Drill Instructor School - East

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 Non-commissioned and Non-commissioned 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

Chief Instructor

COM: 843-228-3456

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."

Training Materials

DI School PT Program

DI School Teachbacks

Guidon Ditties

Sword Ditties

Coordinating instructions (i.e. welcome aboard, check-in instructions, etc) for Drill Instructor School will be sent to you via email approximately 30 days prior to your check-in date. These instructions are normally provided by the Drill Instructor School First Sergeant.

In preparation for this, it is vital that you ensure both your personal and work email addresses are current and up to date for a smooth transition to Drill Instructor School.