was coming from me being a shy person and cringing at the idea of being around 30 or so strangers.
But after driving myself crazy the night before with debating on whether or not to go, I finally resolved to just go through with it. Better to get it over with instead of letting it torture me until the next IST.
We met at the recruiting office at 8am. Most of the Poolees wore the dark blue shirt with the red Eagle, Globe, and Anchor on the front and 'Marines' on the back.
First everyone had their height and weight done.
Then we all lined up and everyone did the pull-ups. Myself and another female did the flex arm hang. Minimum is 12 secs for females. I did 15secs. Not great but at least I have time for improvement.
This bar is like the one in the recruiter's office.
Females are assisted up to the bar.
Next we got in two lines, facing eachother, so that we were paired off. The other female and myself were partners. You're given 2 minutes to knock out as many crunches as possible. I just barely got 43, and minimum is 44.
This was how we did the partnered crunches.
We then carpooled to a paved trail for the 1.5 mile run. We all gathered around the start line and waited for them to start the time. We had to run half the distance out, till we made contact with the recruiter that was waiting for us, and then turned and ran back to the starting line where the GySgt waited and gave our times as we passed. I was the last one over the line at 15min 15secs. Minimum is 15mins.
My recruiter said I'd had a decent pace but now I just need to work on endurance. For the second half of the run I was having a hard time and slowed to a walking pace a few times.
We got done with everything about 9:30am.
So overall it wasn't a bad day.
I'm glad I went out. Feels alot better to have conquered that 'fear' instead of letting it remain to bother me.
Sunday, April 4, 2010
MEPS- DEP contract with Marine Corps (female)
Well I finally signed my DEP contract this month.
So heres a run down of how it went for me.
Wake-Up
I didn't spend the night at the hotel. Instead I woke up at 4am and drove out to the recruiter's office and met him there at 5:15am. (Its always a good idea to get plenty of sleep the night before. You can't fall asleep at MEPS and prepare to learn the concept of 'hurry up and wait'.)
I and 3 others (all guys) were then driven by the recruiter to the MEPS station. I think we got there about 6:00am or so. At some point the MEPS people started lining everyone up. First line was for shippers, then those for physical, inspects, Dep, etc.
MEPS
You go through a metal detector and note its a Federal Building, so don't be stupid. Don't wear a hat, no gum chewing, no pocket knifes, no smoking, etc.
Also remember to be respectful and drop the 'yeah' and say 'yes sir/ yes mam' (and no sir/ no mam).
First thing was reporting to our Liaison, for me that was the Marines. They give you a sticker to wear on the right side of your chest. It has your name on it, military branch, and other info.
I was then directed to the Main Control Desk where I picked up my medical folder and waited for the rest of the people to do the same. There was at least 50 others that were also there to DEP in. The Marines have this thing where they like to DEP everyone in on the first days of the month, so I think of majority of the peeps were soon to be Marine Poolees.
Medical
So after waiting for awhile, we were then directed to form a line to go to the Medical side.
You check in with the Medical control desk, they look over your folder then you're directed to do whatever.
Females had to go to the female examination area. We first had to do a urine test (unobserved) so they could do a pregnancy test. Then down to you underwear for another height/weight, and a quick lookover by the doc.
Hurry Up and Wait
Once done with that you go back to the Medical control desk to check out of Medical. Then its off to your Liaison to report back with your folder. Turned mine in and was told to take a seat (luckily there was an empty one in the crowded waiting room). While waiting and waiting and waiting I sat among a bunch of other people waiting like I was. We were stuck watching the Espn channel all day. Sometimes you'd notice somebody start nodding off so it was courtesy to nudge them so they wouldn't get in trouble. As the day wears on it gets harder to stay awake when you've got nothing to do but sit in the same chair for an hour. It helps to chat with your neighbor, at least then you're less likely to fall asleep.
Finally at some point, probably around 10am, my name was called and I went into the Marine liaison office. There was about 4 Marines cramped in there all working on getting the many future poolees processed.
A GySgt sat down with me and started going over all of my paperwork with me. Half the time he was asking me the same question but in 10 different ways, to make sure I wasn't lying. They want to make sure you don't lie about drugs, traffic violations, etc. I've never had any problems with the law so I had no problems there. 'Have you ever used drugs?', "No sir". 'Are you sure?', "Yes sir."
Easy stuff, just don't lie. It will probably come to haunt you later if you do.
On one of the papers it shows your prospective bootcamp date. Now this is an automatic bootcamp date, meant to fill in open spaces and just to get you a date. When you do your MOS selection that date will probably change.
When the GySgt told me my date I was a little freaked. Here its April and the GySgt was telling me I'd go to bootcamp May 24th, eesh. Straight up I told him I had little confidence in my ability of being ready by then. But like any 'confident' Marine, he assured me they'd get me ready by then, no worries, lol.
Luckily for me, I already knew I had been slotted for a MOS with a bootcamp date in August, so once thats worked into my contract the date will change from May to August.
Well after going through that I was then sent to Main control desk, from there they sent me to Processing. After waiting for a little bit more, I then sat in a cubicle with a lady who went over the DEP contract and made sure I understood 'fraudulent enlistment', etc.
Once done there she gave me a paper which I took back to my Liaison.
I then sat in the waiting area for some more time before being called in. Signed another paper and then was sent back to the Main control desk to do the Swearing ceremony.
