Mandatory REAL ID Base Access
Effective May 7, 2025, all guests and visitors 18 years and older accessing Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego should be prepared to present a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or an approved alternate form of identification (i.e. - U.S. passport) to enter the base, in accordance with federal law, MCO 5530.13, and the Department of Homeland Security’s REAL ID Act.
For more information: https://sandiego.usmc-mccs.org/real-id
| Time | Event | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 0630 | MCRD San Diego opens for graduation visitor access |
Gate 5 (Washington St.) |
| 0730-0830 | Color’s Ceremony Please be seated NLT 0730 |
Commanding General’s Bldg |
| 0830-0945 | Graduation Seating Please be seated NLT 0945 |
Shepherd Field |
| 1000-1130 | Graduation Ceremony | Shepherd Field |
Color’s Ceremony
Commanding General’s Headquarters
0730 – 0830
Please be seated NLT 0730
Optional event
Witness the daily raising of the flags aboard the Depot. Enjoy performances by Marine Band San Diego and the Color Guard. The ceremony will take place at the Commanding General’s Headquarters, located at the west end of the Parade Deck. Look for the building’s distinctive white turret.
Graduation Seating
Shepherd Field Parade Deck
0830 – 0945
Please be in your seats no later than 0945.
Graduation Ceremony
Shepherd Field Parade Deck
1000 – 1130
Graduation marks the end of a Marine’s time in boot camp. It is his final dismissal and the culmination of his Recruit training. The graduation ceremony includes the graduating Marines, their Drill Instructors and other key training personnel.
The distinguished personnel present are the Depot’s Commanding General, the parade reviewing officer and the parade staff. Highlighted performances include the Marine Band San Diego and the Depot Mascot; an English Bulldog – Lance Corporal Johnny R. Manuelito “Manny”. To learn more about the Depot Mascot: https://www.mcrdsd.marines.mil/About/Mascot-MCRDSD/
Marines line up by their platoon. If you know your Marine’s platoon number, look for signage near the Parade Deck with that number; your Marine will stand near there during the ceremony.