School of Infantry – East: Every Marine's Next Challenge

Graduating from Marine Corps recruit training is a milestone achieved by only a select few. After weeks of rigorous discipline, physical conditioning, and personal transformation, new Marines earn the coveted Eagle, Globe, and Anchor. But the journey doesn't stop there. The next phase is the School of Infantry (SOI), where Marines sharpen the foundational combat skills that make every member of the Corps a rifleman.

What Is the School of Infantry (SOI)?

The School of Infantry is where enlisted Marines transition from recruits into combat-ready warriors. Every private reports to SOI:

• Infantry Marines (03XX MOS) train at the Infantry Training Battalion (ITB).
• All non-infantry Marines attend Marine Combat Training (MCT).

Where Is SOI-East?

SOI-East is located at Camp Geiger, North Carolina, a satellite installation of Camp Lejeune that falls under Marine Corps Air Station New River. Thousands of Marines pass through its gates each year to begin the next stage of their training.

Infantry Training Battalion (ITB)

For: Infantry Marines (03XX MOS) Duration: Approximately 13 weeks

Training includes:

• Marksmanship and weapons proficiency
• Patrolling and combat formations
• Land navigation
• Grenades and demolitions
• Crew-served weapons systems
• Tactical decision-making and field operations

Throughout ITB, combat instructors train, mentor, and evaluate Marines to prepare them for life in the Fleet Marine Force. Upon graduation, Marines report to their assigned units and begin infantry duty.

Marine Combat Training (MCT)

For: All non-infantry Marines Duration: Approximately 4 weeks

Training includes:

• Rifle marksmanship
• Patrolling and maneuver
• Basic combat tactics
• Field skills and formations

MCT ensures that every Marine — regardless of MOS — maintains rifleman qualifications and remains ready to fight when called upon.

Why SOI Matters

SOI challenges Marines to apply the discipline developed in recruit training to real combat skills. The training pace is demanding, standards are high, and the experience builds confidence — in themselves, in their abilities, and in their fellow Marines.

For Families and Supporters

Your Marine has finished recruit training, but is still in a high-intensity training environment. Field exercises, long training days, and limited liberty make phone access unpredictable. During this phase, letters often become the most reliable way to stay connected.

Every letter from home serves as a powerful reminder of the support behind your Marine's hard work.

Staying in Touch at SOI-East

Because much of the training takes place in the field, Marines may go several days without access to their phones. Families can continue sending letters and messages through Sandboxx. Mailing addresses for SOI-East can be found on the official unit webpage.

Useful Links:

• SOI-East Official Webpage
• SOI-East Facebook Page
• SOI-East Instagram Page

Checking In at SOI-East

Base Access: All Marines and visitors must present a REAL ID or a valid Common Access Card (CAC). Without proper identification, entry through the gate will be denied.

Uniform Requirements

Marines must report in Service Alpha uniform with a regulation haircut. Changing uniforms in the parking lot is strictly prohibited.

Important Note: Prescription Eyewear If your Marine requires glasses, they must arrive at SOI-East with Marine Corps-issued prescription eyewear. This is a non-negotiable requirement. Marines who forget their glasses risk being held from training for several weeks.

Required items in carry-on luggage:

• One set of Woodland camouflage utilities
• Service Record Book
• Military ID

MCT Check-In Information

• Check-in hours: 0700–1200 on the date listed in orders
• Location: Building G540
• Transportation: Visitor Control Center → shuttle
• Note: Marines awaiting MCT are not permitted to book their own hotel accommodations; lodging will be arranged by the command upon arrival

Contact Numbers:

• MCT Officer of the Day (OOD): 910-376-5668
• Administrative Support Center (ASC): 910-449-2244

ITB Check-In Information

• Check-in deadline: No later than 1200 on the date listed in orders
• Location: Building G702

Contact Numbers:

• ITB Officer of the Day (OOD): 910-238-9833
• Administrative Support Center (ASC): 910-449-2244

Transportation Information

By Bus

• The bus station is approximately 4 miles from Camp Geiger
• Estimated taxi fare: $20–$30
• Marines must be in Service Alpha uniform or change before leaving the station
• Keep all receipts for reimbursement

By Air

• Albert J. Ellis Airport (OAJ) is approximately 16 miles from Camp Geiger
• Estimated taxi fare: $35–$45
• Marines must be in Service Alpha uniform or change before leaving the airport
• Share taxis with other Marines whenever possible to split costs

In the Event of Travel Delays

Any flight delays, bus delays, or transportation issues must be reported to the battalion immediately.

During Business Hours (0730–1630):

• Administrative Support Center (ASC): 910-449-2244

After Hours, Weekends, and Holidays:

• SOI-East OOD (Office): 910-449-0179
• SOI-East OOD (Cell): 910-376-5485

Recommended Packing List

• All uniforms issued during recruit training
• Marine Corps-issued prescription eyewear (mandatory)
• One set of civilian clothes
• Cell phone (for accessing training materials and study resources)
• Cash or debit card (a minimum of $200 is recommended)

Final Thoughts

The School of Infantry is a challenging and deeply meaningful chapter in every Marine's journey. It builds confidence, resilience, and the combat skills they will rely on throughout their entire career. For families, your support remains essential during this high-tempo training phase. Come prepared, stay encouraging, and your Marine will be ready for the even greater challenges that lie ahead.

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