By then it was lunch time so the lady at the desk told me to grab lunch since I had some time before the next ceremony started. Lunch is served about 11am to 1pm.
They have sandwiches (cheap sub) that basically has meat and cheese. Theres also side snacks like cookies and chips. You can get a soda or water.
Course if that doesn't hold your appetitie over theres also snack machines and such.
Just remember that no food or drinks leave the Dining area, else you'll get yelled at.
Oath of Enlistment
Once done with 'lunch' I went back to the waiting area in front of the Main Control Desk and waited for the next Oath Ceremony. The tv here had USA on, didn't recognize the show though. After sitting and waiting some more they finally made an announcement for the next Oath of Enlistment ceremony.
Those of us that were ready went into the briefing room which is connect to the ceremony room.
The briefing room had several rows of school desks and we took a seat and waited. A guy came in and quickly briefed us on several articles from the Uniform Code of Military Justice. He then had the guys go into the ceremony room giving the females privacy. Males and Females had to remove their jackets, making sure their name tag stayed on their shirt, and tucked in their shirts.
Once ready everyone filed into the ceremony room and stood in rows before the podium. The guy then instructed us on parade rest and standing at attention. Once briefed on how the ceremony would be conducted he left us at parade rest while he went out to get the officer.
After a few minutes an Army Captain walked in, and when ordered at attention we had to say 'Freedom's front Door' (Meps thing, idk). The Cpt was very nice and cordial.
We were then instructed to raise our right hand and one at a time we each stated our full name. Once everyone had said their name we repeated the Oath as she stated it.
I, Full Name, do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend that Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; and that I will obey the orders of the President of the United States and the orders of the officers appointed over me, according to regulations and the Uniform Code of Military Justice. So help me God.
She then congratulated each of us and shook our hands before leading us back into the briefing room. Each of us then biometrically signed our contract and had our picture taken (photo appears on the contract). A copy was then printed for us to keep and we were sent back to our Liaisons.
The Marine Liaison congratulated us, got a t-shirt, and was instructed to contact my recruiter.
My day was done.
Course I still had to wait on the others that I rode there with. So even though I was done at 1230pm I didn't actually leave MEPS until 5pm (And in some cases thats still considered 'early').
Have Fun!
So heres a run down of how it went for me.
Wake-Up
I didn't spend the night at the hotel. Instead I woke up at 4am and drove out to the recruiter's office and met him there at 5:15am. (Its always a good idea to get plenty of sleep the night before. You can't fall asleep at MEPS and prepare to learn the concept of 'hurry up and wait'.)
I and 3 others (all guys) were then driven by the recruiter to the MEPS station. I think we got there about 6:00am or so. At some point the MEPS people started lining everyone up. First line was for shippers, then those for physical, inspects, Dep, etc.
MEPS
You go through a metal detector and note its a Federal Building, so don't be stupid. Don't wear a hat, no gum chewing, no pocket knifes, no smoking, etc.
Also remember to be respectful and drop the 'yeah' and say 'yes sir/ yes mam' (and no sir/ no mam).
First thing was reporting to our Liaison, for me that was the Marines. They give you a sticker to wear on the right side of your chest. It has your name on it, military branch, and other info.
I was then directed to the Main Control Desk where I picked up my medical folder and waited for the rest of the people to do the same. There was at least 50 others that were also there to DEP in. The Marines have this thing where they like to DEP everyone in on the first days of the month, so I think of majority of the peeps were soon to be Marine Poolees.
Medical
So after waiting for awhile, we were then directed to form a line to go to the Medical side.
You check in with the Medical control desk, they look over your folder then you're directed to do whatever.
Females had to go to the female examination area. We first had to do a urine test (unobserved) so they could do a pregnancy test. Then down to you underwear for another height/weight, and a quick lookover by the doc.
Hurry Up and Wait
Once done with that you go back to the Medical control desk to check out of Medical. Then its off to your Liaison to report back with your folder. Turned mine in and was told to take a seat (luckily there was an empty one in the crowded waiting room). While waiting and waiting and waiting I sat among a bunch of other people waiting like I was. We were stuck watching the Espn channel all day. Sometimes you'd notice somebody start nodding off so it was courtesy to nudge them so they wouldn't get in trouble. As the day wears on it gets harder to stay awake when you've got nothing to do but sit in the same chair for an hour. It helps to chat with your neighbor, at least then you're less likely to fall asleep.
Finally at some point, probably around 10am, my name was called and I went into the Marine liaison office. There was about 4 Marines cramped in there all working on getting the many future poolees processed.
A GySgt sat down with me and started going over all of my paperwork with me. Half the time he was asking me the same question but in 10 different ways, to make sure I wasn't lying. They want to make sure you don't lie about drugs, traffic violations, etc. I've never had any problems with the law so I had no problems there. 'Have you ever used drugs?', "No sir". 'Are you sure?', "Yes sir."
Easy stuff, just don't lie. It will probably come to haunt you later if you do.
On one of the papers it shows your prospective bootcamp date. Now this is an automatic bootcamp date, meant to fill in open spaces and just to get you a date. When you do your MOS selection that date will probably change.
When the GySgt told me my date I was a little freaked. Here its April and the GySgt was telling me I'd go to bootcamp May 24th, eesh. Straight up I told him I had little confidence in my ability of being ready by then. But like any 'confident' Marine, he assured me they'd get me ready by then, no worries, lol.
