Marine Corps Bootcamp should be increased to 14 weeks, with the Crucible lasting a full 7 days, mirroring a similar intensity of “Hell Week” of NavySeals, and the minimum physical requirements of all recruits should be at least 15 pull-ups, 3 minute planks, and a 18 min 3-mile run. Bring back throwing grenades in Bootcamp. Equip all rifles with the VCOG 1-8 scopes.
All other branches should have minimum physical requirements be at least 10 pull-ups, 2 minute planks, and a 30 min 3-mile run.
I understand your concept, but SEAL course is designed to fail all but the best. They have enough applicants that they can afford such. Marines are a numerical need, and we don't need to destroy usable candidates. Build strength, develop endurance, train the winning mentality, and reward excellence. Then, add to this every year.
I was in the last Navy Boot Camp company to carry rifles. Last I heard boot camp had time outs. Time outs? I remember my first ship and during a General Quarters he told us. You are on a ship, in the middle of the ocean, you will fight as a team or you will die. There is no place to run, there is no place to hide. Your options right now, fight as a team or die. I always remembered that little speech.
I think your correct in making Boot Camp tougher. And I think all branches need a tough training. No firearms? Are we the Military or are we a Cub Scout Pack. Train for war, appreciate peace.
I have not been to boot camp since 1975 so I am sure a lot has changed since, I don’t remember having to do the things y’all are talking about here, I just wanted to say that.