Drill Instructor School - East

Drill Instructor School Logo
Recruit Training Regiment
Parris Island, South Carolina

Drill Instructor School is tasked with training the Marines that make Marines.

The mission of Drill Instructor School is to further develop the leadership, command presence, instructional ability, knowledge and physical condition of selected staff noncommissioned and noncommissioned officers to successfully perform the duties of a drill instructor.

The school not only prepares Marines for an arduous tour as a Marine corps drill instructor, but it additionally hones their skills as professional warriors. The school takes great pride in the fact that our graduates will not only shape the future of the Marine corps as they train future Marines, but when they return to the operating forces, they will be the Marines who will lead future efforts for our corps. 

Drill Instructor School was formally established in October 1952 and over the years has increased its length from four weeks to the current 11 weeks. Although the course length has changed, the mission of the school has remained constant.

The focus of the instruction and training established in the course syllabus of the 1950s and 1960s is very similar to the program of instruction the school uses today. Emphasis is placed on standard operating procedures for recruit training, drill, physical fitness, general military subjects and instructional techniques. Overall, leadership is the cornerstone of the course. Ensuring each student has a sound foundation of the basic leadership traits and principles coupled with solid command presence will allow them to set the proper example for their recruits. 

Director
COM: 843-228-3000

Assistant Director
COM: 843-228-2657

First Sergeant
COM: 843-228-3352

Administration Office
COM: 843-228-3158/2956

Osprey Inn
COM: 843-228-2744

"These recruits are entrusted to my care. I will train them to the best of my ability. I will develop them into smartly disciplined, physically fit, basically trained Marines, thoroughly indoctrinated in love of Corps and country. I will demand of them, and demonstrate by my own example, the highest standards of personal conduct, morality and professional skill."

Required Items

  • CAC & ink stick

  • TAD/Original Orders

  • DTS authorization for TAD marines

  • Command screening checklist

  • Financial worksheet

  • Medical record

  • Dental record

  • 2707/2808 forms

  • Copies of any unresolved administrative issues, e.g. awards, marriage certificates, divorce decrees, etc.

  • At least $100 cash for DI school shirts and other expenses

  • Entire sea bag issue (hint: wall locker inspection)

  • Travel/Per Diem/DTS/Orders

DTS

  • For DTS Per Diem $18.90 per day (government meal rate)

  • Lodging  $30.00 per day

IMPORTANT

  • Ensure you have a copy of your approved authorized Travel Orders/TAD Orders/TEMINS/PCA/PCS Orders.**

  • Admin Day 1 begins at 0800.
    Students who are flying, ensure you arrive no later than 1630 on Admin Day 1.
    If you are going to arrive later than that call 843-228-2956.

 
 

Drill Instructor School Leaders

Director, Drill Instructor School

Maj. Chad J. Menacher

Maj. Menacher assumed his current position as the Director of Drill Instructor school in July of 2024....

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Assistant Director, Drill Instructor School

Capt. Jessica V. Johnson

Capt Johnson was selected to serve as the Assistant Director of Drill Instructor school in March of 2024....

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First Sergeant, Drill Instructor School

1st Sgt. Thomas L. Mattingly

First Sergeant (1stSgt) Thomas L. Mattingly was selected to serve as the First Sergeant for Drill Instructor School in March 2024....

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Chief Instructor, Drill Instructor School

GySgt Hakgae M. Kim

In July 2024, Gunnery Sergeant Kim assumed his current billet as Chief Instructor of Drill Instructor School....

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Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island