Luckily for me, I already knew I had been slotted for a MOS with a bootcamp date in August, so once thats worked into my contract the date will change from May to August.
Well after going through that I was then sent to Main control desk, from there they sent me to Processing. After waiting for a little bit more, I then sat in a cubicle with a lady who went over the DEP contract and made sure I understood 'fraudulent enlistment', etc.
Once done there she gave me a paper which I took back to my Liaison.
I then sat in the waiting area for some more time before being called in. Signed another paper and then was sent back to the Main control desk to do the Swearing ceremony.
By then it was lunch time so the lady at the desk told me to grab lunch since I had some time before the next ceremony started. Lunch is served about 11am to 1pm.
They have sandwiches (cheap sub) that basically has meat and cheese. Theres also side snacks like cookies and chips. You can get a soda or water.
Course if that doesn't hold your appetitie over theres also snack machines and such.
Just remember that no food or drinks leave the Dining area, else you'll get yelled at.
Oath of Enlistment
Once done with 'lunch' I went back to the waiting area in front of the Main Control Desk and waited for the next Oath Ceremony. The tv here had USA on, didn't recognize the show though. After sitting and waiting some more they finally made an announcement for the next Oath of Enlistment ceremony.
Those of us that were ready went into the briefing room which is connect to the ceremony room.
The briefing room had several rows of school desks and we took a seat and waited. A guy came in and quickly briefed us on several articles from the Uniform Code of Military Justice. He then had the guys go into the ceremony room giving the females privacy. Males and Females had to remove their jackets, making sure their name tag stayed on their shirt, and tucked in their shirts.
Once ready everyone filed into the ceremony room and stood in rows before the podium. The guy then instructed us on parade rest and standing at attention. Once briefed on how the ceremony would be conducted he left us at parade rest while he went out to get the officer.
After a few minutes an Army Captain walked in, and when ordered at attention we had to say 'Freedom's front Door' (Meps thing, idk). The Cpt was very nice and cordial.
We were then instructed to raise our right hand and one at a time we each stated our full name. Once everyone had said their name we repeated the Oath as she stated it.
I, Full Name, do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend that Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; and that I will obey the orders of the President of the United States and the orders of the officers appointed over me, according to regulations and the Uniform Code of Military Justice. So help me God.
She then congratulated each of us and shook our hands before leading us back into the briefing room. Each of us then biometrically signed our contract and had our picture taken (photo appears on the contract). A copy was then printed for us to keep and we were sent back to our Liaisons.
The Marine Liaison congratulated us, got a t-shirt, and was instructed to contact my recruiter.
My day was done.
Course I still had to wait on the others that I rode there with. So even though I was done at 1230pm I didn't actually leave MEPS until 5pm (And in some cases thats still considered 'early').
Have Fun!
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Female Physical at MEPS
I'm writing about my experience with the Physical at MEPS in the hopes it answers some female's questions about what to expect. You'll survive. I did, and I'm a quiet shy girl. Granted your experience may differ as every facility has their own way of doing things. So this is how it went at the Tampa MEPS.
Enlistment Process
Like any enlistment process mine started out with talking to the Marine recruiter. About a week after that I'm taking the cat-asvab at MEPS. Wasn't too bad. I'd taken the paper version over two years prior. Got a higher score on the computer version. Asvab done, the recruiter schedules me for a physical within two weeks. Talking about being rushed. And I can't even 'enlist' into DEP for almost a month but I guess the sooner you get these things done the quicker the enlistment process.
The Physical
Started with waking up at 4am. I didn't have to spend the night at a hotel therefore I was able to enjoy sleeping in my own bed for about six hours. Left the house by 445 and was at the recruiter's office by 515am. The Marine office where my recruiter works has about four Marine recruiters. So besides myself there were also four other applicants, all males, going to get their physical done as well. First we were each read a list of questions about medical history and criminal background to make sure we hadn't changed our answers and everything had been covered. After that we were loaded in the van and started for MEPS. I think we were on the road by 545am. Unfortunately the 30min drive took longer than expected as we were delayed by an accident on the interstate. Fortunately they were able to call ahead and get things worked out with MEPS. I think we finally got there about 630am. By the time we got there they were already filing people in.
Make sure you don't bring any weapons. I'm a country girl so I typically carry a pocket knife and wear a baseball cap. But when going to MEPS I had to leave both of those at home. As soon as I walked into the door with the others we were told to empty our pockets and go through the metal detector. Once through there you're directed to your liason's office. They give you a name tag that has your name, the branch you're enlisting with, and a few other things. You'll place this on the right side of your chest. They then had us go into an 'interview room'. In there I met another female who was enlisting with the Marine Corps. She was the only other future female Marine I met at the physical. The rest of the girls (7 others) were for the other branches. One of the Marines came into the room and briefed us on Fraudulent Enlistment. Once done there they sent us back out into the main hall where an Airforce woman directed us to line up with the rest of the people. They formed two lines on either side of the hall. A man then started walking down the line collecting a paper. I didn't have it on me as I'd handed my packet to the Marine and was thus empty handed. But that didn't seem to effect anything so it all worked out. They then had some of the males step out for a third line and all of the females lined up behind them. We were then filed into the main room where the Control Desk is and one at a time we went up, used some hand sanitizer, and were handed a folder with all of our papers for the process.
