SAN DIEGO -- Recruits put on protective gear with intensity in their eyes similar to a boxer before a fight. Recruits were then paired by weight and given a stick with padded ends to fight one another. Pair by pair recruits ran into a small arena looking to hit their opponent in the head or knock them to the ground for a winning blow.
Despite the aggressiveness of the exercise both drill instructors and recruits of Co. I, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, saw a message in the training aboard Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Aug. 21
Sgt. Christian M. Hutson, drill instructor, Platoon 3203, Co. I said they’re learning how to apply Marine Corps Martial Arts techniques into a combat scenario.
“You never know when you can be in a hand to hand combat situation,” said Hutson. “The recruits now know techniques to use should that situation arise.”
Hutson added, the exercise also provides an opportunity to let out some built up tension.
“A lot of the kids look forward to pugil sticks. It’s a way to get out some stress.” said Hutson.
This was the third time Co. I recruits completed the exercise. For some it was an opportunity to finish the series with a winning record and for others it was a chance to make their drill instructors proud.
“I was hoping to make our drill instructors proud because they are away from their families just like we are away from ours,” said Recruit Jacob A.S. Baber, Plt. 3203. “They’re taking care of us like their kids, so I wanted to make them proud like a parent.”
Drill instructors stood overlooking the event similar to boxing trainers as they gave pointers to their recruits and shouted words of encouragement before the competitions started.
“You better win,” said a drill instructor. “Run straight at him,” said another.
For some recruits simply winning the exercise for themselves was motivation enough.
“I lost the first, won the second and I believe I’ll win the third one, said Recruit Cesar Alvarado, Plt. 3202, Co. I “Fundamentals are what make you successful. Yes strength helps but technique will be what helps you win.”
The wins and losses were recorded for each platoon’s third pugil stick exercise. The platoon with the most recruit wins will receive a pugil stick trophy.
One drill instructor believes strength will be big advantage for his platoon
“From lead series I think it will be my platoon that’ll win,” said Hutson with a proud smile. “I’m not trying to be bias but I think it’ll be our platoon because we have some very strong recruits.”