Marine Corps Base, Hawaii. (April 13, 2023): In this photo by Corporal Clayton Baker, Marines carry simulated casualties to safety in a combat evacuation drill during the Corporals Course, a program to teach non-commissioned officers the skills needed to become small unit leaders.

Created in 2009, the Corporals Course focuses on the backbone of the Marine Corps, the non-commissioned officer (NCO). Veteran instructors share their firsthand accounts of leading Marines which helps students relate to their own life experiences. This two-week program teaches basic infantry tactics, communications, land navigation, and military drill and ceremony. The goal is to build a platform for young students to explore the world of the NCO and to learn how to successfully train and lead Marines in combat.

The skills attained at the Corporals Course return to the workplace which improves the core leadership of the entire unit. Eventually, passing the Corporals Course will be a requirement for promotion.