We then waited in line to be placed in the system or something. The lady looked at our drivers license and social security card (mine was in the packet with the Marine, but wasn't a big deal since I was already in the system from taking my ASVAB), and took our finger print on an electronic scanner. If you're not already in the system then they get your fingerprint and take your picture. Verify your birthday, location of birth, whatever.
We were directed to the Medical area. You check in at their desk and they scan your finger, ask your hair color, eye color, etc.
Medical Briefing
We were then directed to a room for the medical briefing. The room had several rows of tables with about six chairs a row. At the front of the room was a table with two chairs beside it. There was a man doing blood pressure. You wait in line, give him your folder and he writes down your pulse and blood pressure. When done he'll hand the folder back to you and he tells you where to take a seat. When you sit down you'll notice that there is a plastic wrapper with a white tube inside it. Thats for the breathalyzer test you'll be taking at the end of the briefing.
Our briefing started at 730am. A lieutenant came into the room and explained fraudulent enlistment and its consequences. Reviewed some of the rules at MEPS and explained when lunch would be served. His speech probably lasted about ten minutes then he left and the same guy who had done blood pressure took over. He popped up a powerpoint and went through several of the medical papers in our folders. Theres a bunch of questions who have to answer, mostly check marking. Don't start filling anything out until after hes explained it. The guy talked fast so you had to listen and keep up. He got mad at one person who didn't follow directions and threatened to kick him out if he did it again. So listen to directions and you won't get on anybody's bad side.
Once hes done going through the paper work he gives you a paper with sticker labels. The labels have your social security number on it. On one label he had us write our full name. It was later used for the urine test. You then line up with your folder and the Breathalyzer tube for your mouth. He instructed us to pop one end through the wrapper and hand it to him like so and one by one you take the breathalyzer and he writes down the results.
Blood Test
He then instructed myself and the rest of the females to the next area for blood tests. We sat in chairs lined against a wall and waited our turn to go into either of two 'stalls' where the person would take your folder and get what they needed from it including a sticker. I donate blood every so often so they had no trouble drawing blood from me. They stick the needle in, then collect some blood in a vile and you're good to go. They tape a cottonball to your arm and you're given back the folder and you go to the next area.
Vision Test
I was then directed to a vision test. Again had to wait but not as long. At each 'station', I strike a convo with the person next to me to pass the time. Generally they all get started the same way, "So what branch?". Granted you can just as easily look at their name tag to find out but it helps to break the ice.
When it was my turn I went in and they took my folder. I was first directed to stand a certain distance from the table where a notebook lay. The lady then flipped through about ten pages and each time I had to say what number there was. It was meant to check your color blindness. You get about 5secs to answer for each one. Goes pretty quick. I then took a seat and had to look through this thing much like a microscope but you saw a mini version of the eye chart. The lady asked me to read the smallest line I could see comfortably and did this for each eye.
Hearing Test
Once done I get my folder back and was directed to the hearing test. Again waiting. Again asking my neighbor what branch. Its actually kind of interesting to learn about everyone's different reasons. And it helps to make acquaintances since you're bound to bump into them again at some other area of MEPS. At one point while talking to the lady sitting next to me the man administering the hearing test came out of the room and grabbed folders from the six of us sitting there and then he went back in. A few minutes later he came back in and directed those of us whos folders he'd taken to come in. He then calls your name and tells you the number of your station. You step inside a Container/room that is 'sound proof' and has eight stations. At each station is a stool for you to sit on. After listening to the man's directions you then place the headphones over your ears exactly as he said to and pick up the clicker. He'll then close the door and the test starts. A male voice comes over the headphones explaining the test and then you push the button on the clicker everytime you hear a beep. They vary in pitch so just relax and breath out of your mouth so you can hear them better. When you finish it the male voice comes back on to say that you are done. You wait until the man opens the door and then you can take the headphones off and step out. He then staples a printout to one of the papers in your folder and writes some numbers and hands it back to you.
I was then directed to the female examination room. I arrived with another female who had taken the hearing test at the same time. One of the Airforce ladies from earlier appeared and asked if we were ready for our urine test. She then escorted us through a door. When we first entered there was a curtain which we stepped past. On the opposite wall was a sliding window that opened to a room where the medical personnel were probably working on the blood and urine they'd collect throughout the day. To the right was the bathroom area. There were two stalls and on the opposite wall was two sinks and a mirror covering the width of the wall.
We were each directed to peep off the sticker that had our name on it and it was placed halfway on a plastic cup that you'd use to collect the urine. You then take a stall and do your thing. The Airforce lady held the stall doors open and watched by the mirror. Unfortunately I wasn't as ready as I'd hoped so I had to try again later. You get stuck drinking water and when you HAVE to go not even nervousness should keep you from giving a sample, lol. Once you've filled your cup half way you place it on the floor in front of you and finish your business. You're then directed to pick up the cup and stand by the window with your back against the wall. A medical person will show up at the window and have you place the cup in a tray. While he poured some of it into another container I was instructed to use the hand sanitizer. After the dude did what he needed to do I signed a paper. I then had to take what was left in the original container, flush it, toss the container in the trash, and wash my hands.
Height and Weight
Back in the female examination room you have to strip down to your underwear so they can take your height and weight. As weird as it is to be in your underwear it actually wasn't that bad. I had been dreading this part but you start to realize that everyone is nervous and it doesn't seem that bad. And when you're one of nine chicks and you're all in your underwear it isn't that embarrassing.
You give your folder to the lady and she has you step on a scale so she can take your weight. Then you stand against the wall and they use then attached to the wall that slides up and down to get your exact height. They slide it down till it touches your head, you step away, and they read the height. If your 66.5 then they round up to 67. She then looked at some papers on the wall which were the height/weight charts for each branch. If you don't fit within the weight bracket then you have to be taped.
Examination
After our height and weight we were directed to take off our underwear and put on a blue gown. Its a cheap paper thing with a slit on one side. The slit has to be at the front. Wear it like a robe basically and you can tie it shut while you're waiting your turn for the doc. It does suck to be literally naked but again everyone else is as well so it doesn't feel that weird.
This part took the longest. First we had to wait for the doc to show up (turned out a few of the doctors had taken the day off), then we had to wait for each girl to get through her examination. Depending on your medical history your examination can be pretty quick or take a little more time. I have no medical problems and such so mine went pretty quick. While we waited we chatted with eachother. Introductions started out with finding out branches and from there it was whatever came up. When the first girl got our from her examination we found out from her what to expect.
When your name is called you go into the room where the doctor is and one of the female personnel. First I had to take a seat, which felt weird cause now I was the only person in the room without all of my clothes on. And I was dreading the 'stirrups' since I've never done that before. The doc looked over my folder and asked questions about doing drugs and my last period etc. I think he was from china or something, pretty thick accent so I really had to concentrate on what he said. I was then directed to stand up. He had me follow a light with my eyes, without moving my head. Then he looked at each eye with one of those handheld things. Then you go 'ahh'.
Nows the part where you just patiently wait for the examination to be over, lol.
He got his stethoscope and had me hold my left breast to the side as he listened to my heart. Then I had to turn around and he pulled the gown down so he could listen to my breathing by placing the stethoscope on my back and having me breath in and out. Then it was onto the table, slide down so your butt is at the edge and place feet in the 'stirrups'. He takes a look at your vagina, nothing is inserted. Then its onto your side so he check your butt, guess it was for hemorrhoids. Then you roll onto your back and he checks your stomach by pressing on it with his hands then he gropes your breasts checking for whatever. And that was pretty much it. You get off the table, straighten your 'robe', take your folder, and go back out to the other girls.
Physical Exercises
We changed back into our underwear for this part. We lined up along one side of the room and did as they female told us to while the doctor watched. Um, memory is a little hazy so I might not remember everything, and the order we did them is probably off. But heres the ones I do remember.
(1) First was some hand movements. Elbows at 90 degrees so the arm below elbow is parallel with floor. Keeping the arms still with elbows against your body you do the following stuff: open and close your hand, move the hand up and down, side to side, rotate in a circular fashion, touch your fingers to your thumb, etc.
(2) Turn around to face the wall and you bend one knee so you can grab the ankle with your hand. Can't use the wall to balance yourself. Doc walks down the row looking at the bottom of your foot. And you do the same thing for the other side.
(3) Walk on your heels a few paces. And walk on your toes a few paces.
(4) Swing your arms like a windmill, start by making an 'A' over your head and swing them behind you. If your going too slow they'll tell you to go faster.
(5) Stand with feet together and arms pointed straight out in front of you. Hands flat, palms against eachother. As you swing your arms open (like the chick on titanic), you go up on your toes.
(6) Have arms straight up, like your reaching for the sky, then you bring them down to your sides quickly, but stop without slapping your sides.
(7) Starting with the right foot, stand on the left and lift your right foot so your knee is slightly bent. Rotate foot at the ankle. Then point toes up, down, clench toes like a 'fist'. Then you'll bend your knee some more and have your toes pointed up, ankle down. They'll have you kick towards the front but you don't touch the ground. So keep balancing on that left foot. Then you lift the right foot up again, toes still up, and kick towards the back, again not touching the ground.
And you do the same stuff with the other foot.
(8) You're gonna do some squats with your hands on your hips.
(9) Walk on your knees.
(10) One by one you duck walk. We could either have our hands on our hips or our knees. You're in the squatting position and while keeping your butt down you step, making sure to do heel to toe. You duck walk about five paces out, then back. You can't be 'cute' when you're doing the duck walk, so just get those knees apart and waddle across the floor in a most unflattering manner like everyone else, lol. And take your time.
(11) Back in the squatting position, hands on your hips, and thighs pressed together, one at a time you drop to your knees. You need both knees to slap the floor at the same time.
(12) Last thing we did was do a fast walk from one side of the room to the other. Most of the girls were fine. But with one girl and myself the lady pointed out to the doc that we walked with one shoulder lower than the other. The doc didn't seem worried about it though. So I 'passed' my physical.
Throw your clothes back on and wait for the doc to give you your folder. Our examination, from urine test to the exercises lasted from about 930am to 1pm due to all the waiting. We were then directed to the Medical desk to basically 'check out' of the medical area. Again waiting in line. When its your turn you give them your folder, scan finger. They go through some papers, etc. You are then directed to go back to your liaison. Since the females got done 5mins before lunch was over, the guy at the desk told me to get lunch first then see my liaison. So I rushed over to the cafeteria and got a turkey sub. Nothing great but better then nothing when your last meal was at 430am.
Liaison
The guy at the medical desk had handed me some papers before I'd gone to lunch so when I got to the liaison area I knocked on my branches office door. While waiting for one of the Marines I noticed the four guys I'd ridden with in the morning. Turns out they'd gotten done at 11am and had been waiting for me, lol.
One of the Marines took my papers and when it was my turn had me come in. Asked me some more questions about whether I'd done drugs, traffic violations, etc. I then had to sign some papers for the background check. One of the Marines gave me some papers and had me go to the main control desk as they wanted me to get fingerprinted. At the control desk they gave me back my folder and I was directed to the Processing area.
Fingerprints
In the processing area I had to wait with a few others. Luckily they were familiar faces. One female which had gone through the physical with me, and two males (twin brothers), one of which I'd talked to while waiting for the vision test. While waiting we passed the time chatting about the ASVAB, medical processing, and our enlistments. I think the brothers were going Navy, and the girls was probably Army.
Finally at some point the people were ready for us. One lady took me to a cubicle where she scanned my finger, brought up my file and asked me who I'd want my last paycheck and such to go to. She then had to check with another person about the fingerprinting.
Since I wasn't enlisting till March they were asked to 'hold' my fingerprints and wait to send them until I actually 'enlisted'.
I was then taken to a computer for fingerprinting. They had to redo several of my prints because of the scars from working outside.
Done
Once completed with that I had to go back to my liaison. Gave them the papers I was handed and they told me to call my recruiter as I was done. By then it was 240pm. In the waiting room of the Liaison section I noticed the guys were gone so I called my recruiter. He said the other Marine recruiter was there, so he called him and told him I was ready. Turns out he was waiting in the van with the rest of the guys. So he came back inside, got me, turned in my name tag at the Main Control Desk, and I was free!
I go back in a month to 'enlist' into the DEP. I believe thats when I do the job selection and first contract.
Enlistment Process
Like any enlistment process mine started out with talking to the Marine recruiter. About a week after that I'm taking the cat-asvab at MEPS. Wasn't too bad. I'd taken the paper version over two years prior. Got a higher score on the computer version. Asvab done, the recruiter schedules me for a physical within two weeks. Talking about being rushed. And I can't even 'enlist' into DEP for almost a month but I guess the sooner you get these things done the quicker the enlistment process.
The Physical
Started with waking up at 4am. I didn't have to spend the night at a hotel therefore I was able to enjoy sleeping in my own bed for about six hours. Left the house by 445 and was at the recruiter's office by 515am. The Marine office where my recruiter works has about four Marine recruiters. So besides myself there were also four other applicants, all males, going to get their physical done as well. First we were each read a list of questions about medical history and criminal background to make sure we hadn't changed our answers and everything had been covered. After that we were loaded in the van and started for MEPS. I think we were on the road by 545am. Unfortunately the 30min drive took longer than expected as we were delayed by an accident on the interstate. Fortunately they were able to call ahead and get things worked out with MEPS. I think we finally got there about 630am. By the time we got there they were already filing people in.
Make sure you don't bring any weapons. I'm a country girl so I typically carry a pocket knife and wear a baseball cap. But when going to MEPS I had to leave both of those at home. As soon as I walked into the door with the others we were told to empty our pockets and go through the metal detector. Once through there you're directed to your liason's office. They give you a name tag that has your name, the branch you're enlisting with, and a few other things. You'll place this on the right side of your chest. They then had us go into an 'interview room'. In there I met another female who was enlisting with the Marine Corps. She was the only other future female Marine I met at the physical. The rest of the girls (7 others) were for the other branches. One of the Marines came into the room and briefed us on Fraudulent Enlistment. Once done there they sent us back out into the main hall where an Airforce woman directed us to line up with the rest of the people. They formed two lines on either side of the hall. A man then started walking down the line collecting a paper. I didn't have it on me as I'd handed my packet to the Marine and was thus empty handed. But that didn't seem to effect anything so it all worked out. They then had some of the males step out for a third line and all of the females lined up behind them. We were then filed into the main room where the Control Desk is and one at a time we went up, used some hand sanitizer, and were handed a folder with all of our papers for the process.
We then waited in line to be placed in the system or something. The lady looked at our drivers license and social security card (mine was in the packet with the Marine, but wasn't a big deal since I was already in the system from taking my ASVAB), and took our finger print on an electronic scanner. If you're not already in the system then they get your fingerprint and take your picture. Verify your birthday, location of birth, whatever.
We were directed to the Medical area. You check in at their desk and they scan your finger, ask your hair color, eye color, etc.
Medical Briefing
We were then directed to a room for the medical briefing. The room had several rows of tables with about six chairs a row. At the front of the room was a table with two chairs beside it. There was a man doing blood pressure. You wait in line, give him your folder and he writes down your pulse and blood pressure. When done he'll hand the folder back to you and he tells you where to take a seat. When you sit down you'll notice that there is a plastic wrapper with a white tube inside it. Thats for the breathalyzer test you'll be taking at the end of the briefing.
Our briefing started at 730am. A lieutenant came into the room and explained fraudulent enlistment and its consequences. Reviewed some of the rules at MEPS and explained when lunch would be served. His speech probably lasted about ten minutes then he left and the same guy who had done blood pressure took over. He popped up a powerpoint and went through several of the medical papers in our folders. Theres a bunch of questions who have to answer, mostly check marking. Don't start filling anything out until after hes explained it. The guy talked fast so you had to listen and keep up. He got mad at one person who didn't follow directions and threatened to kick him out if he did it again. So listen to directions and you won't get on anybody's bad side.
Once hes done going through the paper work he gives you a paper with sticker labels. The labels have your social security number on it. On one label he had us write our full name. It was later used for the urine test. You then line up with your folder and the Breathalyzer tube for your mouth. He instructed us to pop one end through the wrapper and hand it to him like so and one by one you take the breathalyzer and he writes down the results.
Blood Test
He then instructed myself and the rest of the females to the next area for blood tests. We sat in chairs lined against a wall and waited our turn to go into either of two 'stalls' where the person would take your folder and get what they needed from it including a sticker. I donate blood every so often so they had no trouble drawing blood from me. They stick the needle in, then collect some blood in a vile and you're good to go. They tape a cottonball to your arm and you're given back the folder and you go to the next area.
Vision Test
I was then directed to a vision test. Again had to wait but not as long. At each 'station', I strike a convo with the person next to me to pass the time. Generally they all get started the same way, "So what branch?". Granted you can just as easily look at their name tag to find out but it helps to break the ice.When it was my turn I went in and they took my folder. I was first directed to stand a certain distance from the table where a notebook lay. The lady then flipped through about ten pages and each time I had to say what number there was. It was meant to check your color blindness. You get about 5secs to answer for each one. Goes pretty quick. I then took a seat and had to look through this thing much like a microscope but you saw a mini version of the eye chart. The lady asked me to read the smallest line I could see comfortably and did this for each eye.
Hearing Test
Once done I get my folder back and was directed to the hearing test. Again waiting. Again asking my neighbor what branch. Its actually kind of interesting to learn about everyone's different reasons. And it helps to make acquaintances since you're bound to bump into them again at some other area of MEPS. At one point while talking to the lady sitting next to me the man administering the hearing test came out of the room and grabbed folders from the six of us sitting there and then he went back in. A few minutes later he came back in and directed those of us whos folders he'd taken to come in. He then calls your name and tells you the number of your station. You step inside a Container/room that is 'sound proof' and has eight stations. At each station is a stool for you to sit on. After listening to the man's directions you then place the headphones over your ears exactly as he said to and pick up the clicker. He'll then close the door and the test starts. A male voice comes over the headphones explaining the test and then you push the button on the clicker everytime you hear a beep. They vary in pitch so just relax and breath out of your mouth so you can hear them better. When you finish it the male voice comes back on to say that you are done. You wait until the man opens the door and then you can take the headphones off and step out. He then staples a printout to one of the papers in your folder and writes some numbers and hands it back to you.Urine Test
I was then directed to the female examination room. I arrived with another female who had taken the hearing test at the same time. One of the Airforce ladies from earlier appeared and asked if we were ready for our urine test. She then escorted us through a door. When we first entered there was a curtain which we stepped past. On the opposite wall was a sliding window that opened to a room where the medical personnel were probably working on the blood and urine they'd collect throughout the day. To the right was the bathroom area. There were two stalls and on the opposite wall was two sinks and a mirror covering the width of the wall.
We were each directed to peep off the sticker that had our name on it and it was placed halfway on a plastic cup that you'd use to collect the urine. You then take a stall and do your thing. The Airforce lady held the stall doors open and watched by the mirror. Unfortunately I wasn't as ready as I'd hoped so I had to try again later. You get stuck drinking water and when you HAVE to go not even nervousness should keep you from giving a sample, lol. Once you've filled your cup half way you place it on the floor in front of you and finish your business. You're then directed to pick up the cup and stand by the window with your back against the wall. A medical person will show up at the window and have you place the cup in a tray. While he poured some of it into another container I was instructed to use the hand sanitizer. After the dude did what he needed to do I signed a paper. I then had to take what was left in the original container, flush it, toss the container in the trash, and wash my hands.
Height and Weight
Back in the female examination room you have to strip down to your underwear so they can take your height and weight. As weird as it is to be in your underwear it actually wasn't that bad. I had been dreading this part but you start to realize that everyone is nervous and it doesn't seem that bad. And when you're one of nine chicks and you're all in your underwear it isn't that embarrassing.You give your folder to the lady and she has you step on a scale so she can take your weight. Then you stand against the wall and they use then attached to the wall that slides up and down to get your exact height. They slide it down till it touches your head, you step away, and they read the height. If your 66.5 then they round up to 67. She then looked at some papers on the wall which were the height/weight charts for each branch. If you don't fit within the weight bracket then you have to be taped.
Examination
This part took the longest. First we had to wait for the doc to show up (turned out a few of the doctors had taken the day off), then we had to wait for each girl to get through her examination. Depending on your medical history your examination can be pretty quick or take a little more time. I have no medical problems and such so mine went pretty quick. While we waited we chatted with eachother. Introductions started out with finding out branches and from there it was whatever came up. When the first girl got our from her examination we found out from her what to expect.
Nows the part where you just patiently wait for the examination to be over, lol.
He got his stethoscope and had me hold my left breast to the side as he listened to my heart. Then I had to turn around and he pulled the gown down so he could listen to my breathing by placing the stethoscope on my back and having me breath in and out. Then it was onto the table, slide down so your butt is at the edge and place feet in the 'stirrups'. He takes a look at your vagina, nothing is inserted. Then its onto your side so he check your butt, guess it was for hemorrhoids. Then you roll onto your back and he checks your stomach by pressing on it with his hands then he gropes your breasts checking for whatever. And that was pretty much it. You get off the table, straighten your 'robe', take your folder, and go back out to the other girls.Physical Exercises
We changed back into our underwear for this part. We lined up along one side of the room and did as they female told us to while the doctor watched. Um, memory is a little hazy so I might not remember everything, and the order we did them is probably off. But heres the ones I do remember.
(1) First was some hand movements. Elbows at 90 degrees so the arm below elbow is parallel with floor. Keeping the arms still with elbows against your body you do the following stuff: open and close your hand, move the hand up and down, side to side, rotate in a circular fashion, touch your fingers to your thumb, etc.
(2) Turn around to face the wall and you bend one knee so you can grab the ankle with your hand. Can't use the wall to balance yourself. Doc walks down the row looking at the bottom of your foot. And you do the same thing for the other side.
(3) Walk on your heels a few paces. And walk on your toes a few paces.
(4) Swing your arms like a windmill, start by making an 'A' over your head and swing them behind you. If your going too slow they'll tell you to go faster.
(5) Stand with feet together and arms pointed straight out in front of you. Hands flat, palms against eachother. As you swing your arms open (like the chick on titanic), you go up on your toes.
(6) Have arms straight up, like your reaching for the sky, then you bring them down to your sides quickly, but stop without slapping your sides.
(7) Starting with the right foot, stand on the left and lift your right foot so your knee is slightly bent. Rotate foot at the ankle. Then point toes up, down, clench toes like a 'fist'. Then you'll bend your knee some more and have your toes pointed up, ankle down. They'll have you kick towards the front but you don't touch the ground. So keep balancing on that left foot. Then you lift the right foot up again, toes still up, and kick towards the back, again not touching the ground.
And you do the same stuff with the other foot.
(8) You're gonna do some squats with your hands on your hips.
(9) Walk on your knees.
(10) One by one you duck walk. We could either have our hands on our hips or our knees. You're in the squatting position and while keeping your butt down you step, making sure to do heel to toe. You duck walk about five paces out, then back. You can't be 'cute' when you're doing the duck walk, so just get those knees apart and waddle across the floor in a most unflattering manner like everyone else, lol. And take your time.
(11) Back in the squatting position, hands on your hips, and thighs pressed together, one at a time you drop to your knees. You need both knees to slap the floor at the same time.
(12) Last thing we did was do a fast walk from one side of the room to the other. Most of the girls were fine. But with one girl and myself the lady pointed out to the doc that we walked with one shoulder lower than the other. The doc didn't seem worried about it though. So I 'passed' my physical.
Throw your clothes back on and wait for the doc to give you your folder. Our examination, from urine test to the exercises lasted from about 930am to 1pm due to all the waiting. We were then directed to the Medical desk to basically 'check out' of the medical area. Again waiting in line. When its your turn you give them your folder, scan finger. They go through some papers, etc. You are then directed to go back to your liaison. Since the females got done 5mins before lunch was over, the guy at the desk told me to get lunch first then see my liaison. So I rushed over to the cafeteria and got a turkey sub. Nothing great but better then nothing when your last meal was at 430am.
Liaison
The guy at the medical desk had handed me some papers before I'd gone to lunch so when I got to the liaison area I knocked on my branches office door. While waiting for one of the Marines I noticed the four guys I'd ridden with in the morning. Turns out they'd gotten done at 11am and had been waiting for me, lol.
One of the Marines took my papers and when it was my turn had me come in. Asked me some more questions about whether I'd done drugs, traffic violations, etc. I then had to sign some papers for the background check. One of the Marines gave me some papers and had me go to the main control desk as they wanted me to get fingerprinted. At the control desk they gave me back my folder and I was directed to the Processing area.
Fingerprints
In the processing area I had to wait with a few others. Luckily they were familiar faces. One female which had gone through the physical with me, and two males (twin brothers), one of which I'd talked to while waiting for the vision test. While waiting we passed the time chatting about the ASVAB, medical processing, and our enlistments. I think the brothers were going Navy, and the girls was probably Army.
Finally at some point the people were ready for us. One lady took me to a cubicle where she scanned my finger, brought up my file and asked me who I'd want my last paycheck and such to go to. She then had to check with another person about the fingerprinting.
Since I wasn't enlisting till March they were asked to 'hold' my fingerprints and wait to send them until I actually 'enlisted'.
I was then taken to a computer for fingerprinting. They had to redo several of my prints because of the scars from working outside.
Done
Once completed with that I had to go back to my liaison. Gave them the papers I was handed and they told me to call my recruiter as I was done. By then it was 240pm. In the waiting room of the Liaison section I noticed the guys were gone so I called my recruiter. He said the other Marine recruiter was there, so he called him and told him I was ready. Turns out he was waiting in the van with the rest of the guys. So he came back inside, got me, turned in my name tag at the Main Control Desk, and I was free!
I go back in a month to 'enlist' into the DEP. I believe thats when I do the job selection and first contract.
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